A College & Careers field trip to explore job options when he was a freshman at Christel House Indianapolis has turned into a successful vocational opportunity for Chris Zuniga, a Class of 2020 graduate.
That field trip made an impression. “They spoke about careers, and how to get in – choosing a trade, and that stuck with me,” says Chris. After graduating, Kara Moreland, Christel House College & Careers Administrator recommended Chris enroll in The Indiana Plan, a recruitment and training program that works to expand construction apprenticeships. “It’s a two-week program that introduces you to all the trades,” says Chris. He was accepted into the program. Only two days into the course, Chris had made such a positive impression – he was offered a full-time job! He’s now a first- year carpenter’s apprentice for Weddle Brothers, a major construction company. Chris is paired with a journeyman, “a certified carpenter that brings the blueprints to life,” he says. Chris is learning – and enjoying it. “It’s a four-year training program,” he says. “When you finish the apprenticeship, you graduate with an associate’s degree in Applied Science from Ivy Tech.” Chris is grateful for the connections he’s made at Christel House. “It’s not a typical high school – it’s a small community,” he says. “You get to know everybody. It allows you to build relationships which is great for the future.”
Chris was a co-host of the 2021 Virtual Walk Around the Christel House World opening ceremonies. Watch him here.