Judith | JobTrain

Judith O.

Judith O. came to the United States from Lagos, Nigeria to earn her college degree and embark upon a new life.

Unlike many people that emigrate from their native countries to America with limited resources, Judith was fortunate to have the financial support of her family. She was therefore in a unique position to select exactly where she wanted to live and go to school.

After earning her college degree and working successfully as a Senior Accountant and environmental entrepreneur, Judith wanted more from life. She'd been in the United States for more than 30 years, and endured the hardship of two failed marriages. It was now her time to recognize her full potential - and to develop a purposeful life.

Judith combined her passion for the environment, business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit to launch her own business. She now designs and sells solar chargers through her company Molar Solar. The solar chargers are designed for both mobile phones and laptops and are sold via Amazon.com.

Although Judith has greatly enjoyed living in the United States, her heart remains in Nigeria. She's often plagued with guilt for living a life of comfort; while so many Nigerians are without the basic amenities of life.

Remaining idle with active and traumatizing thoughts of suffering Nigerians being without electricity to cook food, wash clothes and simply live their lives - was no longer an option for Judith. She decided to take action and began devising her own version of affordable solar panels which would (i) withstand the scorching Nigerian climate and (ii) alleviate the harsh living conditions abroad.

However, Judith soon realized she needed specialized training in order to launch her business model. She began searching for universities that offered joint curriculum in solar training and weatherization. To Judith's dismay, there were no such joint degree programs combining these specific areas of expertise. This was a temporary roadblock in Judith's ultimate path to success.

One random day, Judith discovered JobTrain's ad on Craigslist for Solar Training. She immediately contacted their counselor to learn more. Judith asked several questions about the organization and Solar Program before deciding to visit JobTrain.

When Judith met Tom Huggett, JobTrain's Solar Program instructor, she automatically realized she found the perfect place to gain requisite training and skills. Judith chose JobTrain because she'd gain hands-on experience working on real projects utilizing the latest technologies. At JobTrain, Judith recognized she'd be acknowledged as a person and not just another number occupying space in a large classroom.

According to Judith, "Unlike my university experience, JobTrain gives students real attention. They invest in each and every single student. They provide us with real practical training by arranging special site visits - through their partnership with GRID Alternatives. Thankfully, JobTrain doesn't rely on textbook training alone - but places a premium on hands-on experience."

On January 27, 2010, Judith completed her training in the Solar Program and participated in the graduation ceremony with 91 of her peers.

Now, Judith intends to return to Nigeria and share the knowledge and skills developed through JobTrain's Solar Program with her country. It's her dream to open a school that teaches solar training and specifically targets women for the profession. She wants Nigerian women to know that they can pursue any career!