Building Strong Careers and Bright Smiles: A Tale of Two Dental Assistants
Diana Solis and Joselyn Hernandez are both testaments to the power of San Antonio’s transformational education, training and job placement program, Ready to Work (RTW). Each studied diligently at the University of the Incarnate Word’s Dental Assistance program and landed jobs with the same employer.
Solis initially stepped into the program while coincidentally working in a dentist office. Her enthusiasm for the patients and for the field became very strong. “I want patients to feel comfortable when coming into the office,” she said. “I enjoy witnessing them have their smile back and feeling confident about themselves.”
For Hernandez, she served as the primary caregiver for her aging mother, taking on the financial obligations of the household while working as a hostess at a restaurant. She found out about RTW and wanted exactly what the program seeks to provide for people – better quality, higher-paying jobs. Her decision marked the beginning of a new way of life for Hernandez, driven by her dream of a better future for herself and her family.
Ready to Work, run by the City of San Antonio’s Workforce Development Office, is a dedicated program that champions career development and empowers people like Solis and Hernandez to shape their own futures. The program provides a support system through every phase of the journey. RTW understands that people cannot take time off from their jobs or lives but helps them carefully navigate education and training with job placement assistance when their training is complete.
San Antonio City Councilmembers Teri Castillo, District 5, and Melissa Cabello Havrda, District 6, represent these Ready to Work graduates.
“I’m delighted to hear about my District 5 resident, Joselyn Hernandez, and her experience with the Ready to Work program,” Castillo said. “The fact that she was able to learn an in-demand skill, land a stable job and gain a friend along the way speaks volumes to the support system and camaraderie that Ready to Work fosters.”
“My constituent changed the trajectory of her life through Ready to Work,” Cabello Havrda said. “Plus, a local employer gained two new dedicated employees because of the program. Her story is a testament to the wonderful resources Ready to Work provides to San Antonio residents.”
The commitment that Solis and Hernandez demonstrated led to them securing their positions within one month of completing their programs. Hernandez said the program taught her to stay focused.
“Ready to Work gave me the opportunity to grow as a person and achieve my goals,” she said.
After their training, the graduates landed at San Antonio Downtown Dentistry as dental assistants. Their stories are an inspiring example of the transformative power of education, determination and community support. As they continue to brighten smiles in their new roles, Hernandez and Solis are proof that with a readiness to learn, willingness to work, and a supportive network of resources, anyone can achieve remarkable success.
Take the steps and see this kind of success for yourself by calling 3-1-1 or visiting www.ReadytoWorkSA.com.
