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Success Stories

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Kellie Nishikida, 2nd year apprentice

"I graduated from the University of Hawaii with a bachelor's degree in psychology. After graduating I still didn't know what kind of career I wanted so I continued to work in the foodservice industry as a line cook. I worked two jobs to stay busy and make money."

"After a couple of years I realized that I couldn't live paycheck to paycheck working two jobs for the rest of my life. A friend told me that the painters Union was looking to girls so I decided to apply. I always knew I didn't want to sit behind a desk all day so I took advantage of the opportunity. I really enjoy painting because I enjoy being physically active and working with my hands. I also enjoy working at different places around the island. I am constantly learning about the trade and plan to make it my permanent career."

Taylor Sanchez, 3rd year apprentice, 4th generation painter

"When I was asked in elementary school by my teachers what I wanted to be when I grow up, I answered a painter. They all told me that I needed to think higher than that. Seeing my papa and dad paint seems only fitting that I wanted to do the same thing...Today, I am proud to be a painter apprentice and follow my bloodline’s footstep to carry out our tradition. The apprenticeship program has taught me valuable tools to becoming a great craftsmen in my trade."

Cory Tani, Training Coordinator, 3rd generation painter

"My senior year in high school I didn’t receive any athletic scholarships so it was on to Plan B, military. I talked with my recruiter for several months, took all my testing and filled out the paperwork. Just before I was ready to go to boot camp my dad asked me to come to work with him for a couple of months before leaving. A couple of months ended to the present day where now after 20 years when I made the decision to be in an apprenticeship program, I am now running the same program I was once in myself. The apprenticeship program opened up more opportunities for me to grow my career after working on the field as a painter. If you work hard and set goals for success, anything is possible."

Justin Ramirez: From Accounts Department to Apprenticeship

Justin was working in the electronic funds transfer- accounts department in one of the local banks on O’ahu when he realized it’s about time to change occupation. He wanted a better opportunity for himself so he applied for the IBEW Electricians Apprenticeships. Now, with the assistance of O’ahu WorkLinks, Justin is in his third year in his apprenticeship and he is loving it. He said that the apprenticeship is impacting his life in a positive way. It has helped him financially as well as professionally.

"I feel like I have accomplished more than my last job", says Justin. He has big plans for his future when he finally finishes his Electrician's Apprenticeship program. He wants to take in more responsibility, advance in his profession and hopefully become a foreman someday.