Jobs program leads BGM graduate to career in diesel mechanics

BROOKLYN — Logan Findlay of rural Brooklyn will attend Kirkwood Community College in the fall to study diesel mechanics, thanks in part to Manatts’ Internal Scholarship Program, a Registered Apprentice Program through the State of Iowa and a careers class at BGM High School.

Findlay, the son of Brett and Stephanie Findlay who graduated in May, has always been interested in mechanics and working on automobiles. During his senior year at BGM, he took part in a careers program called Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates, taught by Deb Hunt.

In its first year at BGM, the program’s purpose is to help students prepare for life after high school.

Iowa is one of 35 states that offers the jobs program on the high school level. The program has been available in Iowa for 25 years and in the United States since 1980.

About 30 BGM high school students currently take part in the iJAG program.

Students in the class learn how to complete job applications and prepare professional resumes. They participate in mock interviews and take part in job shadowing opportunities and career assessments to learn where their strengths lie.

Hunt invites area guest speakers to attend iJAG classes throughout the school year to talk about various jobs available at their workplaces.

In the fall, Sue Esther and Adela Fragoso spoke to the iJAG students about the variety of career choices Manatts has to offer.

“One of the opportunities they spoke about was a paid internship for seniors who had half day schedules,” said Hunt.

It didn’t take Findlay long to realize what this internship could do for him. He was already attending Marshalltown Community College in Grinnell, and an apprenticeship at Manatts was the direction he wanted to take his life.

“I started out in auto mechanics [at MCC] and realized I wanted something bigger with more power,” said Findlay.

He spent the second semester of his senior year as an intern in the equipment shop at Manatts.

“His decision, I believe, speaks very highly of this young man’s work ethic and dedication to a goal,” said Hunt.

“In January, he began working at Manatts in the mornings and finishing up his high school classes and two college classes in the afternoons,” said Hunt. “Not an easy senior semester.”

“Mrs. Hunt knew I like working on vehicles, and she worked on setting up the opportunity to intern at Manatts to see if it was something I liked,” said Findlay.

“She cares about her students and works hard to help them succeed.”

On April 17, Findlay and his family traveled to Des Moines where he signed an Iowa Skilled Trades Letter of Intent, which states that he fully intends to promote the Skilled Trades in all aspects.

Hunt said that Manatts will cover the cost of Findlay’s college education, his books, tools and a tool chest. And while at Kirkwood, Findlay will work for one of Manatts’ sister companies in the Cedar Rapids area while completing his degree.

Once Findlay completes the two-year diesel mechanics course at Kirkwood in May 2026, he will have earned an associate of applied science degree. He will then return to Brooklyn and work full-time as a diesel mechanic for Manatts.

“We are deeply committed to fostering the next generation of skilled professionals through our partnership with Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates,” said Brain Manatt, President of Manatts.

“We look forward to witnessing the positive impact Logan will have on our team and the broader field. Together, with iJAG, we are not just building futures but also strengthening our industry for years to come.”

Teaching excellence

Hunt has been a teacher for 10 years. The 2023-24 school year was her first at BGM. Prior to that, she spent nine years at the alternative school in Ottumwa.

Raquel Carper, a sophomore at BGM last year, took part in the iJAG program because she wanted to test the waters and learn about different jobs and programs available.

“I am interested in food science and baking,” Carper said. “It’s helping me a lot. Mrs. Hunt is a great teacher.”

Heidi Kirkpatrick, a junior at BGM last year, said her interests are in the health care field and possibly in the medical field in the military.

“I completed a job shadow at UnityPoint Grinnell Regional and toured the hospital,” she said. “I also attended a special session to learn about opportunities at Grinnell College.”

“These are just ideas for the students,” said Hunt of the iJAG program.

“This class is for our future,” said Kirkpatrick.

“She (Mrs. Hunt) helps us look through and learn about all of our options,” added Carper.

“I’m glad to have the opportunity to stay local and work for a great company,” said Findlay.