I moved my family to a new city with the hope of a finding a new life. After a few months of searching unsuccessfully for a new job, I realized that not having my high school diploma was a huge barrier. While counseling with my bishop, I learned that there was an opportunity for me to obtain my high school equivalency diploma, known as a GED, while training and working at Deseret Industries (DI). I decided to give it a go.

I began in the custodial department and immediately began studying for the GED. Within three months, I passed the test and began working to further my education. I decided I wanted to go to college. While I was looking at my options, I continued to work hard at DI. I proved I was a good employee and earned a promotion. I became the lead of the custodial and maintenance department.

DI helped provide a portion of my tuition to an applied technology college, and I enrolled in machine tool technology. I won’t lie—it was a lot of work, but worth every bit. I had so much help from many patient tutors and from the staff at DI. I eventually earned my machinist level one certificate.

When I began looking at potential employers, I learned about the business partnership program offered through DI. Through this program, DI teams with a local business in my behalf. DI pays my wages while I prove myself and gain on-the-job experience. My team at DI helped me set up a business partnership with a great employer. I really enjoyed the people I worked with, and I was able to prove to them I was a good employee. At the end of the partnership, I received an offer of employment. I accepted!

Because of the DI program, I have my GED, I am a college graduate, and I have a wonderful job. My faith is also stronger. These blessings have come through hard work and the great people at DI. This training program has been a wonderful opportunity. I have found that new life I had hoped for. Thank you.