Some Hispanic men are redefining the concept of college education in order to improve their job prospects and provide a better future for their families. Many Hispanic men work in physically demanding and dangerous jobs, leading them to experience early injuries and wear and tear on their bodies. This has prompted some to seek alternative career paths and further education to secure better opportunities in the future.
One such example is Jun Garza, a 43-year-old construction business owner from San Antonio who is pursuing his GED and a construction manager certification through community college after realizing the limitations of his physical labor-intensive work. Other Hispanic men are also using their blue-collar skills to start their own businesses, often out of necessity due to the lack of job opportunities.
However, challenges remain for Latino entrepreneurs, as many struggle to secure financing and grow their businesses to scale. While there is a higher percentage of Latino male-owned businesses generating over $1 million in revenue compared to Latina-owned businesses, they still lag behind white male-owned businesses in terms of financial success.
Healthcare and financial support are key concerns for Hispanic small business owners like Garza, who lack health insurance and hope for assistance to reduce costs through tax deductions. The impact of high costs on Latino families and frustrations with the current economic system are driving factors in their voting decisions and perceptions of the American dream.
Overall, there is a need for greater investment in and support for Hispanic men in the workforce to ensure their success and well-being. By providing resources and infrastructure for their professional growth, they can contribute to a more equitable and prosperous future for themselves and their families.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
