NMTI, located in Lower Base, trained the graduates on carpentry, painting, plumbing, electronics, sewing, cosmetics hair styling and the culinary arts.
Some of the graduates were emotional when they received their certificates during the graduation ceremony attended by Gov. Benigno R. Fitial and other government officials.
Yan Che Pangelinan, who completed the sewing course, said attending the trade school while raising a five-year-old son “is kind of hard but I did it because I have to stand up for my son.”
Now that they have acquired trade skills, Pangelinan said she and her classmates feel that they are needed.
With Susana Paras as their instructor, Pangelinan and her classmates, Augustina P. Jaimatoon, Kartenia E. Achime, Juana L. Pua and Nieves O. Romolor, used second-hand sewing machines to learn how to make curtains, aprons, mattresses and embroidery.
“If we work hard enough, nothing is impossible,” Pangelinan said.
She said they plan to use their skills in starting a small business at home.
Salmino A. Santos, who was among those who finished the core curriculum or prerequisite subjects, said when he walked into the institute’s door on the first day of classes, he did not know what was going to happen next.
But he later saw how motivated the teachers and the other students were.
He decided to come back the next day and study his lessons.
Santos said he hopes the institute will continue to help residents achieve their goals.
Joaquin Pangelinan, who started working with a construction firm while still attending the trade school, said he will pursue a career in electricity.
Fitial, in his remarks, said NMTI is a new but a promising institution on island.
He said he recognizes the importance of having a trade school by signing laws that support its program.
“You should be very proud of your achievements,” Fitial told the graduates.
Rep. Justo S. Quitugua, D-Saipan, who introduced the legislation in support of the institute, said the school, its instructors and the government can only do so much for the graduates — their success will still depend on their efforts.
Aside from Santos and Pangelinan, those who a completed the core curriculum “A” under instructor Ignacio Camacho were Max S. Keller, Juan R. Limes, John Roman Lisua, Custer N. Madracheluib, Vincent R. Mendiola, Jason L. Nekaifes, Michael Clinton A. Reyes, Misael L. Romolor, Jesse Elroy C. Santos, Jerrimey H. Solomon and Jesse John Stephen.
Those who finished core curriculum “B” under instructor Mike Anthony were Kay M. Amandus, Stallone Defang, Young S. Lim, Herman I. Okaruru Jr., Collier N. Siksei, and J.R. S. Welley.
