When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the economy, José Gonzalez suddenly found himself facing an uncertain future.
After working as a maintenance technician for Clear Development, where he handled repairs ranging from plumbing fixtures to electrical work, José was laid off as businesses downsized. Although he found temporary employment at a local Vons supermarket, he knew he wanted to return to the maintenance field and continue building a long-term career.
The opportunity came from someone close to home.
José learned about JVS SoCal’s ApartmentWorks program through his sister, a graduate of JVS SoCal’s BankWork$ program who had successfully launched her own career in banking. Encouraged by her experience, José enrolled in ApartmentWorks hoping to sharpen his technical skills and open new doors.
The program exceeded every expectation.
“Not only because of the training that we got,” José says, “but because the instructors are experts. They gave us the tools we needed and were always willing to help.”
Over eight weeks, José received hands-on training in apartment maintenance while strengthening the practical skills employers seek most. From technical instruction to professional development, ApartmentWorks prepared him for every step of the hiring process. The program also provided supportive services, including financial assistance for transportation, allowing José to remain focused on completing his training.
One of the program’s greatest advantages, José says, was its emphasis on interview preparation and career readiness.
“The soft skills were very important,” he explains. “They helped prepare us for the interview process.”
Combined with direct interviews with employer partners immediately following graduation, ApartmentWorks gave José something many job seekers struggle to find—an opportunity to get his foot in the door.
That opportunity quickly became reality.
Today, José is employed by AvalonBay Communities, one of the nation’s leading apartment management companies, where he is building the career he envisioned when he enrolled in ApartmentWorks.
Looking back, José says the program changed far more than his employment status.
“It definitely changed my life,” he says. “The program put us on a path that directs us toward success. Now it’s up to us to deliver.”
Today, instead of wondering what comes next after a layoff, José is confidently growing his career, proof that opportunity, combined with determination, can transform lives.
If you’re inspired by José ‘s story and would like to help someone else achieve their dream, please donate today.