Zachary was high school dropout who feared that his lack of education and occupational skills would impede on his ability to provide for himself and create financial stability.
Zachary arrived at the Consortium with passion and drive, diving head-first into his first obstacle: achieving his diploma. His hard work and determination paid off in record time, earning his Maryland High School Diploma within months.
He had this to say about the program at WMC:
“Honestly, I don’t think I could have done it without them [Consortium Staff]. When I tried to do things myself, I wasn’t getting things done, and they kept me motivated, and I never fell behind. My foot was on the gas the whole time.”
After celebrating his first milestone, Zachary enrolled at the local community college with the goal of becoming a welder, as his grandfather before him. The Consortium ensured that his training, welding materials, and uniform were provided so that Zachary could focus on his lessons and path forward, not his barriers.
In a matter of months, he achieved his certification and began a work-based learning experience developed by his Career Counselor and connections with local community resources and employers. A local employer created a junior position for him and, in a year, Zachary attained full, certified Welder status, remaining full-time at the company that gave him a chance.
“They are great to work with,” Zachary said, “Working with them, I always felt like I had their help and support all along the way. They just give you the push that you need.”
