Gardyartu's Story

Gardyartu came to Hired when she was between jobs during the pandemic. At the time, so many things were uncertain.

Gardyartu already had a degree in Engineering CAD Technology and was in the process of finishing her college degree in applied engineering. Yet she knew finishing her college degree would give her more career options. With the encouragement and guidance of her employment counselor, Gardyartu made a plan to complete college and return to work after graduation. Hired helped Gardyartu find funding for the books and coursework to complete her final semester.

In the spring, Gardyartu visited campus for the first time for her graduation. To her surprise and delight, she graduated with honors. Soon after, she landed a job as an operations engineer, a position she is very much enjoying.  “I like it because for a long time I’ve wanted to go into leadership,” she said. “I want to do my best to inspire other people and be a leader.”

In addition to her new job, Gardyartu is raising two girls. For hobbies, she volunteers, spends time in prayer and listens to music. “I live humbly, as well,” she said. “I always want to serve the community. I’m not better than anybody and nobody is better than me.”

“Gardyartu is very passionate about being a role model to other Black women, especially in STEM careers,” said her employment counselor. “She’s eager to share her wisdom with younger Black women and also tell her story to broader audiences.” 

Gardyartu has plans for her professional future. “I want to get my master’s in renewable energy engineering. I want to remain in leadership because I feel like I have a good connection with people and want to inspire young people.”

Gardyartu was very pleased with her experienced at Hired. “Life is hard,” she said. “But sometimes you get things bigger than what you can imagine.”