Stephon’s New Horizon: From Military Service to the Open Seas

When 24-year-old Stephon approached our Eckerd Connects’ Workforce Development team, he was intent on furthering his civilian career after having honorably served in the military.

Growing up in Jacksonville, Florida, Stephon faced numerous hardships and challenges. Raised by a single mother, he developed a deep determination to support and care for her. Stephon loved playing football throughout his life leading up to high school. But he chose to abandon the sport when a teacher told him he would ‘never amount to anything.’ This led to getting involved with the wrong crowd, and that resulted in trouble.

By the end of high school, Stephon made an important decision to join the military.  He served two years in the U.S. Army as a Sergeant in Airborne Infantry stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, followed by another two years at Fort Benning, Georgia, as an aviation fueler.

After being honorably discharged, Stephon returned to Jacksonville to restart his civilian life. He worked as a line service technician, towing private jets for a fixed-base operator (FBO). After about two years, he felt the desire to pursue further training, which led him to Eckerd Connects Workforce Development to learn to become a Merchant Seaman.  This resilient young man completed his training in August 2024 and is now working towards getting onto a maritime vessel while maintaining his job with the FBO.

With his dedication and commitment, we will be excited to follow Stephon’s career as he moves towards a brighter future.