When we first met Larissa, she was working a minimum wage job in retail with unstable hours. She was also taking odd jobs as a serve for different jobs just to make extra money to help with monthly expenses. Every month was a struggle, and she was getting tired of not making enough money to support her family. She wanted a better future for herself and kids.
Larissa had heard a friend of hers talk about our Highway Construction Skills Training (HCST) program and encouraged her to enroll. But she was a little hesitant. “I didn’t think I was right for construction. I was convinced that it took a special type of person to be able to do the work – specialized skills, specialized knowledge – and I didn’t have that.” Though it took her a while to finally convince herself, Larissa decided that she had nothing to lose but enroll.
She got connected with Lorie, our HCST Coordinator in Rock County where she went through a screening process to learn more about the program to set herself up for success. Once enrolled, Larissa’s biggest goal was to complete the program. She never really felt like she finished anything since graduating high school. She wasn’t sure if she could handle the schooling.
After a few weeks in class, she knew that enrolling was a good decision, but was still struggling to find confidence that would take her to the finish line. Once Larissa caught on to the learning process in class, she couldn’t give up. Success seemed too obtainable at that point.
“I remember when Larissa started in the class,” says HCST Coordinator Lorie. “She appeared to be cautiously excited at the start of the class. I could tell that being in the class, learning the information and connecting with her fellow classmates was a positive thing.”
Even though it wasn’t an easy start, juggling childcare and life, Larissa made it happen and she had a team cheering her on. “Lorie was my most favorite thing in the program, hands down,” says Larissa. “She had interesting stories and made the class enjoyable. She made sure that everyone understood the class material, and simplified things to help us. Learning new things can be hard, and change is always a challenge, but it didn’t feel like a terrible thing.”
After graduating the class, life really started to look up for Larissa. She was able to land a great position that allowed her to be able to pay off her debts and get her license back. Today, Larissa doesn’t have to stress when unexpected expenses come up. She can even afford to treat herself and her family. “It’s a huge relief, and I’m happier and more appreciative of the things I have,” says Larissa. “I’m not focused on running around, stressing about money. I have the time and ability to relax and enjoy time with my kids more.”
What’s Larissa’s secret to success? “Never give up. Even though I’ve had some upsets, I’ve learned so much. Not only about the construction industry, but I learned mostly about myself. I’m a lot tougher than I thought!”
Congratulations, Larissa! We’re proud of you for sticking with it and building on your future!
Are you looking to start a great career in construction? Our Highway Construction Skills Training (HCST) program can help!
