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Avon man crafts new career for new year at Carl Sandburg College

Jason Kepple is reinventing himself in 2016 at Carl Sandburg College in Galesburg, Illinois. “I just don’t want to have to work in a factory my whol...

Jason Kepple is reinventing himself in 2016 at Carl Sandburg College in Galesburg, Illinois.

"I just don't want to have to work in a factory my whole life," he said.

So, at age 33, he's trading a job building windows in Macomb for a classroom studying computer windows.

"I really like computers, and I wanted to get into technology," he said.  "The only way I could do that is by going back to school."

As a single parent, he's also building a better life for himself and daughter Tristen, 12.

"It was pretty hard, especially having to take care of my daughter," he continued.  "But she was a big help.  She did her own laundry and helped out around the house.  She's proud of my accomplishments, too."

Later this year, he'll receive an Associate's Degree in the Information and Computer Technology program.

"I'm sure there were probably late nights and sleepless nights, knowing he had to work and get so much done," said Associate Dean Diana Higgins.

Going back to school after more than a decade isn't easy, but Jason is motivated to make the most of his time at Carl Sandburg College.

The once-struggling student now prospers in the program.

A flexible schedule lets him juggle online and classroom assignments with work and family needs.

"He was having to raise his daughter and still get grades," Higgins said.  "His grades are there. They're awesome."

This popular program places students with internships -- and sometimes jobs -- before they graduate.

That's the case with Jason.

He works full time at Spoon River Valley High School while he finishes up.

"The fact that we are getting employment quickly is a great success story all the way around," Higgins said.

And after embracing a lot of changes, Jason Kepple is making his dreams come true.

"I just hope it will help me keep being able to learn more," he concluded.  "Be able to have all the skills I need to succeed in my career."

For Jason, it's a window to the future at Carl Sandburg College in Galesburg.

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