YouthBuild Lake County / Success stories
Leo
New skills and a new direction.
Leo was working as a cashier at McDonald’s and felt ready for a change. He had left high school because the traditional setting did not feel right for him, but he still wanted to earn his diploma.
A cousin who had graduated from YouthBuild Lake County encouraged him to apply. Leo initially came for his diploma, then discovered opportunities to develop job skills and learn how to manage his money.
Along with his diploma, he earned OSHA 10, YRGE, Flagger, and NCCER credentials. An internship with YouthBuild employer partner Santana Equipment gave him a chance to put his skills to work.
“They not only helped me get my high school diploma but helped me balance my money and be smarter with spending overall.”
Leo
When the internship ended, Santana Equipment offered Leo a full-time position as a painter. He had moved from a job that left him feeling stuck to a career path he wanted to pursue.
“I left McDonald’s and now I have a path. I wish there was a YouthBuild in every city.”
Leo
Leo describes the YouthBuild staff as a support system that helped him recognize what he could accomplish. Earning his diploma and starting a new job gave him confidence to keep setting goals.
The Bigger Picture
Building skills.
Building stronger communities.
Homes, workplaces, and public spaces depend on skilled people. Training and connections to employers help young adults find their place in the trades.
U.S. construction & extraction occupations
587,000
projected job openings
each year, on average
From new jobs and the need to replace workers who leave these occupations.
Opportunity in the skilled trades.
Projected U.S. employment growth, 2025 to 2035
National projections for 2025 to 2035. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Construction and Extraction Occupations and Occupational Projections.
Help the next story begin.
Leo’s journey shows what opportunity can make possible. Your support helps more young adults build a foundation through education, career training, and real work experience at YouthBuild Lake County.
