Where Are They Now
Raighlyn Lore - A New Uniform, Same Values
When Raighlyn first joined the Criminal Justice Program at SEATech, she had no idea how much it would change her life. What started as a simple interest in law enforcement quickly became one of the most meaningful experiences she’s ever had, one that prepared her for her future in the United States Army.
Throughout her time in the program, Raighlyn learned what it truly means to lead with discipline, integrity, and teamwork. The hands-on training, real-world scenarios, and strong sense of accountability shaped her into the person she is today. Raighlyn learned to stay calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and work together toward a common goal, lessons that she will carry with her every single day in her military career.
From her first year, she’ll admit, it was sometimes a struggle to get up and go. But by her second year, she didn’t ever want to leave. Her favorite part of the program was the sense of family and security that came with it. “You go in as strangers and leave as family. That bond, along with everything we learned, made the experience unforgettable.”
One person who made a lasting impact on both her education and personal growth was her instructor, Sergeant Smith. He goes far beyond teaching criminal justice concepts; he teaches life lessons that build discipline, independence, and confidence. When Raighlyn first joined, she was unsure of herself and hesitant to take the lead. “Sgt. Smith saw potential in me before I ever saw it in myself. Through his high standards, consistent encouragement, and no-nonsense approach, he pushed me to rise to challenges I once thought were beyond my reach.”
“Under his guidance, I learned what it means to take responsibility, stay focused, and believe in my own abilities. Sgt. Smith’s mentorship didn’t just prepare me for a career; it helped shape me into a stronger, more confident individual ready to face the world. The lessons he’s taught will stay with me long after graduation. His dedication to his students and his passion for helping us grow are something I’ll always be grateful for.”
Looking back, Raighlyn can see how every challenge, every drill, and every lesson in the program was preparing her for something bigger. “The Criminal Justice Program didn’t just help me find a career path; it helped me find purpose. It’s a huge part of why I’m proud to now serve in the United States Army, stationed in Oahu, Hawaii, where I transport equipment, supplies, and troops.”
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without the SEATech Criminal Justice Program or without Sgt. Smith’s belief in who I could become.”
Kylie Cochran, Kenny Gabel, and Rem McBride - 2024 WaHi Graduates
225 National FFA Convention & Expo - Jessica Johnson, Kylie Cochran, Kenny Gabel, and Rem McBride
Kylie Cochran - now a sophomore at WSU and recently declared Agriculture Education as her major.
Kenny Gabel - in his second year of the automotive tech program at WWCC, with plans to add diesel tech next.
Rem McBride - a first-year diesel tech student at WWCC who also completed firefighter/EMT coursework and is already serving shifts with the county fire department.
Each of these students was awarded the American FFA Degree, the highest honor they can achieve in the FFA organization (less than 1% of FFA members earn the American FFA Degree).
Their next chapters are already underway-and they make us proud.
