Moving from Massachusetts to Florida in his teens in search of options, Charlie Jimenez discovers welding years later

Charlie Jimenez dropped out of school at 17, moved to Florida and went to work in construction when his son was born. Living in Massachusetts at the time of his son’s birth proved difficult because of age requirements for joining the workforce, so one major life event led to another as he relocated to the Sunshine State. From there he would spend the following years between two jobs.?

“I was in construction for six or seven years and liquor delivery for eight years,” Jimenez said. He worked on remodeling the interiors of clubs and restaurants before delivering liquor when he decided he wanted something more.?

“I’ve been at two jobs my whole life so I decided I need a career instead of a job,” Jimenez said. His mother-in-law found the Valencia College Accelerated Skills Training Welding Technology program, and even though his father owns a garage and has done some welding himself, Jimenez was apprehensive.

“I told my mother-in-law I’ve never done that in my life,” Jimenez said. “I don’t know if I’ll be good at it.” Compounded with the fact that he hadn’t been in an educational setting since dropping out of school as a teenager so he could take care of his son, Jimenez fought the early nerves.

“I was really nervous, when I was young, I really didn’t like school,” Jimenez said. “But, since this is hands on it keeps you motivated, focused and you’re always busy.”

He continued to work in liquor delivery while training in the program, but he adapted to that quickly. Although it’s a tough schedule, he manages. The days are long as he wakes up early for class then goes straight to work where he hits the gas pedal until all his deliveries are done.?

Jimenez found he works well under pressure which helped him combat any trepidation he had which in turn helped him learn to stay calm and get the job done right. Now, with a number of certifications under his belt, he has at least one job offer but he hopes to one day own his own business.?

“My dad owns a garage,” Jimenez said. His dad does mechanic and auto body work and even welds. “I want to help him and have my own company. That way we can grow together.” Jimenez says his dad only speaks Spanish and he loves showing his dad what he has learned and created in welding.

“He says that’s amazing, I’m really proud of you.”