Marlon Robinson, a recent graduate of Bishop Borgess High School, a Catholic school in Redford Township, is an accomplished athlete and honor-roll student with a strong work ethic. Last year Marlon participated in a unique school-to-work program sponsored by Chrysler Corporation. His mother, a Chrysler employee, recommended the program.

The Chrysler National Training Center's high school student program offers 10 courses in subjects including robotics, computer graphics and design, machinery repair, electrical training, customer service, advanced math, and labor relations. Each course lasts four to six weeks, and is held two nights a week from 4 to 6 p.m.

"I believe these classes will help me achieve my personal career goals," Marlon said about his experience with Chrysler. "I believe this program will someday help me find a good job," he said.

Marlon says one of the most helpful courses in the Chrysler program was customer service, which included a section on how to apply and interview for jobs. "The School-to-Work program has given me skills I am able to use in the automotive industry, school, and everyday life. These classes have also shown me how to talk, dress, act, and handle pressure while staying calm."

Marlon's favorite classes were computer accounting and physical science. His math teacher, Ron Ferenczi, says Marlon is a good student who conscientiously works toward his career goals and exemplifies values, character, and drive.

But Marlon gives a great deal of credit for his success to his school. "In this environment, you get a lot of one-on-one attention and help from teachers," he says.

As for his work ethic, his parents' influence is responsible. "It's in my blood," Marlon says. "I don't really like to hang out on the weekends; I'd rather work." In addition to the Chrysler program, Marlon's jobs have included working for a grocery store, a cleaning service, and a record store. In his free time, he enjoys working on computers and playing football.

Marlon hopes to play football at the collegiate level, and the school he attends will probably like that idea. Through two years of junior varsity basketball and two of varsity football, Marlon has received many awards, including All-State, All-Area, All-Catholic, and All-League awards. He also was invited to play in all-star games in Hawaii and Australia.

Marlon is looking forward to a bright future at college and beyond. He plans to enter a technical university where he can study computer engineering and accounting.

And he hopes to get in a little football, too.