Jada Brooks, a Process Technology student at Baton Rouge Community College (BRCC), has faced significant challenges while remaining focused on her career goals. Initially, Jada enrolled at a four-year college to study computer science and mass communication but soon realized her true passion was elsewhere. Inspired by several family members employed as Process Technicians, Jada developed an interest in learning more about how plant systems operate. Her decision to transfer to BRCC’s Process Technology (PTEC) program marked a turning point in her academic journey, where she discovered not only a clear educational path but also an incredible support system. She viewed a career in Process Technology as an opportunity to contribute to society by helping manufacture essential products and resources needed for everyday life.
“When I learned of the many things that industrial plants produce, that is what triggered me to take more of an interest in studying to become a Process Technician,” said Jada. “I wanted to be a part of something great that contributes to society.
Jada’s academic journey hasn’t been easy. She has faced tremendous personal losses, losing both her parents within a span of two months, and even witnessing her father’s death. During the past several years, Jada has balanced her coursework with full-time employment at Amazon while learning how to live independently. Despite the emotional challenges, Jada found a supportive community at BRCC that helped her persevere. She credits BRCC for being there during her time of need, providing resources such as counseling and food support, as well as a community that understood her struggles. Although Jada had a difficult time adjusting after her parents' deaths, the support she received at BRCC enabled her to return and excel in her studies, ultimately earning straight A's.
“It was like a dark time in my life, and I wanted to give up and push school to the side, but I had to keep going,” said Jada. “BRCC provided me with a support system that gave me hope for the future. Without BRCC, I probably wouldn’t be here today.”
BRCC has provided Jada with more than just academic instruction. She speaks highly of her professors, who stayed after hours to help her succeed. She reflected on the countless hours of support that extended beyond textbooks and lectures. One of her favorite classes, Safety and Troubleshooting, equipped her with technical skills while reinforcing life-saving practices critical in her field, ensuring that workers can return home safely to their families. She also appreciates the hands-on, virtual training system at BRCC, which has provided PTEC students with realistic and practical experiences in plant operations. Jada describes BRCC’s Process Technology training as both challenging and rewarding, cultivating a sense of focus and resilience that she now carries with her in every endeavor.
“BRCC is family-oriented where teachers go above and beyond to help students succeed,” said Jada. “Every professor in the Process Technology program played a big role in my life. They stayed over late to help me study more. They don’t just see it only as a job - they genuinely care.
Beyond her studies, Jada is also an avid photographer whose art has been published in several magazines. She sees photography as a way to express her emotions and connect with others. One memorable experience was when Shaquille O’Neal gave her a shout-out at an event where she met the gregarious superstar.
Jada is dedicated to excelling in her field and plans to graduate in the summer of 2025. She hopes to begin working offshore to gain experience in various environments and further develop her career while exploring the industry. Additionally, she aspires to start her own business and give back to the community that has supported her throughout her journey.
Jada’s journey at BRCC is one of resilience, determination, community, and hope. Her experiences highlight the significant role of support systems like BRCC, which provide students not only with an education but also with life-changing mentorship. Her message to others facing similar challenges is to keep going, be persistent, and never give up. For Jada, BRCC is more than a college - it’s the family that carried her through the darkest times and the foundation for a bright future.