Jorge Valdez

Jorge Valdez started volunteering with GRID in February of 2012. At that time Jorge was pursuing a degree in alternative energy technology, living out of his car, and working long shifts at a warehouse making as little as eight dollars an hour. Jorge had ambition – he wanted to get into the solar industry, and volunteering with GRID gave him the opportunity to learn about each step of the installation process and gain the experience that he needed to pursue his dream career. After completing Team Leader training, Jorge landed a job with a for-profit solar company – he says he felt a lot of pride driving a company truck and leading his own crew. After working in the private solar industry, Jorge realized he could make a greater impact by starting his own company and providing folks with the kind of job training that he had benefited from so much. With this new goal, Jorge went on to earn an associate’s degree and is now studying to be an electrical contractor. Jorge calls GRID a “company of opportunity” and credits the GRID team in Los Angeles for giving him the chance to work hard and get to where he is today. Jorge still volunteers for GRID and is working toward his dream of starting his own business.