Dale Caviness is proof it’s never too late to start a new career.
“I wanted something different,” he said.
The 61-year-old Air Force veteran spent decades as a computer programmer. But now he’s learning how to frame walls, wire lighting fixtures, and solder copper pipes.
“This allows me to learn something different and hopefully get a job in doing something that I would like to do in building things and being creative in different ways than I was being before.” he said.
As a veteran, Caviness gets a preferred spot in classes at CareerSource Tampa Bay.
Hundreds of vets have come through the programs for construction, plumping, carpentry and manufacturing.
David Miller is one of the teachers.
“I retired a couple years ago. Kind of got bored with boating and fishing and golfing and doing all those things. And this is some way I can give back to the industries that I worked in over time,” said Miller.
Last week two veterans graduated the welding program here and they went right to work. Both starting new jobs first thing Monday morning.
“Makes you feel good. Makes you feel like you are contributing back to society. That you are helping the people that have helped us all along the way,” said Miller.
Not only do the veterans learn the skills for new careers, but there is all kinds of help to get the jobs. From resume review to referrals. Employers even come here to personally recruit.
Caviness has a week until he finishes the program, but before he goes he’ll help dry wall a frame.
“Having a project that you can look at and be proud of, you built that!,” he said.
For more information visit the CareerSource Tampa Bay website.
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