How Juan Figueroa’s Journey Came Full Circle at West Valley Occupational Center

​Juan Figueroa’s journey into education and HVAC began in 1992, when he first took a class in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration. While the class gave him a foundation, it wasn’t enough to carve out a clear career path. For years,
he struggled to gain traction in the field—until 2003, when he discovered West Valley Occupational Center.

He enrolled in the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program, which turned out to be exactly what he needed to launch his career as an HVAC technician. By January 2005, he had completed the two-year program and proudly
earned his certificate. Around the same time, he was offered the opportunity to serve as a teaching assistant—a role he hadn’t planned for but was honored to accept.

At first, Mr. Figueroa did not see himself advancing in education. He was working full time as an air conditioning technician, and teaching wasn’t part of his plan. But one day, he mentioned the idea of becoming a teacher to one of the instructors he assisted. That instructor immediately turned to a colleague and said, “Mr. Figueroa wants to become a teacher.” The response was simple and encouraging: “We will help him.”

The paid TA position lasted until 2008, when the economic downturn forced schools to make cuts, and his role was eliminated. Despite this setback, Mr. Figueroa’s determination never wavered. The instructors, still committed to
supporting him, welcomed him back as a volunteer. For five more years he gave his time freely, continuing to build his skills and strengthen his resolve.

In 2013, Mr. Figueroa applied for his teaching credentials, and by 2014, he had returned to West Valley Occupational Center—this time as a teacher. He has been teaching here ever since, dedicating himself to helping students the way his teachers once helped him.

Mr. Figueroa is proud of his accomplishments, but he credits much of his success to the people who stood beside him. His wife, Sabina, provided unwavering support every step of the way, while his teachers, Frank Mirth and Rick
Killman, inspired him and encouraged him to pursue this career path. To them, and to the entire WVOC community, he offers his deepest gratitude: “Thank you for changing my life.”