I came to Nevada in 1995, as a single mom with two small daughters. The struggle to pay for childcare in California was crippling; my entire paycheck was gone. In Nevada, I was fortunate enough to have my Mom watch my girls for free. What a lifeline!

My next hurdle was finding a job that provided healthcare. I loved my 15 years in medical research, but in the mid-nineties, with no medical school, dental school, and UNLV in the beginning stages of serious research, Las Vegas did not offer opportunities to someone like me who worked in research. It was time to reinvent myself!

Having grown up in Chicago, completing a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Illinois, I knew that union jobs provided excellent healthcare. So, I applied at IBEW Local 357 in 1996 and was accepted into the apprenticeship. I am now a 30-year member, and I really can’t recommend apprenticeships enough! Learning a Trade elevated my life and more importantly, secured my daughters’ futures. If you find yourself at a turning point in your life never be afraid to take a chance on changing your life!