Litzi, a 2024 Fremont High School and ConstructionLink graduate, recently spoke to Fremont High School students about her experiences in the Ed Fund’s ConstructionLink program and how her experiences inspired her to invest in her future. Litzi not only completed the program and her internship with GCI — she now works for them and attends college part-time.
What motivated you to join the ConstructionLink program, and what were you hoping to gain from the experience?
Construction Link was first introduced to my class by Mr. Prober in 2023/2024. Hearing that the program would help me open more ideas about the construction field was exciting. I saw that numerous mentors were interested in helping guide us with their personal experiences. I mainly hoped to make the right decision on choosing college or a trade after I graduated.
How did ConstructionLink shape your skills, confidence, or career goals, and are there specific experiences that stood out to you?
ConstructionLink definitely made me more open to asking questions — being comfortable asking how and why to gain the knowledge that eventually helped me make my decision.
By speaking with different mentors, I learned how they would help motivate me as a female going into a male-dominated environment. They helped me make me feel confident about what I wanted to do, rather than feeling fear, anxiety, or overwhelmed.
I remember when we had a field trip to the NorCal Union training center. It was really a boost of confidence when I was one of the only girls to connect with the program coordinators who offered direct sponsorship. The experience made me believe that all it takes is passion and dedication for what you want to do to succeed.
What was it like transitioning from being a student in the program to now working with one of our partners at GCI?
My transition from being a student in the program to now working with GCI was definitely a change. I feel satisfied that all my hard work through high school, as well as outside of school, was seen by others. I knew from the start that I loved the construction field. My mentor, Coop, was the biggest support I had.
I’ll always be grateful knowing that I was able to share my process post-high school. It’s very emotional for me. I started as a 16-year-old student wanting to figure out if I wanted college or a trade, and now I am an 18-year-old who chooses both a full-time apprenticeship with GCI, as well as college classes.
What advice would you give to future ConstructionLink students who are just starting their journey?
The biggest advice that I would give to future Construction Link students is to never feel like you can’t reach your goals. Anything is possible if you have dedication, discipline, and most importantly, passion, toward the career path you want to take.
Take advantage of the opportunities in this program. Make the connections and, most importantly, transform them into relationships. Every single mentor cares about and believes in you. This program is such a great support system and will bring you huge opportunities.
Whichever path you choose — trade school or college — it will be okay. It’s also okay to change your mind. At the end of the day, choose something you know you have a passion for. If you’re going to decide on a certain career, let it be one you know you will enjoy for the rest of your work life.