大象视频

大象视频 (RCC) student Sophia Valenzuela has been awarded a coveted national scholarship to attend the Women in Mechanical Industry (WiMi) conference, distinguishing herself as one of only ten recipients selected from over 500 applicants. A rising star in the HVAC program, Valenzuela鈥檚 journey is a powerful story of pivoting purpose, personal grit, and a growing mission to inspire the next generation of tradespeople鈥攅specially women.

Originally a nursing major, Sophia was encouraged to consider a skilled trade by a friend who saw growing job demand in HVAC and electrical work. 鈥淚 was really fascinated by how the mechanics work in this trade,鈥� she shared. 鈥淵ou get to learn a bit of everything鈥攅lectricity, plumbing, controls. We鈥檙e truly jacks of all trades.鈥�

Despite initial challenges, including entering the field with little tool experience and being the only woman in her class, Sophia quickly found her stride. She credits her success to a supportive learning environment at RCC and her determination to grow. 鈥淓veryone in HVAC has been incredibly kind and patient. I鈥檝e learned that no matter your gender, if you鈥檙e committed, you can succeed.鈥�

Sophia鈥檚 decision to apply for the WiMi scholarship was almost serendipitous. 鈥淲hen my professor first asked if I wanted to go to WiMi, I thought it was a restaurant,鈥� she laughed. Once she understood it was a national women鈥檚 HVAC conference, she jumped at the chance鈥攁nd her instincts paid off. Learning she was one of only ten winners was a moment of shock and pride. 鈥淚t showed me that taking a chance really can pay off.鈥�

The scholarship will allow her to attend the WiMi conference and connect with seasoned professionals in the HVAC field. 鈥淚t鈥檚 more than just financial support,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about mentorship, advice, and seeing firsthand that women have a strong place in this industry.鈥�

Currently pursuing her HVAC certification at RCC, Sophia has her eyes set on becoming a commercial HVAC service technician, with the long-term goal of launching her own business. She also hopes to be a spokesperson for the trades鈥攙isiting schools, speaking to students, and showing other young women that they, too, can build fulfilling, impactful careers in technical fields.

鈥淚n five years, I see myself in a management role or even starting my own company. But more than that, I want to be someone who opens doors for others,鈥� she said. 鈥淭here鈥檚 a place for everyone in the trades鈥攜ou just have to be willing to take that first step.鈥�

Sophia鈥檚 story is a testament to the power of perseverance, mentorship, and saying yes to opportunity. Her advice? 鈥淒on鈥檛 overthink it. If something excites you, go for it鈥攅ven if it scares you a little. That鈥檚 usually where the growth happens.鈥�