Fresno EOC Local Conservation Corps Tests Your Mental Toughness

The Mental Toughness Orientation includes workplace health and safety guidelines to explain potential job hazards. Corpsmembers may be required to wear goggles, gloves, masks, long sleeve shirts, pants, boots, and other protective gear at times, all of which are provided by LCC. Candidates can also learn about the LCC’s education component. Anyone who has not finished high school is required to attend the on-site YouthBuild Charter School of California (YCSC) to earn their diploma; meanwhile, high school graduates are encouraged to enroll in local college classes. The education and job training are free of charge, and all corpsmembers enrolled in the LCC will be paid while they are training out in the field, but not for time spent in the classroom.

Roberto Maciera, the Senior Supervisor in the Public Lands Division, says the LCC training can be intense, but he told corpsmember candidates that program leaders go above and beyond to help corpsmembers succeed. “We’re the ferry to move you from here—to where you want to be. We’re one of those agencies that want you to succeed. If you have experience and confidence in your abilities when looking for a job or promotion, you will have the upper hand. So, don’t be afraid to ask us questions. Everybody was new at something at one time.”

The final day of the Mental Toughness orientation involves interviews. Elisa Sgambellone, Assistant Director of the Local Conservation Corps, says, “There is a two-person panel comprised of LCC staff who ask the candidates questions about what they’ve learned during the orientation. Once they pass the interview, they are invited to the New Enrollment Orientation, which takes place the following day.” Ahijah was successful in his interview and is working to complete his enrollment documents. He is on track to become a corpsmember in the YouthBuild Construction program.

Mental Toughness Orientation is typically held twice a month, with the next two sessions scheduled for March 8 and March 22. Enrollees must be at least 18 years of age. Click here for more information on what it takes to enroll.