Some stories are written in the quiet moments of a decision – the moment someone decides that “good enough” isn’t enough anymore. For Danyel Smith, that moment arrived two years ago, marking the start of a journey that would take her from uncertainty to a high-powered career in a technical field.

Danyel’s path wasn’t just about professional gain; it was deeply personal. She carried with her the memory of her grandfather, a man whose work in the electrical trade left a lasting legacy. She wanted to follow in his footsteps, but the distance between a dream and a paycheck can often feel like unattainable.

This is where Danyel’s determination met the mission of Goodwill. While Danyel provided the spark, Goodwill provided the wiring.

Through career coaching and resource navigation, Goodwill stood by Danyel as she tackled the first major hurdle: her education. In 2024, she successfully earned her GED, a milestone that opened the doors to higher learning. With the foundational support of Goodwill’s workforce development programs, she didn’t just enroll in college – she excelled.

Goodwill’s role was to ensure that the barriers which often stop talented individuals – like access to training and career placement – were cleared away, allowing Danyel’s natural gift to ignite.

Today, Danyel isn’t just working in the electrical technician field; she is leading in it. She recently accepted a position with Condustrial as a Circuit Lead Technician. Starting at $27/hour, she has secured more than a job – she has secured a future.

As Danyel steps onto the job site each day, she carries more than just her tools; she carries her grandfather’s legacy and the pride of someone who refused to give up. Her journey from GED student to Circuit Lead Technician is a powerful reminder about what can happen when an individual’s perseverance is backed by a community that believes in them.

If you’re inspired by success stories like Danyel’s and want to help make a difference in the lives of individuals seeking a career and independence, visit our Donate Online page and be a vital part of the Goodwill mission!