Maria Rodriguez never imagined that losing her restaurant job during the pandemic would lead to the best career opportunity of her life. Today, just 14 months later, she's earning $75,000 annually as a certified EV charging infrastructure specialist.
The Challenge: Starting Over at 35
When the restaurant where Maria had worked as a manager for eight years closed permanently in March 2024, she found herself facing an uncertain future. As a single mother of two, the pressure to find stable, well-paying work was overwhelming.
"I had management experience, but mostly in hospitality," Maria recalls. "I knew I needed skills that were future-proof, something that couldn't be easily automated or outsourced."
Discovery: Finding ChargeUpTalent
While researching career options that offered growth potential, Maria learned about the explosive growth in the EV industry. A friend shared a social media post about ChargeUpTalent's EVC Infrastructure Specialist program.
"What attracted me most was the combination of hands-on technical training and guaranteed job placement support. I needed something concrete, not just another certificate."
The Transformation: 12 Weeks to a New Career
Maria enrolled in the EVC program in June 2024. The intensive 12-week curriculum covered everything from electrical fundamentals to advanced charging system diagnostics.
"The instructors were industry professionals who understood what employers actually needed," she explains. "We weren't just learning theory – we were installing real charging equipment and troubleshooting actual problems."
Key Learning Areas:
- Electrical systems and safety protocols
- DC fast charging technology
- Network diagnostics and troubleshooting
- Customer service and communication
- Project management fundamentals
The Outcome: Landing Her Dream Job
Before graduation, Maria had already secured a position with EVgo, one of the nation's largest charging network operators. Her starting salary of $65,000 included comprehensive benefits and a clear path for advancement.
"Within six months, I received my first promotion to Senior Infrastructure Specialist," Maria shares. "My salary increased to $75,000, and I'm now training new technicians."
Looking Forward: A Bright Future
Maria's story illustrates the transformative power of targeted skills training. She's now planning to pursue additional certifications in renewable energy systems and is considering starting her own consulting business.
"My kids see me excited about work for the first time in years," she reflects. "I'm not just earning good money – I'm part of building the future of transportation."
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