When people talk about Eric, they describe him as a go-getter who brings energy, humor, and a deep sense of connection wherever he goes. A natural people person. But behind his lively spirit is a man who’s overcome more than most. Raised in the projects of Buffalo, New York, Eric grew up watching his mother struggle and endured a turbulent home life with an abusive stepfather. Sports became his outlet — football, basketball, baseball — and a glimpse of what discipline and teamwork could offer.
Still, like many growing up with few resources and limited support, Eric found himself navigating choices that pulled him off course. Over time, the weight of his environment and the pressure to provide took a toll. Eventually, those challenges led to a period of incarceration — one that would change how he saw himself and his future.
Before that time, Eric had been receiving disability and was unable to work — a situation that left him feeling stuck and frustrated. “It was stressful and depressing not being able to provide for my family,” he says. “I always wanted to work in construction, but I just didn’t have the chance.”
His probation officer referred him to the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO), and that introduction became a turning point. Eric was soon enrolled in CEO’s transitional employment program and then took a leap forward by joining a workforce training partnership with PUSH Buffalo, where he explored sustainable architecture and solar installation.
During the program, he gained hands-on experience in solar panel installation, weatherization, HVAC systems, floor tiling, and carpentry — skills that not only made him job-ready but sparked a new sense of purpose. CEO supported him financially during this time, including two months of transportation assistance until he was able to purchase his own vehicle. “That kind of support made all the difference,” he says.
After completing the pre-apprenticeship program, Eric was offered a union job with Local 276 — a milestone that brought him a stable income, career benefits, and a powerful sense of belonging. “Now I work as a carpenter, helping install solar panels. I fill the holes so they can be secured properly,” he explains with pride. “What I really enjoy is the people I work with — and the pay’s not bad either,” he adds.
For Eric, being part of a union means more than just a job. “It’s like a brotherhood. Everyone works together, and we get the job done,” he says. “There’s paid vacation, health benefits, a pension, and a 401(k) — things that help me support my wife and kids.”
Now, with his life on a steady path, Eric is filled with purpose and pride. “This changed my life a lot. I want to keep working in the union and retire from it. I love what I’m doing, and the benefits make a real difference,” he says.
To others returning home from incarceration, Eric has a message: “Don’t give up. Keep your mind open and stay focused. Join as many trades as you can — it opens doors. Nothing is easy, but your work ethic will pay off.”
From the streets of Buffalo to a high-earning union career, Eric is living proof of what’s possible when opportunity meets resolve. Through CEO’s support and the solidarity of union labor, he’s not just rebuilding a life — he’s laying a foundation for a future he once thought was out of reach.
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