Student Spotlight—Meet Charles Vasquez Jr.

Charles Vasquez Jr. exemplifies the transformative potential of education and skills development in New York City. Born in Brooklyn in 1978 to first-generation Puerto Rican parents, challenges have defined Charles’s life, which he has faced head-on. Yet, his story is not about the adversities he faced but rather about his unwavering determination and drive to create a better future for himself and his family.

Growing up in a rapidly changing family environment prompted Charles to seek stability through education. Despite various barriers, he maintained a profound love for learning. Local libraries became his refuge, and he eventually earned his GED before pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming. Personal circumstances interrupted his pursuit of a four-year degree, but Charles remained committed to building a career capable of supporting his family.

With the arrival of his daughter, the pressure to provide compelled Charles to pivot his career path into Information Technology. Embracing the opportunities in this dynamic field, he gained extensive experience over the past 15 years, wearing many hats, from desktop administration to network support. He has taken on a variety of responsibilities, including managing network appliances, servers (particularly email and web, as well as Linux), troubleshooting, user administration, and security. There were even moments when he stepped into programming roles—his dream position—where he successfully utilized web services to build a category system, though a following recession slowed down further progress.

While he aspired to complete his education, the urgency of his responsibilities meant he had to prioritize immediate employment. “I found IT jobs to be a bit quicker to get into. I was a new dad, and I took the first opportunity that made an offer. Although programming is my passion, I enjoy troubleshooting issues as well,” reflects Charles.

A significant turning point arrived when Charles learned about IBM’s SkillsBuild through Per Scholas. This platform provided him access to free, comprehensive courses that offered the technical skills needed to compete in today’s digital environment. The program’s interactive lessons on data analysis, Python programming, and AI fundamentals equipped him with essential knowledge and tools to advance his career. “I love the way the courses are structured and how easy it is to see my progress. The combination of videos and interactive questions really helps to make connections,” explains Charles.

IBM SkillsBuild ignited new fuel to help him pursue his dream career. Earning badges that demonstrated his competencies enhanced his employability, providing him with tangible proof of his skills. Charles emphasizes the relevance of the knowledge he gained: “I now understand a lot more about AI, particularly the role data plays in it. It’s the new gold rush and is vital to AI. I felt it was valuable to learn as much as I could. I recommend the program to everyone—my colleagues, even strangers on the subway! It empowers people to learn technology, professional skills, and AI on their own while earning badges that bear the name IBM.”

Today, Charles works as a Desktop Support Specialist II in the healthcare sector. He recognizes that while he is qualified for various roles within IT, the field is competitive, and continuous education and skill development are essential for career growth. His experience with IBM has reinforced the importance of lifelong learning, enabling him to adapt and thrive in a constantly evolving industry.

As we observe Hispanic Heritage Month, Charles’s journey highlights the critical role of education and skills training in empowering individuals from all communities. His story serves as a compelling reminder that with the right support and determination, people can reshape their future and contribute meaningfully to the workforce.

Charles Vasquez Jr.’s path underscores the need for accessible educational resources and skill-building programs. As he continues to navigate his career in IT, Charles stands as a motivating example for those looking to unlock their potential through education and hard work.