Valerie Amaya knew early on that she didn’t want an ordinary high school experience. She wanted something that would challenge her and allow her to learn by doing. That’s what led her to Odessa College Technical Early College High School (OCTECHS).
“I learn faster when I’m hands-on,” she said. “I knew OCTECHS would challenge me in that way.”
She didn’t just choose a different path, she chose a bold one. Valerie enrolled in welding, a field traditionally dominated by men. Inspired by her older brother, who was already taking welding classes at Odessa College, she decided to give it a shot.
“He told me I would enjoy it and be good at it,” she said. “And he was right.”
While she had also considered a future in nursing, Valerie saw welding as an opportunity she couldn’t pass up, one that could open doors now, while keeping her long-term goals within reach.
In the welding lab, Valerie found more than just technical skills. She found confidence, connection, and a sense of belonging. The experience helped her step outside her comfort zone, build friendships, and become more outgoing.
But her journey wasn’t without challenges.
During her junior year, Valerie faced significant changes at home that required her to take on greater responsibility.
“Life happened,” she said. “I had to step up and help take care of my siblings.”
Balancing school, family, and personal growth wasn’t easy, but it became a turning point.
“I learned how strong I was,” she said. “My brother encouraged me, and I stayed in school and took care of my siblings. The way I looked at the world changed.”
That shift in perspective carried over into the classroom. Valerie became more focused, more determined, and more appreciative of the support around her.
“The teachers really want you to succeed,” she said. “They treat you like an adult, and that made me take everything more seriously.”
As her skills developed, so did her vision for the future.
“I could see how my welding skills could benefit me after I graduate,” she said.
Valerie approaches life with a mindset rooted in courage and optimism.
“I always want to just go for it,” she said. “I believe something good will come from it.”
That mindset is already shaping her next chapter. After graduation, Valerie will move to El Paso to attend the University of Texas at El Paso, where she has been accepted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. While pursuing her degree, she plans to continue welding part-time to help support herself financially, combining the skills she’s gained with the future she’s building.
Valerie’s long-term goal is to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), a path that requires years of dedication and perseverance.
“It may take 10 years, but I’m willing,” she said. “It’s worth it for me to have a really good career and to help people.”
From stepping into a welding lab to stepping up for her family, Valerie Amaya’s journey is defined by resilience, determination, and a willingness to take on whatever comes next - head-on.