Uriel, a 2024 graduate of STRIVE Atlanta, at Lynne’s Welding Training in North Dakota, 2026
In today's economy, the skilled trades are getting some long-overdue attention. With over 500,000 open construction jobs and the average starting wage for welders, electricians and HVAC technicians now surpassing $50,000 annually, young people are thinking twice about the traditional 4-year college degree and turning to the trades as a more direct route to economic stability. For students facing systemic barriers like a disrupted education, economic hardship or limited professional networks, that path is rarely self-evident. Workforce development programs like STRIVE exist to change that, equipping motivated young people with the certifications, soft skills and career coaching needed to get their foot in the door and believe in their own potential.
Uriel's story is a testament to what becomes possible when the right support meets the right moment.
What prompted you to enroll in STRIVE Future Leaders?
I signed up with STRIVE when I was navigating difficulties in my life and trying to figure out my path into adulthood. I was 20 years old. I had dropped out of high school during the Covid-19 pandemic and was working minimum wage jobs with no growth in sight.
After I got my GED, my aunt introduced me to STRIVE Atlanta. At first, I was hesitant. But I attended an info session, and after hearing what the Future Leaders program offers for people in my position, I felt confident and ready to commit. I had a feeling this experience could help change my life for the better. They even helped me with transportation, so I knew had to give it a chance.
What skills did you gain from completing the program?
Through STRIVE, I gained financial, emotional and career-building skills that prepared me for real life. They taught us about saving and managing money, and we developed soft skills like communication, professionalism and workplace behavior. I also learned how to dress and carry myself with confidence. There is a free on-site closet of business attire with suits and other clothing that students can take for interviews. They really understand the foundational elements of getting hired and being successful at work.
The program offered career pathways such as office administration and warehouse/forklift training, where we earned certifications and gained entry-level experience to better position ourselves for employment. I got OSHA -10, Forklift, Certified Logistics Associate and Inventory Control certifications, which helped me land my first good warehouse job working at Americold.
Tell us about your first job after STRIVE.
I was hired at Americold as an Inventory Control Associate. I used the skills, certifications, and references I gained from STRIVE to obtain that position. I then grew into a lead inventory control associate on the night shift and trained new hires.
Uriel was inspired to continue his skilled trade education after completing the STRIVE Future Leaders program
We heard that you started your own business. Can you tell us about it?
I started my own pressure washing business called Forget the Grime. I was inspired after watching others build similar businesses on YouTube, and I decided to invest in myself. I went door-to-door passing out business cards and used the soft skills I learned through STRIVE to connect with customers. My first customer was a neighbor, and I was proud of the quality of work I delivered. While operations are on hold as I transition into my welding career, the experience helped me build confidence, initiative and an entrepreneurial mindset. I may revisit business ownership in the future.
What led you to North Dakota?
I moved to North Dakota due to the rising cost of living in Atlanta and the need to establish a more stable living situation. My mother had suffered a stroke, and I needed to be in a position where I could live with and care for her. Then I found a Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)-supported initiative that allowed me to enroll in Lynne’s Welding Training with tuition covered, which played a major role in my decision.
Tell us more about the welding program. What is next for you?
I am currently enrolled in Lynnes Welding Training; it's a 4-month program that prepares students for entry into the welding field. After graduation, I plan to begin working as a welder. I am open to staying in Fargo or relocating to Minneapolis, where there are even more jobs in the welding industry. But wherever opportunity takes me, I’m ready to go anytime, anywhere.
What message would you tell someone that may be on the fence about joining STRIVE?
Don’t doubt or hesitate. STRIVE gives you the tools, structure and support needed to succeed. If you are willing to learn, grow and make sacrifices for your future, the program can truly change your life. The staff on hand really care about your growth and push you to keep striving no matter what. You gain a second home, a network and a brotherhood that understands your obstacles in life and ways to overcome them. STRIVE works.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I just want to say thank you to the staff for helping me and many more graduates develop the skills to take steps forward in the program and in life. I remember I was awarded the “Hidden Gem” award at graduation, and back then I didn’t fully understand why. But now, I see why they kept telling us, 'Never give up on yourself and your story.' No matter your struggles, disabilities or past, there’s opportunities to change for the better in life and STRIVE is one of those places where you can spring forth and flourish.
Thank you to STRIVE Atlanta Future Leaders Program Manager Cherri Harrison-West for conducting Uriel's interview.
UPDATE: Since this interview, Uriel graduated from Lynne's Welding Training with multiple certifications and is now working as a Tank Welder at O'Day Tank & Steel in Fargo, ND, where they produce oil and water tanks for the oil fields in the region. His family is proud of his ambition and success. Congratulations on your inspiring journey, Uriel!
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About STRIVE
STRIVE is a national workforce development solution for people ready and motivated for a new start. We offer tuition-free skills and job-readiness training, one-on-one support and lifetime personal coaching. We create partnerships with employers that result in pathways to life-changing careers while helping employers close critical gaps in their workforce.