Tenacious Automotive Technician Training Student
Challenges Breed Determination
Amanda had always wanted a big family, so she wasn't afraid when she became pregnant with her first child at 17. She knew it would be challenging, but she was determined to make it work and do it well.
Amanda's first daughter, Victoria, was born 12 days after her 18th birthday. She named her after the goddess of Victory because she knew she would be victorious in her journey as a young mother. Amanda worked hard to provide for her daughter, but it wasn't always easy. Over the years she had 4 more beautiful children, each unique and special in their own way. After 18 years of hard work for a local hospital, it was sold and all of Amanda’s earned work flexibility was lost. As a busy working mom, Amanda decided to make a career change as an electrician but was laid off four times in 12 months due to lack of work.
Despite these setbacks, Amanda never gave up. She was determined to provide for her now family of eight. Amid the struggles, she LOVES being a mom and says her favorite part is everything! Amanda is grateful for being a mom to all her children; while they are the ones she is working so hard for, they are also her inspiration! "It's not focusing on what you're missing out on but what you get to be a part of—especially in motherhood," she shared.
When she heard about the ChangingGears Automotive Technician Training program, she had to try it. Amanda completed the program with flying colors and loved learning how everything went together. She was determined to succeed and loved being part of a small group where she could learn individually and as a group. Her first job in her new career has come with its challenges as the first female in her shop, but she uses it to continue to fuel her fire.
This journey to success continues to be full of challenges that only make Amanda more persistent. Her car died while she was in Automotive Technician Training, and she had to rely on the bus and friends to get to her new job. The bus took 2 ½ hours one way, and she had to take three different buses to get home. The bus didn't show up two times, and her daughter started driving her to work. But sometimes, Amanda had to take an Uber, which cost her $45 one-way. It was a struggle, but Amanda knew she had to keep pushing forward.
With her connection and experience with ChangingGears, she knew about our Vehicle Purchase Program. So Amanda graduated from the Automotive Technician Training program, started her new job, and again visited ChangingGears to purchase her car! She was grateful for the guidance provided and was able to pick the right vehicle for her needs. She loved that she was still on her first gas tank a week later despite driving 37 minutes to work each way.
Today, Amanda is still working hard to provide for her family. "I know I'm not perfect. But I'm super street smart, and I'm perfectly imperfect. And normal is not the goal; we're going for more!" Amanda shared. She's grateful for everything she has and knows the key to success is being a better you every day.
