Grit and Growth:
Success Stories

For Eric Feresee and Quimerius Shelby, senior year at Raymond High School was about more than just graduation. It became the year they discovered not only what they wanted to do—but who they wanted to become.

The two friends were part of a pioneering group of high school students who enrolled in the Step Up training program, designed to help young people gain real-world skills and explore career opportunities. The program combines short-term technical training with paid internships, preparing students for immediate employment or advanced education in high-demand industries.

Eric and Quimerius chose to complete the Basic Manufacturing Skills training offered through Hinds Community College. The eight-week, non-credit course introduces students to the fundamentals of modern manufacturing—blueprint reading, CPR/First Aid, OSHA safety training, forklift operation, and more. Participants receive a $10/hour training stipend and credentials that open doors to high-demand jobs.

More Than a Certification

But for Eric and Quimerius, it wasn’t just about the certifications. It was about connection.

“You think you're just going to learn stuff,” Eric said. “But really, you're trying to figure out where you belong.”

Both students admitted to feeling unsure at first—intimidated by a new environment, unfamiliar faces, and the high expectations of the program. But they weren’t alone. Their instructor, Bill Lackey, brought passion, patience, and a deep commitment to student success.

“He’s a great teacher—he taught us and really cared,” Quimerius said. “He helped us understand things step by step, especially when it got hard. He made sure we didn’t give up on ourselves.”

And their coach, William Martin, brought something even more rare: unwavering belief. “He didn’t just show us where to go,” said Quimerius. “He walked with us. He talked with us. Every trip, every class—he made sure we knew we could do this.”

A Coach Who Makes a Difference

Martin, a career coach at Raymond High School, saw something early in both students. “From day one, they stood out,” he said. “Attitude. Punctuality. Work ethic. They had all the traits we’re looking for in the next generation of skilled workers.”

But it wasn’t just about performance. Martin invested time. He organized a tour of Nissan, where the students got their first real look at the world of advanced manufacturing. He made sure they understood the opportunities that existed beyond the classroom. He checked in after challenging days, offering encouragement when it mattered most. And he helped them envision what their futures could look like during a visit to McNeely Plastics—where both students will intern this summer.

He was there when they began to believe in themselves.

Leadership Lessons and Long-Term Plans

For Eric, who plans to attend Hinds Community College and pursue an advanced manufacturing career path, the training sparked more than technical skill.

“We worked in teams to design efficient processes—real problem-solving. It taught me how to lead, how to communicate, and how to see the big picture.”

Quimerius, equally ambitious, has mapped out a clear plan: enroll at Jackson State University, join ROTC, serve in the military, and eventually connect his service experience to a meaningful civilian career.

“I didn’t even know this was a path. Now I know I can walk it—and maybe build and expand it for someone else that comes through Raymond High School after me.”

The Heart of Workforce Development

Eric and Quimerius’ journey reflects the true heart of workforce development: helping students build real-world skills, discover meaningful career paths, and find a sense of purpose and belonging.

This success is made possible through the hands-on training provided by Hinds Community College, the unwavering mentorship of Coach Martin, and a supportive high school environment at Raymond High School that fosters growth, readiness, and opportunity.

As Coach Martin put it:

“You give students opportunity, you give them exposure—and they will rise. You just have to believe in them first.”

Thanks to him—and the team behind them—they did.