Jeremy McIntire

At age 12, most boys are climbing trees, playing sports, or finding ways to antagonize their siblings. Jeremy McIntyre, on the other hand, started work. When his church burnt down, he spent his spare time working with Cas-mel Construction, the company rebuilding it. Now, six years later, construction is his life. As a senior at Valley High School, Jeremy attends masonry classes at Northern Westmoreland Career Technology Center (NWCTC). This he thought was another great opportunity to work with his hands. Because of his skill level, he participates in a co-op program that allows him to leave school early and work during those hours. He works at Rayzeiler Junior Construction in New Kensington.

After high school, Jeremy plans to attend Rosedale Technical School, a 16-month trade school in Homestead. Here he will study diesel mechanics. This school also has a placement program similar to what he has now at NWCTC so he can work while attending classes. Jeremy hopes that all this preparation will lead to him owning a construction company some day. Through his business, he wants to “give younger kids a chance to work” the same way he was given a chance.

Besides construction, Jeremy’s other love is guitar. Encouraged by his sixth grade choir teacher’s passion for the piano, Jeremy picked up the guitar five years ago. He may well achieve his ambition to play an instrument as well as, if not better than, his former teacher.

For several years he put his talent to good use in a Christian rock band, Adam’s Rib. This band was founded through his church, Trinity United Church in Lower Burrell. He played and sang in the band as well as running sound board. Jeremy also helps to organize the annual Rock Fest, an event at his church that hosts area Christian bands to enjoy good music.

Of those who have helped Jeremy along the way, he feels his mother, Barb McIntyre, is the most influential person in his life. With a rocky adolescence behind him, Jeremy said, she “keeps me out of trouble” and “gives really good advice.” He acknowledged that his life would not have been the same without her.