Wimauma class empowers Hispanic people with labor skills during uncertain time

Mireidy Hernandez knows about the struggle to survive.

She came to the United States from Guatemala eight years ago, escaping the violence and poverty of her country. She worked in the fields, picking tomatoes for $9 per hour. She started at 5 a.m. and worked until late afternoon, sometimes at locations two hours away from her home in Wimauma.

But Hernandez, 27, dreamed of becoming a subcontractor in the construction industry. Four months ago, she took her first steps towards that goal.

“I want to become independent and earn more money to take care of my family,” she said. “It is my big dream.”

Classes like this one at Enterprising Latinas in Wimauma are giving some Latinos hope during an uncertain time. Industries like construction have been engulfed in the political storm surrounding immigration and new laws signed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in recent months. After this five-month course, graduates walk away with credentials and skills they’ll need to feel more secure in a shifting workplace.

Hernandez is one of the most enthusiastic students. Hillsborough County’s Affordable Housing Services pays for the program. STEM Xposure, a local nonprofit organization that introduces minority residents to careers in construction, architecture, and science, supports the program.

The program equips low-income residents like Hernandez with more opportunities such as better-paying jobs in construction, said Elizabeth Gutierrez, founder of Enterprising Latinas. It covers essential topics, such as carpentry, drywall installation, painting, construction math, and employment readiness skills. Graduates earn safety credentials and certifications from the National Center for Construction Education and Research.

Leslie Macao, a certified trainer and member of Enterprising Latinas, said the construction training transforms people’s lives.

“Many live in fear due to a lack of knowledge,” said Macao, 32.

For her, the sense of solidarity and commitment among the students reflects their dedication and effort to move forward and feel more competitive in the job market.

“It not only helps them learn new skills, but also understand their rights and responsibilities in their work and community,” said Macao.

Hernandez, a mother of two kids, hopes that others will find success and more opportunities in the field.

In Florida, there are more than 1.8 million immigrants, including those without permanent status. Of the total labor force, immigrants represent 11%, but account for the largest share in certain industries such as construction, where they make up 23%, according to a recent KFF Health News analysis of a 2021 U.S. Census report.

Another student, Jose Luis Pedraza, 46, a Cuban immigrant who lives in Brandon, and Puerto Rican Elias Rosario, 52, of Riverview, said that being enrolled in the program makes them feel empowered.

“I am also fortunate to be here because as an immigrant, I came with a desire to grow,” said Pedraza. “The more one knows, the better prepared we will be,” Rosario said.