Casie Alexander is a March 2003 graduate of the Construction Trades Prep program. Supported by the Women's Bureau and based in New York City, Construction Trades Prep provides extensive job readiness training for working women interested in a career in the trades. A native New Yorker, Casie attended college on an athletic scholarship and received her Bachelor's degree in criminal justice. Her work experience remained within the criminal justice field, including three years with the United States Secret Service. After returning to New York, Casie decided she needed a change." I began making a living, or trying to, using the skills I have already and have found it very difficult due to the fact that I am independent. I made contact with NEW and was given the opportunity to take a step closer to stable employment within a union." Casie graduated at the top of her class, winning the coveted "Golden Hammer Award," a staff-elected honor that signifies excellence in carpentry and leadership. "I love working with my hands. I've been doing this kind of work for many, many years for myself. I really enjoy the variety, the constant learning and the reality and feeling of accomplishment." Casie is currently employed as a first year apprentice with the Empire State Carpenters on Long Island, where she is attending training classes and working steadily.

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