In 2015, Laura set out to pursue a career in technology, fueled by her passion for innovation and a desire to make a meaningful impact. But the road ahead was anything but smooth. Between 2016 and 2019, she faced overwhelming personal and professional hardships—a difficult divorce, job loss, and the devastating passing of her mother. Just as she began rebuilding her life, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 added yet another obstacle.
Despite these setbacks, Laura remained determined to break into the tech industry. She worked tirelessly to earn her Programming/Developer Assistant certification, but landing a job in the field proved to be an uphill battle. She submitted nearly a thousand applications, facing rejection after rejection. In March 2019, she finally secured a part-time role with The Salvation Army, where her perseverance led to a promotion as store manager.
This experience opened the door to a retail manager position at Goodwill, but her ultimate goal remained: transitioning into the tech industry. However, without hands-on experience or a portfolio of projects, breaking in seemed impossible. Yet, she refused to give up. Motivated by her daughter and her belief that women belong in STEM, Laura stayed the course.
Her breakthrough moment came during a key holder meeting at Goodwill headquarters, where IT leadership announced an internal opportunity with training options. Laura jumped at the chance. Her persistence paid off—she landed the IT role she had been striving for.
Once in the position, she earned her CompTIA A+ certification and began working toward her CCST Networking certification, strengthening her technical expertise. Today, Laura thrives in a job she calls the best work environment she has ever experienced. She feels deeply grateful to be part of a supportive team, joking that it took her a year to believe she got the interview and another year to believe she got the job.
Her journey is a powerful testament to perseverance, resilience, and the courage to push through fear and uncertainty. Now, in a role that fosters her growth, she applies new knowledge daily, with a manager who values her dedication to learning.
Laura’s story is more than a personal victory—it’s an inspiration to other women striving to enter STEM fields. Thanks to the opportunities at Goodwill North Central Texas, she has not only achieved her dreams but also paved the way for others to follow.