Uri Saenz, who was born in Chihuahua, Mexico and raised in Chicago, came to National Able Network with the mission to get his career back on track. Although only in his 20’s Uri had already accomplished plenty – from graduating college with a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Economics to working in marketing research to owning his own business to purchasing his very own ranch in Mexico. Uri is a well-rounded individual with an array of passions, so when coming to National Able Network he sought some guidance on entering a new field and finding employment within that field – he achieved that, and so much more.
Most recently before becoming a National Able Network client, Uri owned and operated a luxury automotive and detailing company. His business was so successful that a local competitor offered to purchase the company. Although Uri did not consider it at first, circumstances in his personal life changed, and Uri decided he wanted a fresh start. He went through with the sale, returned to Mexico, and spent time on his ranch. Almost a year and a half later, while walking through the mountainside, Uri felt it was the right time to dive all-in and pursue his career dream of being in the Information Technology (IT) field.
Upon his return to Chicago, Uri attempted to find employment, although it was difficult, especially because of the gap on his resume, so he applied for several programs with National Able Network, including: Employment Opportunities, Personalized Services, Individualized Training, Career Planning (EPIC), Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and IT Career Lab. Luckily, Uri was eligible and suitable for all three! He had experience fixing computers, working with java, and telecom, so he got to work with his career coach Kelsey Briggs-Dineen, and revised his resume. During this time, Uri began to study to for his certifications from IT Career Lab.
“I had to be open. Kelsey helped me understand my skills, like time management. I was learning to embrace the abyss, learning to trust in the guidance. Kelsey was on my behind every day and was the main reason I trusted the program,” says Uri. Upon completion of IT Career Lab, Uri earned the following certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT), and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA.) Eventually, an IT Specialist position opened up within National Able Network’s IT department, Uri applied and was hired! When reflecting on his career and how National Able Network was helpful throughout his path thus far, Uri says “I have been able to achieve the American Dream.”
