From Custodian to Technician
Building a career and showing up for what matters most
Just a year ago, Lamont was working as a custodian at a local high school, supporting his girlfriend and three young children and wondering what was next. “I was ready for something different,” he said. “I wanted a career, something I could build for my family.”
Lamont had been in his role for several years, but he knew he wanted more. After experiencing car troubles of his own, he became curious about the automotive field and started exploring training programs. That search led him back to a place he had heard about years earlier through his mom, CityLink Center.
It turned out to be the opportunity he had been looking for. Through ChangingGears’ Automotive Technician Training Program at CityLink, Lamont was introduced to a hands-on learning environment that opened his eyes to a new career path.
“The shop tours were huge for me,” Lamont shared. “Seeing how the dealerships worked and getting inside those spaces made everything real.” One visit stood out in particular. “Lexus was my favorite. It was so clean and professional, even the shop. That stuck with me.”
Although he didn’t consider himself a “car guy” at first, Lamont quickly found a passion for learning. He soaked up everything he could, determined to make the most of the opportunity. His hard work paid off. Within just a few weeks of graduating, Lamont secured a job and now works at Kings Toyota, where he works alongside another ChangingGears graduate.
Today, Lamont is not only building a career, he’s building a better life for his family. He’s currently advancing his skills through electrical training classes, learning how to diagnose complex vehicle issues and continuing to grow in his role. “I love learning new things,” he said. “Every day I’m getting better.”
Recently, Lamont reached another major milestone, purchasing a vehicle through ChangingGears. After his previous car broke down and relying on his mom’s vehicle, he now owns a 2010 Nissan Altima, giving him reliable transportation to get to work and support his family. And the impact goes beyond just getting from place to place. “My son loves riding in the new car and going to the park,” Lamont said. “That means a lot.”
His new career has also brought something invaluable: time. With a schedule that better fits family life, Lamont is now home in the evenings and able to tuck his kids into bed, something he couldn’t do working late custodial shifts. Lamont is focused on continuing to grow in his career, working more hours as the shop gets busier and building his expertise as a technician.
When asked what he would say to others considering the program, his answer is simple: “Work hard and learn as much as you can. Everything you learn will help your future. And the people at CityLink and ChangingGears because they really support you.”
