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Maurice, 37, is a Jacksonville, Florida native. He first graduated from the seven-month Refrigeration Technologies (RT) program before completing the necessary electrical classes to graduate the Electro-Mechanical Technologies (EMT) program at Tulsa Welding School in Jacksonville in October 2025.
Thanks for your time, Maurice. What did you do before enrolling at TWS?
I was originally in logistics — driving, doing delivery jobs. But I got burnt out on that; traffic, accidents, and delays made days so unpredictable. I wanted a more consistent, stable schedule as I have a family. So, for the five years before TWS, I worked at OptumRx, they provide pharmacy services for United Healthcare members. I started as a Customer Service Advocate in the home-delivery pharmacy, then I was promoted to Claims Representative. But when I heard layoffs were coming, I started looking for a new career path.
What made you think of going to Tulsa Welding School?
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I saw a commercial! I called and scheduled a tour at the Jacksonville campus. I actually wanted to follow in my father’s footsteps. He’s been a professional welder for 40 years with the Longshoremen’s Association. I first enrolled in the Welding program. But a week before my welding classes started, my parents’ AC unit broke. Millie Gabriel – my Admissions Representative – told me about the Refrigeration Technology program, and I switched. I wanted to learn HVAC – how it works, how to fix it – and that’s how I got into this field. It seemed like a solid choice in Florida.
So, you weren’t too attached to the idea of welding once HVAC came along?
Not at all. I’d seen how welding had supported my family growing up. My father always said, “If you learn a trade, no one can take it from you.” I guess I just defaulted to welder, but HVAC appealed to me more.
What made you take the extra classes to complete the EMT program too?
When I completed the RT program, I wasn’t satisfied; I’d developed a real love for electricity and how it works, starting in my very first class which was ‘Fundamentals of Electricity’. I wanted to continue learning. During the final week of my RT program, I reached out to Millie in Admissions and asked to enroll in the EMT program. She said, “Sure, Maurice, no problem.” I told her I wanted to learn more about electricity, motors, wiring — all of it. That’s how I got enrolled in the Electro-Mechanical Technologies program.
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The EMT program takes nine months; it’s HVAC and electrical. RT is seven months. So, the RT program is the HVAC part of EMT program; I added the extra electrical classes and that took me an extra eight weeks.
Why didn’t you enroll in EMT from the start?
Because I’d gone in at first just thinking about welding; I discovered my interest in electrical after I switched to RT. I also learned about the Electrical Applications (EA) program, which I plan to enroll in next year!
Outstanding! What about welding – will you come back for that in 2027?
My father insists he can teach me himself — he says he’s got all the equipment and knows the techniques.
Fair enough! What did you enjoy most about your experience at Tulsa Welding School?
The hands-on training. Working with instructors with real industry experience; they shared tips that went beyond the books. That sold me on the program. Plus, my classmates – being around like-minded, goal-driven people — made it even better. It was a great mix of ages and people. Some students were older than me – Navy veterans and others with field experience who just weren’t certified yet. I learned a lot from them too.
Did it come easily to you, or were there times you thought, “What have I gotten myself into?”
It was definitely challenging. I’d been out of school for more than a decade and learning the technical side was tough. But with practice and the support of my instructors and classmates, it became easier and fun.
What kept you going on the frustrating days?
Partly stubbornness – I’m not a quitter. But mostly it was my wife and kids. My oldest is 22, he’s serving in the Navy; my second son is 16 and about to graduate; my dedication inspired him to pursue a trade instead of college. Then my wife and I have 14-year-old twins, a boy and a girl. They were all so proud of me – texting me while I was in school, cheering me on. We were all in school at the same time; it motivated us as a family. I wanted to show them that hard work and persistence can change your life. It doesn’t matter your age – if you put your mind to it, you can accomplish anything. And my faith gave me the strength to keep going.
That’s awesome. You just finished class last week. Where and when do you start work?
I’ve been hired as a Crane Maintenance Technician at JaxPort, the Jacksonville Port Authority. The hiring manager told me that my dedication and the steps I took at Tulsa Welding School were what landed me the job. They were very excited to bring me on. I start in a couple of weeks, before Thanksgiving.
Congratulations. How did that opportunity come about?
All credit goes to Ms. Maureen Foster in Career Services at TWS. Before I even enrolled in the EMT program, she told me that JaxPort had a job listing and suggested I apply. I believe in positivity and staying proactive, so I applied, then started my EMT classes, and by the time I finished, JaxPort called me for an interview.
Back in January, could you imagine you’d be working for a company like JaxPort before Thanksgiving?
No sir, not at all. But Ms. Millie told me TWS had a high job placement rate, and she was right. Before I even graduated, I had a position lined up thanks to Ms. Maureen. Tulsa Welding School was the best decision I ever made. That school has great staff in all the right places; they made sure I had everything I needed to succeed.
Are you excited about the financial possibilities of this career?
Absolutely. JaxPort offers strong growth potential and excellent benefits. They’re also going to train me in hydraulics and diesel mechanics. Plus, they asked if I’d be willing to service their AC units, and since I’m EPA Universal certified, I can. They even gave me a higher starting pay because of that skill set.
Do you see yourself staying there long-term or do you have more plans down the road?
Both. My goal is to grow with JaxPort and move into management, helping keep the port running efficiently. But I also want to start my own business with a few classmates – five of us who all finished together in October. We plan to gain experience for a year or two then open an HVAC and electrical company together.
So, could you see yourself staying at JaxPort for the long haul – maybe even retiring there?
Absolutely. I’d love to retire there. But if opportunities come up, I’d be happy to travel! My kids are older now, and my wife and I have a strong support system, so I can be flexible.
What do you enjoy most about your new trade?
The hands-on aspect and being able to use what I’ve learned right away. I’ve already helped family members fix their AC units and electrical issues — seeing that knowledge in action is rewarding.
Did you make lasting connections, friendships, at Tulsa Welding School?
Definitely. I built strong relationships with classmates and instructors. We’ll stay in touch; they’re now part of my professional network. It’s true what they say – sometimes it’s not what you know, but who you know. About five of us started together in February and finished together in October, having all decided to complete the EMT program. We still talk often and hold each other accountable.
Last question — what advice do you have for new students starting at Tulsa Welding School?
Stay focused. Show up every day, on time. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The more effort you put in, the more results you’ll get. Every challenge is one step closer to mastering your trade. My final instructor, Mr. Wentz, told us it’s up to us to get the most out of the school we’re paying for. Even on days I didn’t need makeup hours, I came in to practice wiring and troubleshooting. That extra time helped me build confidence — and a great relationship with my multimeter!
If you’re a TWS graduate and would like to share your success and be an inspiration to others, please email [email protected] to be considered for a Graduate Connection interview. Please include details such as your graduation date (month/year), program, and campus name (Tulsa/Jacksonville/Houston/Dallas).
