From Smog Technician to Tech Consultant: Julian Gonzalez's Inspiring Journey

What if you could transform your career from a grueling, heat-soaked job to a thriving position in tech, all during a global pandemic? Julian Gonzalez did just that. Join us as we discuss Julian's inspiring journey from being a smog technician in Fresno, California, to becoming a Development Consultant within the ServiceNow ecosystem. Despite facing countless rejections, Julian's determination to complete his associate's degree and seize a rare software development apprenticeship opportunity showcases the power of perseverance, mentorship, and non-traditional career pathways. 

Hear firsthand how Julian's experience in an accelerated coding program reshaped his problem-solving skills and productivity. He opens up about the financial and personal triumphs that came with his first paycheck from Uplift, and the pivotal role his mentor, Joshua Shapiro, played in his success. This episode also highlights the importance of skills-first hiring and innovative learning pathways in tech, alongside a fun reveal of Julian's favorite snack—Thai milk tea. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the future of modern apprenticeships and how they can revolutionize lives and careers.