Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration comes from years of welding education experience. I believe welding training can be streamlined, focused, and driven to produce real careers. My vision is to help turn homeless communities into thriving working communities through welding education using container-style classrooms and shelters. Our infrastructure will be built from 100% recycled shipping containers/seacans to keep costs low and impact high.

How do you stay motivated?

My motivation comes from my family and the young eyes looking up to me. I want to show them that forging your own path is possible if you chase what you’re passionate about. I’m driven to share my 20 years of experience as a traveling welder with younger generations and anyone who needs a second chance at building a better life. Through welding education turning into career jobs!

What would you do with the $25,000?

I’m currently working with the city to open my first welding education facility. All profits will help fund the launch of our first brick-and-mortar welding training center, which will be the first of its kind in Pekin, Illinois. The goal is to create opportunities for people to learn a skilled trade and build strong careers through hands-on welding education.