Alex James

Alex James admits he wasn’t living up to his full potential. But, he did not understand that his mother wanted him to live his best life. James found an opportunity to turn his life around and a career pathway in advanced manufacturing at Job Corps.

Jobs Corps is a career and technical training program for students 16 to 24 years old. James’ grandmother was a graduate of the Job Corps program. His mother, who knew about the program, encouraged her son to enroll and live on campus.

“My mom was serious, yet so supportive,” said James, a process Technician at Johnson and Johnson Vision (J&J Vision), the maker of ACUVUE Brand Contact Lenses. The company’s contact lenses are available in 100 countries.

James is one of the first participants to graduate from the J&J Vision partnership program at the Jobs Corps Center. The global lens manufacturer, headquartered in Jacksonville, invested in manufacturing technology training at Job Corps. J&J Vision placed state-of-the-art equipment at the center and provides the necessary support and mentors to make the program successful.

While at the Jobs Corps, James earned a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) certification with plans to go into the heating and cooling industry. Just days after earning his HVAC certification, he learned about the new J&J Vision advanced manufacturing program. He was intrigued by the opportunity, so he stayed on at the Job Corps and enrolled in the program.

“There is a tremendous opportunity and job security in the advanced manufacturing field,” James said.

After graduating from the program, James started working at J&J Vision in March 2022. As a process technician, he is responsible for diagnosing problems with machines, completing audits and performing inspections.

“Each day is different – I never know what to expect,” James said. “There are some days where you’re troubleshooting and diagnostic skills come into play.”

James enjoys his work and likes that his job requires him to draw upon his critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

James said, “This program has brought out the best in me.”

At one time, James did not envision a career in advanced manufacturing. Now, he is working to earn certifications that will demonstrate his knowledge and understanding of the core competencies of manufacturing production. He is also looking at future industry training advancement opportunities.

“At Johnson & Johnson Vision, I am helping produce products that make life better,” James said. “I see myself growing and taking on more responsibility at this company.”

The Jacksonville Jobs Corp Center offers work-based learning programs in 10 trades. The programs offer on-the-job training and are available at no cost. James is grateful for the Jobs Corps/J&J Vision partnership, his mother’s support and his faith in God.

“The program changed me in a multitude of ways,” James said. “I’ve become more focused on my future and much more determined as a result of the success I’ve gained from my time being in the program.”