Former Drug Trafficker Fulfills Potential; Becomes a Build Maintenance Technician

Malcolm B. is a 35 year old, single, father of three children one son and two daughters.  Growing up on the Southside of Chicago, Malcolm attended Chicago Vocational High School up until he dropped out in the 11th grade because of his gang affiliation. He was convicted of possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes by the U.S. District Courts and he was sentenced to 120 months.  He served a total of 8 years in the Federal Bureau of Prison and was released from federal custody.  During his time in prison he attained his General Education Diploma (GED). 

He came to the Chicago Urban League through then Urban Reentry Jobs Program. During his engagement with the Chicago Urban League he completed the 10 day “Success Strategy” pre-employment program and, 24 plus hours of mentoring. Malcolm wanted to acquire Welding Certification in order to qualify for a meaningful position in manufacturing or as Welder.

Mario has been incarceration for 8 years and he has never worked a permanent legal job before. He did not have a resume with professional experience, and he was concerned about getting a job that he would like to do. But, since he has attended the “Success Strategies” job preparedness workshop, he has a functional resume and has strengthened his interviewing and presentation skills.

He also obtained his Complex Welding Certification that included Scaffolding Safety Training, and 10-hours Construction Safety and Health from Kennedy-King College. He is the only participant to complete this training and graduate with high honors from the Welding program.  

Since completing his training he has become Building Maintenance Technician and is a card-carrying member of the 701 Machinist Union earning $ 20.11 an hour.

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