From Struggles to Success: My Journey in Workforce Development and Beyond

Growing up in San Jose, CA, my story begins in a household where my single mother worked tirelessly to provide for us. Life was challenging, but I attended Westmont High School and learned to push through obstacles. However, when my parents found out I was gay, I was kicked out of the house and forced to drop out of school. It was a defining moment that led me to Texas, where I completed my GED in 2007. This experience taught me resilience and instilled a deep understanding of the importance of education and second chances.

In 2009, I moved to Nevada and began my career in retail management, a job that allowed me to build critical skills in operations, leadership, and customer service. My transition into the nonprofit sector came when I accepted a position as Retail Operations Manager for St. Jude's Ranch for Children. Working with foster care children, I introduced them to essential retail skills, such as running a register and providing customer service. These experiences became instrumental for the children living on the ranch, especially as they prepared to age out of the foster care system. The ranch’s remote location meant that opportunities were scarce, but our work in the thrift store became a lifeline for many of these kids.

It was during this time that I began working with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which changed the trajectory of my career. I transformed the thrift store into a WIOA Work Experience site, allowing foster care youth to gain paid employment experience while learning practical skills. I taught them how to write resumes, prepare for interviews, and step confidently into the job market. This was the beginning of my work in workforce development, where I found a deeper purpose—helping people access the tools they need to succeed.

After my time at St. Jude's Ranch, I took on a role at Help of Southern Nevada as a WIOA Case Manager. My focus was on assisting homeless youth who had dropped out of high school, a demographic that resonated with my own story of leaving school early and earning a GED. I helped these young adults with job searches, resume writing, and interview preparation, empowering them to find stability through employment.

Next, I joined Equus Workforce Solutions as a Quality Assurance Coordinator, where I was responsible for auditing case files, training new case managers, and preparing for state audits. This role allowed me to sharpen my eye for detail and cultivate a deep understanding of compliance within WIOA programs. My dedication led to a promotion to Program Supervisor, where I oversaw seven locations and managed a team of ten case managers. In this role, I ensured that services were delivered efficiently and effectively to those in need.

Later, I took on the role of Operations Supervisor and One-Stop Operator in Phoenix, AZ. This position gave me the responsibility of managing three offices and a team of seven staff members who ran the resource rooms in local job centers. These centers were critical in helping unemployed and underemployed individuals access essential services, such as job training, resume assistance, and career counseling. Under my leadership, we improved the efficiency and impact of the centers, helping thousands of people get back to work and thrive in their careers.

Currently, I work for the City of Phoenix as a WIOA Title 1B Caseworker, where I continue my mission to help unemployed individuals navigate the job market and re-enter the workforce. My work is informed not only by my professional experience but also by my personal journey. I know what it feels like to face uncertainty, and I am passionate about providing the support and resources that help others find stability and success.

In 2024, I furthered my commitment to professional development by joining the National Resume Writers’ Association (NRWA) and the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP). These memberships reflect my dedication to staying at the forefront of workforce development trends and continuing to offer the highest level of service to my clients and community.

Looking back, my journey from a struggling young adult to a seasoned workforce development professional has been defined by resilience, compassion, and a drive to help others succeed. Whether I’m assisting someone with resume writing, job interviews, or career planning, I am committed to empowering individuals to unlock their full potential. As I continue my work, I look forward to expanding my impact, helping more people achieve their career goals, and contributing to the growth of our workforce community.

Through my experience, I’ve learned that opportunity can be life-changing, and I am grateful to be in a position to offer that opportunity to others.