DCMKE Episode 11: Voices of Youth – Building Futures
Welcome back to Direct Connect Milwaukee, where we spotlight the movers and shakers making a real difference in our city. In this inspiring episode, “Voices of Youth,” host Speaker A sits down with Ms. Angelia Gatson of Northcott Neighborhood House–a local champion for youth employment and empowerment.
Ms. Gatson, the lead employment specialist at Northcott, gives listeners an inside look into the Arborist Landscape and Design and Construction-based training programs. These initiatives aren’t just about teaching hard skills like handling tools or earning certifications; they dig deeper, tackling crucial “soft skills” such as punctuality, accountability, communication, and maintaining professionalism. The ultimate goal? To equip young adults not only to land jobs but, just as importantly, to keep them.
Throughout the conversation, Ms. Gatson shares eye-opening stories of the triumphs and struggles she’s seen in her five years guiding youth through career pathways. She candidly highlights the challenges many face—especially around “adulting” and accepting responsibility—and offers practical, compassionate approaches to help them grow. It's not just about clocking in; it's about showing up, learning from mistakes, and letting go of fear. Her wisdom is clear: “Getting a job is just half the battle, but keeping it is the biggest battle.”
Listeners hear how technology fits into the picture, with Ms. Gatson revealing that while many young people are fluent with smartphones, computers and essential workplace apps are often a hurdle. She stresses the need for patience, faith, trust, and meaningful support as youth navigate these new environments.
We also get to celebrate the wins–Ms. Gatson recounts success stories of participants who turned challenges into lasting careers, bought cars, homes, and even inspired their friends to join the programs. Recognition, she notes, is a powerful motivator, fueling both accomplishment and positive peer pressure.
Whether it’s learning how to craft a professional voicemail greeting, showing up for your full shift, or mastering teamwork and leadership, Ms. Gatson’s mentorship goes beyond Northcott and into the broader community. Her passion for empowering Milwaukee’s youth is contagious—and her practical advice, like keeping your phone number updated and your voicemail professional, are gems for anyone starting out.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in Milwaukee’s future, especially those eager to support or join youth development efforts. If you’d like to learn more or connect with Ms. Gatson, Northcott Neighborhood House is waiting to welcome you.
Tune in for insight, wisdom, and hope–because every young person deserves a seat at the table, and a path to a brighter tomorrow.
Listen to this episode for:
Real stories of youth overcoming adversity
Practical advice for entering the workforce
An inside look at Northcott’s job training programs
How mentorship and community support can change lives
If you’re inspired to learn more, reach out to Northcott Neighborhood House at 414-372-3770