Since 1992
Print and digital marketing
PHOTO: The Culinary Arts Center at Loring Job Corps. (Loring Job Corps photo)
PRESQUE ISLE – Taylor Eastman graduated from Maine School Administrative District 59 Adult Ed in 2018, and was attending college online during the COVID pandemic, when she decided she wanted something more.
Eastman, 22, of Turner, enrolled in the Loring Job Corps Center’s Culinary Arts Program, graduating this year. She’s now continuing her training in the Advanced Baking Program at the Penobscot Job Corps Center, and encouraging other young women to take on challenges for a better life.
Eastman had found it hard to juggle working and online college during the COVID pandemic. She decided to invest in herself by enrolling in the Job Corps culinary arts program. She soon found it made a positive impact not only on her career goals, but her outlook.
“I want other young women to know that you have the potential for great things,” she said. “The [Job Corps] program can help you realize your value, while getting you the training for a successful career.”
Her drive encouraged and motivated her to set the example every day for herself and others. She became a leader in her culinary arts trade, as well as an executive member of the Student Government Association. Her continued confidence has become contagious to her peers and her willingness to help others succeed at meeting their goals, has made her a role model, her instructors said.
Eastman said her love for cooking came from her mother, as well as positive encouragement by her instructor, chef Katie Keefe.
“This young lady is by far, a driven individual, with a willingness to step up, take charge, while also being humble in knowing that you can learn from everyone,” Keefe said.
Taylor’s long-term goals after completing the Advanced Baking Program at the Penobscot Job Corps Center is to one day open up her own café, and share with others her joy of the culinary profession.
