Yuliya Chernyshevs moved to the United States from Russia and was looking for a new start. She had a background in construction, but needed assistance in transitioning her career over to her new country.
“I graduated from a construction university in Russia and worked as an estimating engineer,” she explained. “I was really eager to continue in this field here in the U.S., but it’s difficult for immigrants to maintain the same positions they held in their home country.”
Yuliya was able to connect with the Goodwill Construction Skills Training Center and sign up for the Construction Basics training program. While taking the course, she had to adapt to the U.S. measurement system and learn English too.
“One of the biggest challenges for engineers from Europe is adapting to the measurement system, new materials and construction software used in the U.S.,” she said. “A basic construction course is ideal for facilitating the transition to the American construction market. For new immigrants who face language barriers, the Goodwill Construction Skills Training Center is an excellent place to improve their construction-related English.”
As part of the Goodwill tuition-free training programs, participants also have access to wraparound services. Dedicated Career Navigators partner with each participant to help them with career-building skills. Yuliya’s Career Navigator Robert Johnson helped her navigate this process.
“Robert helped me tremendously, from writing my resume to practicing for interviews. After completing the basic construction course, I had a major surgery and a long recovery. During that time, Robert and I continued to connect over Zoom, practicing interview skills. The main challenge wasn’t just the language but also the difference in mindset. In Russia, there isn’t as much emphasis on soft skills. Now I understand how important they are because here, you’re not just joining a job, but becoming part of a family.”
Another benefit from participating in Goodwill’s training programs is access to the Employer Engagement team. Assistance from this team helped Yuliya secure a position as an Estimator at Blythe Construction.
“Goodwill invited me to a job fair where I met Blythe Construction. They scheduled an interview for me quite quickly. Goodwill even called the recruiter to ask how the interview went and gave them positive feedback about me. Just a couple of days later, I was invited for a second interview at Blythe Construction Headquarters with the Chief Estimator. Coincidentally, it was International Women’s Week, and on March 8, I received my job offer,” she exclaimed.
Yuliya was able to enter the construction field again, which gave her stable footing to start her life in the United States.
“It was a major turning point for me—I secured a stable job, which allowed me to get my first home loan. This was a huge victory for me. I continue to grow and learn a lot. I’ve also been given the opportunity to attend training for a project engineer position in Blythe Construction, where I’m gaining fundamental knowledge.”
Tuition-free training programs, like the one Yuliya took, are made possible due to shopping and donating in our 36 retail stores, along with philanthropic contributions from donors.
“Getting education for free is life-changing,” she emphasized. “It removes financial stress and gives people a chance to grow and improve their skills without worrying about money. For many, especially immigrants, it means a real opportunity to rebuild their careers and move forward. It’s not just about learning—it’s about opening doors to better opportunities and creating a brighter future.”
If you’d like to contribute to funding Goodwill’s tuition-free programs and services, consider dropping off your gently used donations at one of our locations or making a financial contribution.
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