Seizing Every Opportunity: How Concepcion Cardoza Built a Career Through Adult Education

In 2019, Concepcion Cardoza came to the United States and, just two weeks after arriving in California, enrolled in ESL classes at West Valley Occupational Center. While improving her English, Concepcion also pursued the Medical Office Assistant program. During her Level 4 ESL class, her teacher, Ms. Karen, asked about her work eligibility and connected her with Ms. Rosana Kruszewski. That connection led to her first opportunity to work at the school as a Student Aid.

When adult schools faced closures, Concepcion lost that position. However, when WVOC reopened, she returned as a volunteer. After three months, she inquired about official job opportunities. Although the Student Aid position was no longer available, she was encouraged to take the Instructional Aid assessment. Concepcion passed and began working as an Instructional Aid.

Following another round of school closures, Concepcion was transferred to a charter school, where she worked for a year and a half. During that time, she also supported WVOC as Student Body. Eventually, an opportunity arose to apply for an Office Technician role. With the support and encouragement of her coworkers, Concepcion took the assessment, passed, and began teaching in the Counseling Office.

Surrounded by colleagues and administrators who recognized her potential and consistently encouraged her growth, Concepcion decided to pursue teaching more formally. She earned her preliminary CTE credential and began teaching her first class: Maintenance Supervisor: Computer Essential Practices. For two years, she balanced working full-time while teaching part-time. Later, Concepcion transitioned into an IT Support Technician role. After a year and a half in that position, she was offered the opportunity to become a full-time teacher.

​Today, Concepcion Cardoza teaches Office Technician, Introduction to IT Support, and Computer Essentials. Her journey has been shaped by the guidance, encouragement, and belief of her administrators and coworkers. Adult education opened the door for both personal and professional growth, and Concepcion is profoundly grateful to be part of a community that changes lives—just as it changed hers.