“People here will go above and beyond to see you succeed. It motivates me. It may seem like an uphill battle now, but everybody is encouraging you to ‘keep on showing up’”.
Edward L. discovered New Century Careers while searching for job opportunities online through Craigslist. With prior experience in manufacturing, including working in a steel mill and on production lines, he saw the MANUFACTURING 2000 Quick-Train program as an opportunity to refine his skills and re-enter the industry. His love for cars—fabricating, detailing, and driving—fueled his decision to explore manufacturing further, aligning with his long-term career interests.
Throughout his training at the Homewood location and now at New Century Careers’ South Side facility, Edward has excelled in hands-on machining. He finds great satisfaction in transforming raw materials into finished products, describing the process as similar to engineering. The ability to see tangible results from his efforts has reinforced his enthusiasm for the field.
Edward’s participation in an information session with partner company, Premier Pan particularly resonated with him when he learned that one of the company’s presenters started in the industry at age 35 and built a successful career over 17 years. This realization encouraged Edward, who recently turned 31, reinforcing his belief that dedication and hard work in manufacturing can create long-term financial stability for his family.
One of the most impactful aspects of Edward’s experience has been the support system at New Century Careers. He appreciates the staff’s genuine investment in student success, recognizing that they “go above and beyond” to help trainees advance. The encouragement from instructors and peers has motivated him to persist through challenges and continue showing up, even when the path ahead feels difficult.
Edward has always had a passion for the automotive industry, having studied automotive technology in school. A recent moment of inspiration came while watching a Toyota commercial—realizing that his training could lead him to a career in automotive manufacturing. Researching opportunities, he found that Toyota has a manufacturing plant just an hour away in West Virginia. He now envisions a future where he applies his machining skills in the automotive sector, working for a company that aligns with his interests.
Edward’s journey through the MANUFACTURING 2000 program exemplifies how training, industry exposure, and strong support systems can help individuals transition into fulfilling careers. His story highlights the impact of hands-on learning, credentialing, and mentorship in opening doors to new opportunities. With his dedication and the foundation built at New Century Careers, Edward is well on his way to achieving his goal of working in automotive manufacturing.
