Zackary: A New Trade, a New Beginning

A San Antonio native, Zackary grew up with financial struggles. After high school, he got into trouble with the law, which led him to reflect on his choices. Determined to change his life, he took responsibility and found strength in his faith and opportunity through Goodwill.  

Recently, while donating plasma to earn some money, Zackary came across a piece of paper that would change the course of his future. The piece of paper was a flyer for Goodwill San Antonio’s Construction Boot Camp.  

“I remember seeing street banners about Goodwill’s programs over the years, so when I saw that flyer, I took it as a sign from God,” Zackary said. “I folded the flyer, put it in my pocket.” 

While waiting at the bus stop, Zackary pulled the flyer from his pocket and made a phone call. Something told me to call right then and there,” Zackary said. He knew that if he didn’t call right away, he might keep putting it off or not make the call at all. 

His call connected him with Brandon, the program’s Recruitment and Admissions Specialist, who took the time to guide him through the enrollment process and made him feel welcome from the start. For Zackary, he appreciated being treated with kindness and without judgment as he took that first step. 

Zackary had recently lost a job that he had hoped would be a fresh start and had since struggled to find steady work. The no-cost Construction Boot Camp offered by Goodwill gave him a chance to gain new skills and pursue a career in construction. 

 With encouragement from his instructor, Byron, Zackary took the opportunity seriously, completing his homework, taking notes, and asking questions throughout the training. 

Today, Zackary has earned his OSHA and NCCER Core Curriculum certifications and was invited to serve as the student speaker at the Construction Boot Camp ribbon-cutting ceremony. There, he shared his journey to Goodwill and how his experience in the program inspired him to encourage his younger brother to enroll in the next cohort. 

Now, Zackary is working with Andrea, a Goodwill Career Specialist, who has helped him create his first resume and is supporting his search for a job in construction. With training behind him and help taking the next step, he is looking forward to putting his new skills to work. 

“I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished, and I’m ready to put what I’ve learned to work,” said Zackary.

By Yvonne Byrd, Senior Manager of Brand Communications

When you shop and donate at Goodwill San Antonio, you help people like Zackary gain skills and prepare for new opportunities. Learn more about our education and career services here.