STERLING WALKER

Sterling Walker has broken down barriers and paved a new path for his life, and is well on his way to achieving his career goals thanks in large part to the support of the Emily Griffith Foundation. Sterling's journey demonstrates the transformative power of education and community involvement.

Sterling Walker's love for welding ignited at a young age, kindled by his older brother's career as a metallurgist. He fondly recalls the time he crafted a skid plate for his father's truck, setting the stage for a future filled with sparks and molten metal. Yet, despite his passion, Sterling experienced a series of jobs that offered little promise for career advancement and left him trapped in the cycle of living paycheck to paycheck. Sterling resolved to change his life's trajectory. He recognized the potential within the world of skilled trades, an industry that could offer him both stability and room for growth.

Sterling is not just a passionate welder but also an individual who has successfully overcome the challenges of being justice-involved. This transition was made possible through the Mile High United Way's "Bridging the Gap" program, dedicated to helping young adults like Sterling transition out of the child welfare and juvenile courts systems.

As Sterling's life took a turn for the better, his case worker, LaChaunda Cook, played a pivotal role in his journey. Under her guidance, Sterling enrolled in the Welding program at Emily Griffith Technical College. However, Sterling's dreams required more than just enrollment; they demanded financial support to make them a reality. This is where the Emily Griffith Foundation became a vital piece of the puzzle.

Thanks to a partnership between the Emily Griffith Foundation and the Bridging the Gap program, Sterling secured scholarships that covered his tuition. He also received a scholarship from the Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative’s Back to Work grant program, as well as 360 Funds, a lifeline that ensured his ability to cover transportation costs and essential program supplies and equipment throughout his studies.

"Being introduced to a new career that you're investing time into, it's good to have that support," Sterling said. "It makes you believe that other people have that investment in you as well, and builds confidence… I'm doing this full-time, so I can't work full-time… it's a big help."

Sterling 's tenacity paid off: he recently completed the Welding program and, mere hours after his last day of class, he had an interview that could set him on the path to becoming a structural welder.

Sterling's ambitions don't stop there. He envisions his graduation from Emily Griffith as a stepping stone to even greater heights. He plans to join the Pipefitters Union and eventually undertake an apprenticeship in this field. Sterling serves as an example of the potential that can be unlocked when individuals receive the right support, resources, and opportunities. His story is just one of thousands that demonstrate the impact of an Emily Griffith education combined with community engagement and support. 

“Despite encountering obstacles and challenges over the last few years, Sterling has been incredibly resilient and has shown that with determination and support, even the most challenging paths can lead to success,” said LaChaunda Cook of Mile High United Way. “His story, like the partnership between Bridging the Gap and Emily Griffith, exemplifies the powerful impact of education and community collaboration.”