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Your past doesn't define your future.
That's what Cha Jones and Reno Velkoff have learned at TCAT Knoxville. Both convicted felons, they're paving a new path forward with skills they once thought were out of reach.
"Never in our life did we think that we were both going to be in college at the same time, let alone go to college," said Jones. "But I'm blessed to have my uncle in my life that's also doing the same thing as me, and I'm very proud of him."
Jones is studying pipefitting, working on his OSHA and Snap-On certifications. He credits his amazing teachers, Jennifer Cozart and Becky Russell, for guiding him in the right direction.
"I want to have the American dream," Jones said. "To go to work, go to my son's ball games, to be there for my family and not be apart from them, to be in jail or to be anywhere other than to be with my family. And that's what I want to do. I want to be a better role model for them."
Velkoff just completed his Heavy Equipment Operator training with Tim Blais. He said it's not just about learning a trade, he's learned how to communicate effectively and carry himself professionally in any setting. All of these lessons are helping him build a better version of himself.
"In a year from now, I want to look at my goals and see that I moved significantly forward instead of just spun my wheels," said Velkoff. "I want to progress, progress in life. It seems like for a long time that ain't what I was doing, and now that I see those opportunities, it opens a whole new world... I'm gonna get somewhere in life."
Both Jones and Velkoff said that TCAT Knoxville has been a beacon of hope; not just for them but anyone who wants more out of life and isn't sure how to get there. They're grateful for the support and encouragement they've found on campus and wish others in their situation knew that the same opportunity is available to them.
"Anybody can [come to TCAT Knoxville], it does not matter if you've been a felon," said Jones. "They help you every step of the way. Everybody's a blessing. Everybody's great to you. They teach you everything. And they don't look at your past. They look at the present, that you're trying to help yourself."
