Upcoming MCTC grad a beacon of inspiration for community

May 2, 2024
by Megan Smedley

At 41 years old, Jamie Fraley proudly declares himself a recovered addict, celebrating nearly five years of sobriety.

“Addiction doesn’t pick and choose. My parents have been happily married for over 40 years. I grew up in a Christian household and all my wants and needs were always met. My childhood was spectacular,” Fraley said. “Choices I made led me in a downhill spiral through life. Through it all, my parents continued to pray, and I guess one can say those prayers finally made it through.”

Fraley, a first-generation college student, is currently enrolled in the Industrial Maintenance Technology (IMT) program at Maysville Community and Technical College (MCTC)’s Montgomery Campus and is set to graduate during tomorrow evening’s commencement ceremony.

He said he made the leap to go to college because he wanted a better life for his family.

“MCTC has allowed me to obtain a degree in a field I really enjoy that will provide financial security for my family,” he said.

When asked why he chose the IMT program, Fraley said it was because he could utilize the skill set he had developed as a young man growing up working alongside his father in his woodworking and metal shop.

He said choosing MCTC was “a natural choice” as the college came highly recommended by his previous employer, Summit Polymers.

Fraley praised the unwavering support and dedication of the faculty and staff at MCTC, saying they go above and beyond to ensure student success.

"Hands down, this is the best experience I've ever had. I have never before encountered faculty and staff to be so helpful and do what is necessary to see their students succeed,” he said.

He added, "I've also got to brag on the lab equipment provided to students for a true hands-on experience. MCTC's facilities are top-notch. I would strongly recommend and encourage anyone who has an interest in the trades to enroll at MCTC."

Graduates of the IMT program at MCTC are trained to install, repair, and maintain the machinery used in manufacturing and industry. Degree, diploma, and certificate options are available.

Students enrolled in the IMT program may be eligible for the Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship, which will pay the program’s tuition in its entirety.

For more information about the IMT program at MCTC, contact Robbie Graves, program coordinator, by emailing robbie.graves@kctcs.edu.