Alani Nepe has hopes of a career as a carpenter or a chef. Ashlee Vito is hoping to get into roadwork.
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The two Canobolas Rural Technology High students were among Orange's first 12 teenagers to graduate on Wednesday under the Fit For Work scheme aimed at getting them job ready.
Most of them have received a Fit for Work Certification for retail work, a White Card for construction industry work and first aid and CPR certification.
Alani said the 10-week program at the Orange PCYC and developed by NSW Police, had built up her skills.
"I developed better communication skills, teams skills and independence skills," she said.
"Instead of sitting at home and doing nothing I can get out to look for work."
Ashlee said he had developed communication skills and was now keen to finish at school and get a job.
The other graduates were: Jye Bargwanna, Declan Borton, Harrison Greer, Caleb Gunderson Hibberson, Lucas Meyers, Tyson Pearce, Shalirah Reid, Kyara Tillman, Aaliyah Tumai and Rhiannon Tumai.
PCYC Youth Case manager Senior Constable Helen Baker said it was a proud day for the graduates.
"For some this will be the first certificate they have ever received," she said.
"It has been a long road but we have made it. It has been a full-on 10 weeks."
Senior Constable Baker was assisted by youth worker Kaitlin Neuling-Lawlor and trainer and assessor Glen Brewster in mentoring the students on work and life skills.
Member for Orange Phil Donato encouraged the students to grab the opportunity and work hard to secure jobs.
"You never stop learning, I learn every day," he said.
"It's all about empowerment, building yourself up, promoting yourself out there and giving yourself opportunities.
"I know the Commissioner of Police, Mick Fuller, is very passionate about this program. This will be the first of many that will come through.
"University is not for everyone, study is not for everyone, but it is important to be able to get some qualifications, get a foot in the door, start working, and you never know what the future can hold."
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