In October of 2013, Wyatt Vele’s life underwent a big change when he enrolled at Tongue Point Job Corps Center in Oregon.
“My first day at Tongue Point [Job Corps] was a bit of a culture shock, but I told myself I just have to conquer the program,” Wyatt said. Little did he know that this day would set the stage for a remarkable journey leading to his current success and position as a commissioned officer in the United States Navy.
Opting for the Seamanship training program after growing up near the ocean in Southern California, Wyatt entered with a personal commitment to leave no opportunity unexplored. The program introduced him to a team of dedicated professionals whose mentorship became instrumental in shaping Wyatt’s path toward individual and professional excellence.
“With their help, Job Corps really helped me see within myself that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to,” Wyatt said.
The Seamanship training program not only provided Wyatt with the knowledge necessary to enter the maritime industry as an able-bodied seaman and qualified member of the Engine Department but also honed his skills through various other learning opportunities at Tongue Point Job Corps Center. These initiatives focused on career growth, resume support and job interview practice, contributing to Wyatt’s well-rounded development.
"With their help, Job Corps really helped me see within myself that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to."
The connections Wyatt made during his time at Job Corps led to an incredible opportunity with the Columbia River Bar Pilots, where Wyatt worked alongside industry leaders in challenging weather conditions. This experience ignited a deeper understanding of his training and fueled his ambition to further his education. Wyatt immediately decided to pursue Advanced Seamanship training at Job Corps and enrolled in local community college classes while living on Tongue Point’s campus.
Wyatt then continued his education at Texas A&M, graduating with high honors in four years and subsequently being commissioned into the U.S. Navy as an Ensign. Today he leads 11 sailors across two divisions, manages five warfare programs, and is responsible for the safe navigation and ship handling of a commissioned warship.
In 2023, Wyatt was honored with the Job Corps Hall of Fame award, recognizing him as an outstanding graduate of the program. He was nominated by his former instructors at Job Corps, which is a testament to his infectious spirit and enormous accomplishment.
Reflecting on his journey, Wyatt’s advice to current students is this: “Anything you want in life, in regard to your career and what you’re aspiring to be, it is all achievable.”