In recent years, the employment landscape in the United States has undergone significant changes, with more and more people finding success in jobs that don’t require a college degree.
One such inspiring story is that of Bridgette Tena, a 51-year-old woman from Santa Fe, New Mexico, who has managed to build a thriving career in a job that many consider unconventional. Bridgette works as a roofer, a profession that is typically male-dominated, and she has successfully broken through barriers to earn an impressive income.
The job of a roofer is challenging and comes with its risks. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, roofing is one of the most dangerous occupations due to the physical demands and the risk of injury from working at heights.
However, it is also one of the fastest-growing fields, offering great opportunities for those willing to face these challenges. For Bridgette, this job has not only been a source of financial stability but also a personal passion. Through hard work and dedication, she now earns over $70,000 a year, combining her roles as a business owner and a real estate agent.
Bridgette’s journey into the roofing industry began only four years ago when she was working as a real estate agent. She was looking for a way to supplement her income, and roofing seemed like the perfect fit.
During the pandemic, she took the opportunity to get her general contractor’s license and founded her own roofing company, B. Barela Construction, which she named in honor of her grandfather, who inspired her to pursue construction.
Since then, Bridgette has turned her business into a successful operation, bringing in over $200,000 annually through both residential and commercial roofing projects.
Despite the difficulties associated with the industry, including the physical strain and the risk of injury, Bridgette finds great satisfaction in her work.
Her typical day starts early at 6 a.m. and can stretch into the evening, especially when dealing with emergency roof repairs. Bridgette works with a diverse team, which includes her mother and daughter, both of whom help with larger projects. Her commitment to her team and her customers has helped her build a reputation for reliability and quality.
Bridgette’s story highlights an important trend: many people are now exploring vocational careers that offer both financial stability and a sense of personal fulfillment. For Bridgette, roofing isn’t just a job; it’s a way to help people by providing them with safe, secure homes.
This sense of purpose is what drives her every day, and it’s something she believes is undervalued in today’s job market.
Before becoming a roofer, Bridgette worked as a real estate agent for over a decade. While she enjoyed the career, she always felt more at home outside, rather than behind a desk.
Her passion for construction led her to pursue a path in roofing, an industry traditionally seen as a man’s domain. To get started, Bridgette invested around $20,000 of her personal savings into tools and training.
She also took part in programs like the GAF Roofing Academy, where she gained valuable knowledge and earned a certification in roofing and coating installation.
Bridgette’s success is a testament to the power of determination and practical skills. She stresses that while roofing may not be the first choice for many young people, it offers an incredible opportunity for those looking for long-term stability and financial success.
“People will always need a roof over their heads,” she says, emphasizing the job’s potential for job security and growth.
Bridgette Tena’s story is a powerful reminder that you don’t need a college degree to achieve success in today’s job market. With the right skills, a clear vision, and a passion for what you do, it is possible to build a successful and fulfilling career, even in industries that have been traditionally overlooked.
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