Page 10 - Luke AFB Thunderbolt, August 2021

10 August 2021 News http://www.luke.af.mil
Thunderbolt
www.aerotechnews.com/lukeafb

Luke AFB supports Project SEARCH, interns with disabilities

by Staff Sgt. 56th Force Support Squadron Airman & Falcon Dunes Golf Course, 56th Medical
CoLLeTTe BRookS Family Readiness Center flight chief. “We Group pharmacy, Bryant Fitness Center
took a look at the program and determined and the Airman’s Attic.
56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
we had credible places around base that Not only does this program offer interns
Luke Air Force Base’s partnership with could offer the support and work environ- the unique opportunity to increase their
Western Maricopa Education Center Proj- ment that these young people could not probability of securing meaningful and
ect SEARCH provides community support only benefit from, but grow into.” competitive employment, but they gain an
through internship opportunities focused McCarty added that the goal of the outlet to generate profound connections
on professional development, personal program is to take a person who may with Luke AFB members.
growth and technical skill enhancement. not otherwise have the chance to work While the interns are developing their
The nine-month program offers high and equip them with tools they need to newfound skills, Luke AFB mentors have
school graduates, ages 18-26, with signifi- enhance their self-sustaining capabilities. a unique opportunity to achieve something
cant disabilities, an immersive experience Through this career-focused program, in- just as special.
where they work side-by-side with Luke terns expand various skill sets such as com- “With this program, there’s actually an
Airmen to increase their knowledge and munication, socialization, and teamwork, intrinsic giveback to the person actually
marketable job skills set. while simultaneously increasing their giving,” said McCarty. “We benefit in a
As Luke prepares for the internship’s confidence and hands-on work experience. very personal and real way as people, by
fourth iteration in August — which will “Project SEARCH is an international simply helping other people. The cohesion
pair eight interns with nine work centers program model empowering young adults and partnership built through Project
— Dennis Parker, Project SEARCH intern, with significant disabilities to make a SEARCH allows us to see a much broader
who completed the program in May, said successful transition from school to adult mission.”
it was an incredible experience that gave life,” said Tiffany MacKenzie, West-MEC McCarty explained that the program Courtesy photo
him an opportunity for self-improvement. Project SEARCH instructor. “Participants not only affects Luke AFB, but Glendale Dennis Parker, Project SEARCH intern,
“My favorite part about working on base will be taught relevant, marketable skills and the greater Phoenix area, due to washes a car at the Auto Hobby shop,
was getting to know my mentors and the while immersed in the working world, Project SEARCH members having the April 13, at Luke Air Force Base. Proj-
Airmen,” said Parker. “I also enjoy that I which increases their sense of responsibil- ability to obtain employment on and off ect SEARCH is a nine-month program,
have learned how to be a better employee, ity and overall quality of life.” base post-graduation. which offers high school graduates with
workplace performer, and workplace con- The interns are able to build their overall Additionally, through the program, significant disabilities the opportunity to
flict solver.” confidence, while simultaneously acquir- Parker learned how to perform banquet work side-by-side with Luke AFB Airmen
“About three years ago the Project ing valuable employment skills through setup at Club Five Six, which ties directly to increase their marketable job skills.
SEARCH team presented this program real work experiences. Participants have to his goal of gaining employment within The Luke AFB and Project SEARCH part-
to myself and the 56th Mission Support interned at various areas around base to the service industry. nership offers a unique opportunity for
Group commander (at that time), Col. include Vehicle Maintenance, Airman & Project SEARCH mentors and mentees to
Robert Sylvester,” said James McCarty, Family Readiness Center, Club Five Six, See SeARCh, Page 12 enhance their teamwork and partnership.

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