Sergio Gonzalez’s Journey

Sergio’s journey began before he was born, when his parents traveled from Mexico at the ages of 17 and 18 to work in the Yakima Valley. Five children followed, with Sergio being number four. Sadly, Sergio’s father was hurt at work when Sergio was still young, and he could no longer support the family as he had. The rest of the family stepped up to help, but it was always made clear by both of their parents that they wanted the children to stay in school, continue their education, and pursue a career: this is how they could truly help their family.
After he graduated from high school, Sergio was able to secure a job in the meat processing industry. Though it was good experience to have, he felt called to do something else and remembered the echoes of his parents encouraging him to continue his education and pursue a career. His journey pushed on as he decided to attend college and chose Yakima Valley College, while continuing to work at his job. His original interest was in becoming a Vineyard Technician and following a similar path to that of his parents. However, after a bit of exposure, he felt drawn to the electrical field. After completing his prerequisites at Yakima Valley College, Sergio transferred to Perry Technical Institute where he entered their Electrical Technology Program.
It was when he was accepted to Perry Technical Institute that he and Kids’ Chance of Washington found each other. He was quickly approved and awarded a scholarship for his first year and then again, his second year. He soaked up the material and thrived in his learning environment.
Like many others when COVID hit, Sergio had to adjust to taking his classes online. This was especially challenging as his later courses typically included more hands-on training and experience. He quickly adapted and took the change in stride, completing his courses as scheduled.

Kids’ Chance of Washington congratulates Sergio on his graduation from Perry Technical Institute in September 2021. Sergio is now employed by Tolman Electric and is already halfway to getting his Journeyman License which requires completing 8,000 hours of work as apprentice to a master electrician and then passing a difficult certification test.

“We salute you, Sergio. We are proud to have been a part of your journey
and can’t wait to see what comes next for you!”

Sergio .. Perry Technical Institute

“After graduating from high school in 2012 I worked a number of jobs and learned I needed more education to get a better job.

Thanks to Kids’ Chance to helping me work towards my electrical program at Perry Technical Institute. School is going great.”

Lyddie Austin .. University of Washington, Environmental Engineering

“Lyddie Austin learned about Kids’ Chance when her father was determined to be totally and permanently disabled. After her father’s debilitating head injury at work, her father became a stay-at-home dad, and her mother returned to school while working to support the family.

I was in the fifth grade when my Dad was injured, and my little sisters were in the second grade. I was ecstatic when I received the call back that I had been chosen as a recipient of the award. It guaranteed me a little bit of financial stability in this troubling time. Pursuing my degree has absolutely changed my life, and it is an incredible opportunity I am so thankful for. None of this would be possible without the generous support of Kids’ Chance. This financial stability guarantees me the chance to succeed. Without it, I wouldn’t be able to focus on academics, and I wouldn’t be able to travel the world. Thank you for your contribution to my education and my life. I am so thankful, and it means the world to me.”

Our 2022 Graduates

Gustavo Contreras’ graduated from Heritage University Gustavo’s path path led him from Sunnyside High School to Columbia Basin College and finally, Heritage University. Gustavo focused on his goal of earning a Baccalaureate degree in Education, and a teaching career in his community of Sunnyside, Washington.

Our 2021 Graduates

Lyddie Austin graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Environmental Engineering and is currently working with an engineering firm in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Alyssa Martinez also graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Community Psychology and a minor in Human Rights. She will be furthering her education in California this fall in merchandising and marketing.

Madison Wood graduated from Seattle Pacific University with a degree in Communications.

Sergio Gonzales graduated from Perry Technical Institute in September and is working as an electrician. He is also well on his way to obtaining his Journeyman License.