Sam King AmeriCorps Spotlight-expand my knowledge of a career

Sam dreams of having a fulfilling and successful career in carpentry, a field that not only allows him to work with his hands but also gives him the opportunity to create lasting structures that can benefit his community. He recently discovered an AmeriCorps service position with Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity, which he views as a valuable stepping stone toward gaining practical experience and honing his skills in carpentry. This position represents much more than just a job for Sam; it is a chance to immerse himself in a hands-on learning environment where he can apply his passion for building and construction. Over the course of the summer, Sam is committed to completing 300 hours of service, during which he will be actively involved in building and repairing homes for families within the Waterloo area.

Each day on the job presents Sam with new opportunities to expand his knowledge and skill set. He is learning to master various power tools, which are essential for any carpenter, and he is gaining hands-on experience with crucial tasks such as installing drywall, framing, and even landscaping. The variety of projects keeps him engaged and excited, as every day brings different challenges and learning experiences. When asked what he enjoys most about his time working at Habitat for Humanity, Sam shared his thoughts:

"I like that I get to learn and experience new things every day and expand my knowledge of a career I'm interested in pursuing. I like that everybody gets along and works together on everything. I also like that the company is faith based."

Upon completing his term of service, Sam will be awarded an AmeriCorps education award, which he plans to utilize at Hawkeye Community College Carpentry Apprenticeship Program. This educational opportunity will allow him to further pursue his carpentry path, equipping him with the advanced skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the field

If you are interested in a position like Sam's, check out our application page for fall AmeriCorps programming.