Life’s toughest moments can become the stepping stones to a brighter future. Dylan’s story is a testament to perseverance, resilience, and the power of opportunity. After years of incarceration and uncertainty, Dylan found a path that not only transformed his future but also inspired others facing similar challenges.
Starting from Scratch
When Dylan was released from incarceration, he faced a reality many returning citizens struggle with—no stable job history, no experience navigating employment, and no clear direction for the future. Having spent most of his adult life behind bars, the world outside felt unfamiliar and overwhelming.
“I didn’t know how to do anything,” Dylan recalls. “I didn’t know where to look for a job or how to get started.”
With limited experience and a history of setbacks, Dylan knew he had to take a different path this time. That’s when he discovered the Highway Construction Skills Training (HCST) program, a decision that would change everything.
Building Bridges—Literally and Figuratively
Dylan enrolled in the HCST program and took the opportunity seriously. He learned critical skills, from construction techniques to interview preparation, that helped him transition into the workforce. One lesson, in particular, stood out—how to confidently present himself in job interviews.
“The interview skills I learned in HCST really stuck with me,” Dylan says. “I feel good going into interviews now, and even better coming out of them.”
After completing the program, Dylan stepped into a career that pushed him beyond his comfort zone—bridge construction. Working at extreme heights, often at night, he helped build the very roads and structures that connect communities. This experience not only provided a stable income but also a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
Finding Balance and Passion
Though construction provided a new beginning, Dylan soon realized the importance of work-life balance. A long-time athlete, he rediscovered his passion for sports and joined a rugby club, which became an outlet for both discipline and camaraderie. Balancing a physically demanding job with high-impact sports was no easy task, but it reinforced his resilience.
“I was working 10-hour days in the sun, traveling long distances for rugby practice, hitting the gym, and repeating the cycle daily. It took a toll, but it also showed me what I was capable of.”
Eventually, Dylan made the difficult decision to transition from construction to a new opportunity that aligned with his growing aspirations. His passion for fitness and mentorship led him to pursue an education in exercise science, a field where he can inspire and guide others on their own fitness journeys.
A Future Built on Growth
Today, Dylan is preparing to take on his biggest challenge yet—college. He recently received a scholarship to play college rugby in Iowa and will be studying exercise science to turn his passion into a lifelong career. For someone who once thought he wouldn’t make it past his early years, Dylan’s journey is proof that change is possible with the right mindset and support.
His advice for those facing similar challenges?
“Get on your feet as soon as possible. It’s not easy, but tomorrow is always harder if you don’t start today. Don’t let setbacks discourage you. Stay on top of things, take advantage of opportunities, and keep pushing forward.”
Dylan’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and hope—a reminder that no matter where you start, a determined mindset and the right support can lead to a future filled with promise and success.
