Peter’s Commencement Moment: March–April HVAC Workshop Completion

💡 Empowered by the Journey

I appreciate that.

There’s no doubt that the path we help people get on can be truly empowering.

What a cute little baby. That’s not fair.

Yeah — it can be very, very, extremely empowering. And it’s like that for all of us.

I want to make sure everybody knows just how hard people work to get this job done. It takes real effort.

Now… the next person.

Well — let’s go through the video.
And then if y’all want to take a break…

No — just kidding. I know.

💬 Personal Growth & Reflections

There was a truth shared earlier — when we came here, we all got together, united, and became good friends and good contacts. I was able to be part of a group of people here who, in one way or another, helped shape me as an individual. You might be thinking, “How is that possible? You’re an older guy.” But you never stop learning.

The process of learning is a continuous motion that never stops. I come from a background with deeply rooted Japanese culture. In that culture, we use the term Kaizen — it means continuous improvement and learning.

Now, there’s a saying: “Don’t ask me what time it is because I’ll tell you how the watch is made.” So I’ll try to go through this the best I can. Over the past week, as I reflected, I wrote down some notes and isolated every single person who made this happen for me. But before anything else, I want to say two words: Thank you — to all of you. Everyone here. Please clap for yourselves.

🤝 Gratitude & Support

First, I want to thank our Lord. Without His strength and guidance, I wouldn’t have had the patience to endure the transition I’ve gone through. This wasn’t easy. Let me be honest — this is not a simple task. If anyone out there thinks this was a cookie-cutter process, have them call me. I’ll explain it to them.

A special friend once told me, “In the road of life, you’re going to run into obstacles. And sometimes, you’ll hit roadblocks.” Those words stayed with me. One of the best things I got from this program was the first two hours each day: Mr. Huffman’s life skills class. It completed a part of my life I hadn’t realized was missing. When he taught us about life crossroads, I learned that hitting a roadblock doesn’t mean life stops. There’s always a way forward. So whatever roadblock you face moving forward — like Mr. G said — don’t stop. “72 calls.” That was a very motivating message. Hats off to you, sir.

I also want to thank my family for holding things back to help me stay focused. Mr. Danny, you know what I mean. I had no idea my mother was in the emergency room for weeks while I was in this program. My wife kept that from me to help me stay focused. Thank you to all my family members for protecting my peace so I could succeed.

To my wife — you are my rock and my foundation. Every day, “Hey, it’s 5:30, time to go to school!” Tropical Air. “Danny’s waiting for you.” I think I’m going to get a tattoo that says “Danny” — because that’s all I talk about.

And on the other side, “Pat.” Mama, thank you for helping me make this transition.

To the incredible folks at CareerSource Central Florida — thank you for helping me find direction and focus through all the chaos behind me. You led me to this haven of knowledge and friendship, and a foundation for a second chance in my career.

🛠️ Program Impact & Lessons

Miss Prada, thank you. My career counselor is here, and I truly appreciate everything you’ve done for me.

To my instructors — Mr. Andrew, thank you for your energy, humor, and your way of making learning stick. You were the nail that held us together. Without your guidance, none of this would have been possible.

Mr. Robert — I still have nightmares about parallel and series wiring! Thank you for being understanding, for seeing each of us as individuals, and for sharing your knowledge in a way that connected. You didn’t treat us all the same — you taught us in the ways we needed. That takes a true educator and motivator. Thank you for being there.

Mr. Chris — I know you’re not here, but your sabotages were legendary. The cardboard under the evaporator? Every one of those had a purpose. You challenged us, and I appreciated every bit of it.

Mr. Danny — you brought this all together. You connected the dots for so many of us — not just in HVAC, but in life. You always had an open door. If anyone needed to talk, you’d stop what you were doing and listen. Thank you for being a mentor and a friend. That means the world to me — and to all of us.

And last but not least — Brazil. Thank you for keeping this operation running behind the scenes. From your HR work to every moving part of this program — I see your dedication. I’ve worked in environments like this before. I know how much you give, even when others don’t see it. Thank you, Miss Lane.

🙏 Final Thoughts & Message to Class

As I wrap up — we’ve talked a lot about the Four C’s. But today, I want to add one more thought. We made it. We made it through this program. And now we’re going to make it out there. Nothing will hold us back. We’ve been given not just tools — but knowledge. Knowledge that will help us make an impact in our communities, our jobs, and our families. God bless you all. And I wish every one of you the absolute best in your future. Thank you so much.