New Direction: Bryttanie’s Story
Before coming to City of Refuge, Bryttanie was carrying the weight of uncertainty while trying to build a stable life for herself and her daughter. Financial pressure and limited career opportunities made it difficult to see a clear path forward. She knew she wanted more for her family, but finding the right opportunity felt overwhelming at times. Even in the middle of those challenges, Bryttanie kept searching for something that could truly change the direction of her life and her daughter’s life. That search led her to City of Refuge’s Welding Program.
She wanted more than just a paycheck. She wanted a career that offered stability, growth, and long-term opportunity. The idea of learning a skilled trade and building something with her hands gave her hope for a different future, one where she could provide for her daughter with confidence and security.
When Bryttanie entered the program, welding was completely unfamiliar territory. But through hands-on training and daily practice, she began developing both technical skills and confidence in herself. She learned the fundamentals of welding, shop safety, grinding, and MIG welding, gaining real-world experience that prepared her to step into the workforce. More importantly, the program challenged her personally.
“Welding isn’t something you master overnight,” Bryttanie shared. “It takes consistency and focus.”
Over time, she learned discipline, patience, and perseverance. The experience pushed her beyond her comfort zone and showed her that she was capable of learning something entirely new and succeeding at it. A major part of that growth came through the encouragement and mentorship she received from City of Refuge’s welding instructor, Mr. Calvin. Bryttanie says his leadership and passion for teaching created an environment where students felt supported while also being challenged to grow.
“He took the time to make sure we understood the work and believed in our ability to succeed, even on the days when we doubted ourselves,” she said.
Today, Bryttanie’s life looks dramatically different. After completing the program, she stepped into the workforce as a welder with a global company, opening doors that once felt out of reach. What once felt uncertain is now being replaced with stability, opportunity, and momentum toward a stronger future for her and her daughter. Because of City of Refuge, Bryttanie says she now has something she did not have before: direction, confidence, and purpose.
“This experience has opened my eyes to what’s possible for my future,” she shared. “Now I’m able to dream bigger than I ever imagined and actually believe I can achieve it.”
Through City of Refuge’s workforce development programs, individuals like Bryttanie are gaining more than technical certifications. They are building stable careers, renewed confidence, and brighter futures for themselves and their families.
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