Four years ago, Brownsville resident Rogelio Garcia depended on government assistance to feed himself, his wife and their five children. Today, thanks to the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement, that’s no longer the case.
In early August of 2013, Garcia had a near-fatal accident that resulted in him going on disability. During his recovery, a friend told him about VIDA and its Commercial Electrician Program, focused on increasing the skill level — and in turn, the pay — of those currently in or interested in the field.
Established nearly 30 years ago, VIDA is a nonprofit organization that provides financial, counseling, and support services to help residents of the Rio Grande Valley overcome the barriers that have prevented them from earning a degree or certificate in high-demand, high-paying fields. Funded by municipalities, the state, foundations, grants and donations from individuals, VIDA boasts a 93 percent persistence rate.
Garcia applied to VIDA and was admitted.
“I decided to enroll in the program to advance more in life, as well as to earn a degree so my children would have no excuse not to go to college and receive a degree,” Garcia said.
He started the program in 2021 and will graduate in December 2023.
Training Opportunities Near and Far
According to Sid Ramos, VIDA workforce development manager, the first level of the program normally runs nine months with students attending class once a week. However, students enrolled in VIDA’s program attend class four days a week and complete Level 1 in four months. Upon completion, they can begin working in the field immediately.
“They can choose to work locally or outside the RGV,” Ramos said. “They get great experience when they travel and they earn top dollar due to the shortage of electricians across the U.S.”
After eight months of work, students complete their first year in the program and begin Level 2 of the program. They return to the Valley at this point, if they have left.
Garcia accepted a job at Kiewit in Ohio, where he uses his electrician training to connect solar panels. He recently earned a promotion to acting foreman.
“Since joining the VIDA program and completing the first level, I have earned, on average, $44 an hour with $80 per diem,” Garcia said. His wife stayed in Brownsville with their children, who range in age from 8 to 19. This opportunity, Garcia said, has helped his family tremendously.
“I faced the challenge of having kids at a young age and had to work and provide for my family while my wife attended, and graduated from, The University of Texas Brownsville as a teacher,” Garcia said. “VIDA is important to all individuals, including myself, because it gives us a second change at graduating and receiving a degree, which many think isn’t possible.”
Opportunities Await
In December 2023, when Garcia completes Levels 1 and 2, he will be certified Level 1 and Level II Commercial Electrician under the National Center for Construction Education and Research. Both are globally recognized certifications, according to Ramos. With three-and-a-half years of experience, program graduates can take the state exam for their journeyman electrician license.
Garcia is quick to show gratitude as he reflects on his current opportunities and those that await him.
“I would like to thank Sid Ramos for giving me the opportunity to shine and prevail when all odds were against me,” Garcia said, “and Sergio Salinas, my instructor from IBEW Local 1015. Also, San Juanita Sanchez, who interviewed me and accepted me into the VIDA program one year ago. I will forever be grateful to VIDA and will not let them down. God bless everyone who helped me, and thanks again for this amazing opportunity to shine and make VIDA proud.”