MANUEL TORRESis a recent graduate of East Los Angeles Skills Center. He graduated with honors at the top of his class from their Photovoltaic vocational trade program. This program prepared him to seek and secure employment in the solar energy industry.

In May 2022, upon his release from a California State Prison, Manuel created opportunities for success for himself. After being incarcerated, he was scared to be released due to the social stigma placed on formerly incarcerated individuals. Limited in resources and yearning to start a productive life due to generational trauma, he found Homeboy Industries. His own resilience and the hope he found in the programs offered at Homeboy helped him find his own path to success.

Upon graduation, he was offered a permanent full time position at Titan Solar Power. He is now utilizing the skillset learned as a solar panel installer and his goal is to grow in the solar energy industry.

Three important things that he has utilized as a tool for success have been focus, direction and patience. Being consistent in order to persevere have afforded him new opportunities. His hardships have been valuable lessons learned.