How Upskilling Can Change Your Life
Red Barn Academy student Justin Hoaglin went from being in jail to becoming a corporate leader through upskilling opportunities.
Hoaglin grew up in a single-parent household with strong role models. Unfortunately, the tragic loss of these influences as a young adult set him on a path he would later regret. “I explain it like a soda pop,” Hoaglin said. “You fill it, and eventually the bubbles start to bubble over.” After years of repressing his pain, an outstanding ticket sent Hoaglin to jail. During his incarceration, Hoaglin discovered Red Barn Academy.
At Red Barn, the surrounding people and opportunities kept Hoaglin motivated. Through collaborative courses with Weber State such as Persuasive Sales & Services and Supply Chain Management, Hoaglin developed new skill sets that sparked a fire for more. “I’ve always wanted to get a degree,” said Hoaglin. “Weber State’s collaboration with Red Barn helped me to see that it might be scary, but with courage, I am capable of hard things.” (Read more about Weber State's collaborative courses with Red Barn in "Creating Stellar Sellers with Red Barn Academy.")
Currently, Hoaglin works as the corporate development manager for Red Barn Academy. His position is responsible for reaching out to community partners for grants, educational opportunities and students' basic needs like hygiene items, clothing and more.
Hoaglin is finishing his second-year at Red Barn and plans on staying longer to continue his role. His dedication to the academy comes from the inspirational people he has met and the educational opportunities he has had throughout his experience.
For more information on how Weber State can meet your organizational needs, contact our Business Development Manager, Holly Suisse at hollysuisse@weber.edu.