Growing up around fire trucks throughout her life, Candance had an innate interest for the field and always knew she wanted to eventually work in the trades. From a young age, she felt inspired to one day work on trucks mechanics, specifically wanting to keep their maintenance in top shape and condition.
Formerly working as a massage therapist, the COVID-19 global pandemic presented an opportunity for Candace, and many others like her, to take a leap of faith into a career in the trades. The pandemic and its associated work from home orders hindered Candace from seeing her clients and earning a living. Remembering that dream and passion she shared for truck mechanics as a child, Candace knew there was no better time to make a career change.
Rosedale Tech’s conveniently located Kennedy Township campus and highly rated hands-on training curriculum made Candace’s decision easy when choosing a trades school. Following her four-year service term in the US Navy, Candance enrolled in the technical college’s Diesel Technologies program. She completed her time as a trades student this past fall, officially graduating in November.
Candance took advantage of the resources and opportunities Rosedale Tech offers students, including the Women in the Trades events. At a particular guest speaker lunch, Candance heard Erzhi Herman from Hill International speak to the group of aspiring trades professionals. After introducing herself to Erzhi and sharing her professional interests and goals, Candace scored an interview with the company. Rosedale Tech provided the networking opportunity for Candance to find and succeed in a trades career, which eventually led her to her current role working at Hill International – Aliquippa.
Thanks to the strong foundation created from her Rosedale Tech education and her determination to succeed, Candace has performed exceptionally well in her role as a Service Advisor. Last December, she was awarded Partner of the Month by her colleagues at Hill International.
A mom of seven-year-old twins and a Lieutenant & Training Officer at her local fire department, Candace keeps herself busy as she fulfills her dreams of being a Woman in the Trades.
Inspired by Candace’s story of becoming a Woman in the Trades? Here’s her advice: “DO IT! Doesn’t matter if you’re tall, short, in your teens, or over 40,” says Rosedale Tech alumna Candace Carlton. “if you’ve thought about doing it, go for it!”