At 18 years old, Rico found himself at a crossroads. He worked in food service, but he said life felt boring and stagnant. Like many young people, he dreamed of a successful future but wasn’t sure how to get there. That’s when a family friend shared their experience with Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota’s (GESMN) construction training program—and Rico decided to take the leap.
“I didn’t know what I wanted to do,” Rico recalls. “But then I heard about the construction program and started last February. It was different—the experience helped me figure out who I was.”
A Foundation for Success
GESMN’s construction training program gave Rico more than just technical skills; it provided him with clarity about his future.
“Going through high school, everyone has a dream to be rich, but you don’t really know how,” Rico shares. “This is where I need to be now.”
The 12-week construction training provides hands-on construction skills, industry-recognized certifications, professional coaching, college credits and job placement assistance at no cost to participants.
Today, Rico works at Vinge Tile & Stone, a tile company in Apple Valley, Minnesota. He specializes in grouting and finish work, creating polished showers, backsplashes, fireplaces and floors. After just eight months on the job, Rico earned two raises, allowing him buy his first car.
“I wanted to do a finishing trade and I really like it,” Rico says. “The program was like real life—they only help you if you want to be helped, but they never give up on you. It helped me focus and keep on the path to see I have a future. And they gave us the business aspect, too.”
A Career Navigator Makes the Difference
Rico credits much of his success to Julie, his GESMN career navigator.
“Julie is amazing. She taught me everything. I probably would have quit if not for her,” Rico admits. “She taught me how to make a resume, helped with credit and found jobs that were a great fit.”
For Julie, watching Rico grow has been inspiring.
“Rico has worked so hard,” Julie says. “The program is a roller coaster of emotions, with so many decisions—it can be overwhelming. But Rico has excelled. He calls and tells me what he’s doing. He has goals and knows where he wants to go.”
Rico also qualified for the Ramsey County Green Construction Learn & Earn grant (for young adults ages 18-30 who are Ramsey County residents) to get additional stipends for meeting program milestones which made a big difference in completing the training successfully and preparing for employment.
Looking Ahead
Rico’s journey is just beginning. He plans to continue getting more experience at Vinge Tile & Stone but hopes to return to school to further his education with the goal of eventually opening his own business.
As a volunteer member of Goodwill International’s Youth Advisory Council, Rico is already giving back. The council meets monthly to discuss how young people can help shape the future of Goodwill. Rico even attended Goodwill Industries International’s Skilled Trades and Clean Tech Summit in Nashville in October 2024, where he learned from other Goodwills across the country.
Advice for Others
For people considering GESMN’s construction training, Rico has one simple message: It is worth it.
“As long as you put your time and dedication in, it will work out,” he says. “I was the youngest in my program at 18, but it’s a good environment. You are going to learn a lot. Don’t give up.”
Learn more about the nearly 20 services and programs GESMN offers and the impact these programs by creating career opportunities.
Pictured: Rico (left) attended Goodwill Industries International’s Skilled Trades and Clean Tech Summit in Nashville in October 2024 as a Goodwill International Youth Advisory Council member with Becky Brink, director of GESMN's Career Training and Education programs.