Maria Young: From Refugee to Flight Attendant—A Journey of Resilience and Rise

Maria Young’s story is one of profound strength, determination, and transformation. Born in Liberia, Maria and her sister endured unimaginable loss, losing both of their parents to violence. As young refugees, they were given a second chance at life when they were adopted together and brought to the United States.

Maria arrived at Gary Job Corps Center in San Marcos, Texas, on June 25, 2017, ready to rewrite her future. She first completed the Office Administration program, then advanced into the TCU/IAM Airline Program, where she thrived. In just six months, Maria completed her airline training, establishing herself as a leader, mentor, and pillar of the Gary Job Corps community.

With a relentless focus on her personal and professional growth, Maria applied to DNATA, an airline services contractor, and was hired on October 10, 2019, as a Customer Service Representative supporting Alaska, Frontier, and Spirit Airlines.

But for Maria, that was just the beginning.

In October 2022, she achieved her lifelong dream of becoming a flight attendant, joining MESA Airlines, and taking to the skies with confidence, compassion, and pride.

Maria’s story reflects not only what’s possible through Job Corps and TCU training but also a shining example of what it means to overcome hardship and rise with purpose.

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