February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, and we are celebrating by spotlighting HBI students in our programs! HBI CTE programs offer hands-on learning, real-world skills and careers that pay well. Instead of just sitting in a classroom, you get to learn by doing, exploring trades like carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and more.
HBI graduates have taken bold steps to transform their careers through HBI’s construction training programs, demonstrating the power of CTE to create real-world opportunities and change lives. Here are five inspiring success stories that showcase the dedication, hard work, and determination of HBI graduates who are making a difference in the construction industry.
8 HBI Graduate Success Stories: Real Journeys, Real Achievements
At HBI, we’re proud of our graduates who have taken the skills they learned through our programs and used them to launch successful careers in construction. In honor of CTE Month, we’re highlighting seven inspiring success stories from HBI graduates who have transformed their lives and are now thriving in the construction industry. These individuals started with little to no experience in the trades, but with the support of our hands-on training programs, they’ve secured fulfilling, high-demand jobs that offer stability and growth.
From overcoming personal obstacles to pursuing a complete career change, these graduates are proof that with the right training and determination, anyone can succeed in the construction industry. Whether it’s carpentry, electrical work, or plumbing, HBI has equipped them with the tools and knowledge to build a successful future. Here’s a look at their stories and how HBI made it possible for them to turn their career dreams into reality.
1. Stefano Bertoldi – Carpentry Graduate, Sacramento Academy
Stefano Bertoldi, originally from Italy, discovered HBI while searching online for a residential construction program. With no prior trade experience, Stefano immersed himself in the carpentry curriculum at the Sacramento Academy, where he thrived in both theoretical and practical training. After completing the program in November 2024, he enrolled in Cosumnes River College to continue his carpentry education. Stefano’s advice to those considering the program?
“It is a very complete program that can meet the knowledge and networking needs that you are looking for.”
2. Victoria Coleman – Carpentry Graduate, Orlando Academy
Victoria Coleman was working as an IT representative before discovering the HBI program through a social media ad. Drawn to the hands-on carpentry training, she excelled in the Orlando Academy’s program and graduated in November 2024. Victoria’s determination led her to a full-time carpentry position with Austin Historical, working on restorations and preservation projects. Her advice to others:
“Do it! The time commitment is short, but you will learn a lot in the short time you are in class.”
3. Daunte Simms – Pre-Apprentice Electrical & Overhead Line Training Programs, Job Corps
Daunte Simms of Portland, Oregon, gained hands-on experience and industry credentials in the skilled trades under HBI’s training partnership with the US Department of Labor Job Corps:
“HBI gave me the skills to succeed in life and create value for myself.”
4. Felton Smith – Electrical Graduate, Home Building Academy Phoenix
Felton Smith’s path to HBI began in a rehab program, where he struggled with sobriety before discovering the Home Building Academy’s electrical training program. After overcoming personal challenges, Felton completed the program in October 2024. Today, he works for the Scion Group at the ASU Tempe campus, applying his new electrical skills. Felton’s advice to potential students:
“Believe in yourself, it’s not going to be easy, but if you stay teachable and humble, the sky’s the limit!”
5. La’sondrya Williams – Electrical Graduate, West Palm Beach Career Center
La’sondrya Williams, who had built a career as a machine operator, sought to change careers and entered the HBI program in electrical. She graduated in October 2024 and soon secured a job as an Electrician Helper with Kasper Electrical in Palm Beach Gardens. La’sondrya shares this message for those considering HBI:
“In the end, it’s all worth it.”
6. Maximilian Carroll – Carpentry Graduate, San Marcos Career Center at Camp Pendleton
Maximilian Carroll, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, faced financial strain after transitioning out of the military but found hope in HBI’s carpentry program. Despite the challenges, he enrolled and is set to graduate in December 2025. Maximilian already secured an apprenticeship with the Local 805 Carpentry Union, with plans to start earning over $30/hour after completing his training. He encourages others to take the leap:
“DO IT! It’s 100% a great opportunity.”
7. Mark Chappell, Masonry Graduate, Sheridan Career Center
Mark Chappell graduated from HBI’s Masonry Program at the Sheridan Career Center in Illinois. With over 20 years of construction experience, he joined HBI while working at Sheridan Correctional Facility. Drawn by the program’s stellar reputation for empowering individuals to rebuild their lives through skilled trades, he wholeheartedly embraced the opportunity.
Mark’s favorite part is working on historic building restoration projects and seeing the tangible impact of his work. “It made me feel good about the work we did and learning the trade,” he shared. Mark has secured a union laborer position with Local 338 in Wood River, IL, earning a good salary and building a bright future for himself. Mark’s advice for future students:
“Take pride in yourself, invest in yourself, so you can make something of yourself.”
8. Bryan Albarado, Carpentry Graduate, Fort Liberty
Bryan Albarado turned his time in military service into a foundation for success. After serving almost four years in the Army, Bryan joined HBI’s SkillBridge Program at Ft. Liberty with a clear goal: to build a career in construction during his transition from the military. Since graduating from HBI, Bryan has joined his local Habitat for Humanity, where he’s not just building homes—he’s building futures. In his time there, he has taken on leadership roles, earned his OSHA 30 Certification, and continues to give back by mentoring HBI students and leading community projects.
“I want to help the program anyway I can by giving my knowledge and guidance to the incoming students as they find their way out of the military as I did. I hope to..show the next group of HBI students that hard work and dedication can open many doors to each and every one of us as long as we continue to press forward and never settle for less.”
These success stories demonstrate the transformative impact of HBI’s programs on the lives of individuals, especially those who are seeking to make a fresh start or advance in their careers. As we celebrate CTE Month, we are proud of these graduates and excited to see what the future holds for them in the construction industry.
HBI Free Training for Careers in Construction
When you join HBI, you’re not just gaining skills—you’re becoming part of a supportive community of learners and professionals who are there to help you succeed every step of the way.
- No tuition.
- No student debt.
- Just hands-on training that sets you up for a career you can be proud of.
Are You Ready to Build A Career In Construction?
Are you ready to start your journey in construction?
HBI’s tuition-free training programs could be your gateway to a fulfilling career.
Reach out to us and take the first step toward building your future!
The U.S. construction industry is expected to grow by 7% by 2033, creating thousands of job opportunities for skilled workers like you. Interested in starting your own journey with HBI? Learn more about our programs and how they can help you build the career you deserve.
By sharing these success stories, we hope to inspire more young adults and individuals looking to change careers to consider HBI’s training programs. Whether you’re seeking stability, career growth, or a fresh start, HBI offers the hands-on training and job opportunities needed to succeed in the booming construction industry.
