By The Voices of I Am New Orleans audio series amplifies the ideas, leadership and stories of local youth. Produced in partnership with Be Loud Studios, the series highlights the work of W.K. Kellogg Foundation grantees and the young people who are stepping up to create a stronger, more vibrant future for New Orleans.
Episode 6: Getting My Hands Dirty
Listeners meet Mikayla and Dwayne, two students from Louisiana Green Corps who share how hands-on training has helped them build essential skills, explore new career paths, and deepen their commitment to improving their communities.
They’re joined by Louisiana (LA) Green Corps Executive Director, Ryan Mattingly, who describes how the organization is creating pathways for young adults into growing fields like green infrastructure, conservation, and sustainable construction. LA Green Corps prepares its students for careers with purpose—offering real-world experience, industry certifications, and the confidence to pursue their goals.
Inspired by his experience at LA Green Corps, Dwayne now aspires to explore a career as a solar electrician.
“What made me join Louisiana Green Corps was a personal journey toward self-development,” said Dwayne, reflecting on how the program helped him build the skills needed to enter the workforce. “It’s helped me become more confident, assertive, and professional because it encourages growth in every part of the experience.”
Why It Matters
LA Green Corps was launched after Hurricane Katrina to ensure that local residents—especially young people—could access recovery opportunities in a sustainable and equitable way. Since then, it has grown into a dynamic workforce development program, supporting young adults as they pursue personal growth and long-term success in emerging green industries.
The outcomes speak for themselves:
- 91% of graduates have secured employment
- 97% have earned their National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) certification
- 89% have improved their Adult Basic Education (TABE) scores
Through education, mentorship and meaningful work, LA Green Corps is not only preparing its students for jobs—it’s preparing them to shape the future of their communities.
Listen In
Visit iamneworleansvoices.com/listen to hear Episode 6 and learn more about how LA Green Corps is helping young people roll up their sleeves, gain hands-on experience and step confidently into careers that benefit both people and the planet.
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