Meet Aurora Rodriguez
Skilled Trades and Readiness (STAR) Program Graduate in Construction
Aurora Rodriguez has already built the foundation for a strong career. She credits her mom for giving her the strength and the gumption to begin pursuing her goals and dreams early. Her mom came to the United States from Honduras right after 9/11, and has worked the same job for the same salary since she began, working days and nights and taking the bus everywhere. This inspired Aurora to aim higher. She finished high school online so she could start working full time her sophomore year. “Everything I do is so she can have a better life and retirement.”
Aurora always knew she wanted to work in the trades and began in welding. However, it became a challenge physically and financially to continue that work. She moved into logistical roles, yet a career in the trades still called to Aurora.
That’s when she heard about Google’s Skilled Trades and Readiness (STAR) Program in Construction at Northern Virginia Community College. She completed the program in 2024, which has led to more project management opportunities at her job and a desire to go back to school and earn a four-year degree. Aurora’s mom is surely beaming with pride. “I remember the tough times, that no matter what, my mom made sure I pushed through.”
Aurora always knew she wanted to work in the trades and began in welding. However, it became a challenge physically and financially to continue that work. She moved into logistical roles, yet a career in the trades still called to Aurora.
That’s when she heard about Google’s Skilled Trades and Readiness (STAR) Program in Construction at Northern Virginia Community College. She completed the program in 2024, which has led to more project management opportunities at her job and a desire to go back to school and earn a four-year degree. Aurora’s mom is surely beaming with pride. “I remember the tough times, that no matter what, my mom made sure I pushed through.”
I came from a logistical background from Amazon to UPS stores. I was trying to prepare going back to school...and then I came upon the STAR Program.
The STAR Program is making a difference in communities. It is giving opportunities to people who probably felt stuck just like I did.
— AURORA RODRIGUEZ
