At the Goodwill Career & Technical Academy (GCTA), we believe that when students receive comprehensive support and experience a sense of belonging on campus and in the classroom, they’re more likely to complete their training, earn a certification, and secure meaningful employment. They’re also more likely to persist through life’s challenges.
The GCTA Team is focused on building an inclusive community where all students — particularly students facing obstacles to educational or employment opportunities — feel empowered. After graduating, many students stay in contact with their classmates, as well as instructors and staff. It’s a strong support network where alumni can reach out for continued career guidance.
Meet John Phillips
John had a burning desire to do more and start a new career journey in which he felt satisfied and meaning. That was where the perfect
opportunity arrived via the Salvation Army, where John initiated this change and began his journey by enrolling in the Medical Assistant program at the Goodwill Career & Technical Academy. Like with any new journey, there was bound to be some hurdles John had to overcome such as not being in school for 20 years and finding the strength to believe in his ability and who he was. It was during the rigorous practice of venipuncture where during his first stick, John knew he was meant for this and could tackle anything along his path.
During this program John realized that regardless of age or background, he alongside all his classmates are on this journey together. With the assistance of the instructor Rachion, John and his classmates were pulled out of their shell and revealed what their true potential is. Every day is a hurdle, but if you have the desire and the ambition to do it, nothing will get in the way of what you truly want. From his hands on training, lessons, and ability to dive into the healthcare field, John feels this is his calling for the betterment of not only himself but humanity. He intends to climb the next stages of nursing and become a registered nurse focusing on pediatric cancer and cancer patients. Throughout this experience, John summarizes this endeavor by stating that for him, he is living out the future today.
Taishem Stroder
For many, the idea of starting over in a new career can feel overwhelming—but for Taishem, it was a calling. After working in a field that no longer
fulfilled him, he made the bold decision to pursue a new path—one driven not just by personal growth, but by a deep desire to serve and give back to his community. Taishem stated that he felt hopeless, but when the opportunity came with the GCTA and the Salvation Army, he accepted the challenge. With determination, resilience, and a clear sense of purpose, Taishem transformed uncertainty into opportunity.
He was able to enroll in the Electric Helper program at Goodwill Career & Technical Academy. By doing so, this was an investment in himself by acquiring knowledge and skills that are going to stand the test of time. Electricity, while used in everyday life, is not everyone’s calling to work in, but it was for Taishem. The further he progressed in his journey, the more he grew attached to this trade and cherished the opportunity to learn something new every day. With any journey comes the blockades, but these were overcome by consistent studying, being punctual in everything he did and reflecting upon his studies every day.
The class is nothing with the instructor, which Taishem credits Ted for making the class what it is, and a core experience of his electric helper journey. Following graduation, it took Taishem only 3 days to get a job offer. He’s starting his electrical journey as an electrical apprentice for Facility Solutions Group. Taishem is an excellent example of what’s possible when you combine your heart and passion within yourself.
Meet Donya
Donya was steadfastly attending college in Houston when, one day, she was devastated to discover that she could not continue her studies. In 11th and 12th grade, Donya had been home-schooled and, unfortunately, due to certain technical specifications, her high school diploma was deemed invalid.
During this time, when Donya had been diligently working to improve her life, she was also dealing with domestic violence. She knew she needed to remove herself from the situation and, with the determination to rise above her challenges, she moved to Austin in search of opportunity. She wanted to start a new life, and her first step was earning a high school diploma. Donya researched numerous high school programs but knew she had found the one she wanted at The Goodwill Excel Center. With hard work and diligence, Donya graduated after just ten months and was even named 2019 Prom Queen!
But Donya wasn’t about to leave Goodwill just yet. She was interested in pursuing training for a career certification and, just before graduation, enrolled in the Goodwill Career & Technical Academy (GCTA). First, she completed training as a Nursing Assistant and earned her certification (CNA). After that, knowing she would increase her competitive advantage, she completed the Phlebotomy course and obtained that certification, as well.
Looking back on her experience, Donya says the GCTA Faculty stands out to her the most. “They were always so positive and really kept me going.” Despite working 11-hour overnight shifts while concurrently attending GCTA classes, Donya still managed to complete her training and pass both certification exams! Her teachers were always understanding and inspired her to push through. “The teachers are motivating, and they teach you how to succeed.”
Towards the end of her phlebotomy course, the students were connected to some healthcare-related employers for job opportunities, one of which was a mobile testing company. The hiring managers were so impressed with Donya that they offered her a job on the spot! Now she’s happy to be working in the industry for which she had worked so hard.
Donya intends to return to the GCTA and complete training as a Medical Assistant so that she can earn another career credential. With all of her training and experience, her ultimate goal is to be become a Registered Nurse and continue a rewarding career in healthcare. “Goodwill has a lot of opportunities for people if you put your mind to it. You just have to get up and go after your dream.”
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