When Wilder Gonzalez moved from Nicaragua to the U.S. three years ago, he brought with him a degree in Business Administration and experience as a Credit Verifier. But like many newcomers, he found that adjusting to life in a new country meant starting over — and learning a new language.
Today, Wilder works in maintenance at George’s Food, where all of his co-workers speak English. It was a big shift from his previous role in sanitation, where Spanish was commonly spoken. Recognizing the need to communicate effectively at work and in the community, Wilder took action.
He heard about Skyline Literacy through his church and enrolled in our Digital Literacy class last year. After testing out of the first level of English, he quickly moved on to Level 2 English, where he continues to study today.
“Classes were very helpful,” Wilder says. “Before, I always needed my sister to help me translate at the bank or other places. Now, I can go with my family and my wife, and I can talk and understand what people are saying.”
From understanding instructions at work to handling personal errands like banking, Wilder’s improved English skills have given him the confidence and independence he was hoping for. He can now follow both technical work terms and have personal conversations in English — a huge step in building a life here.
One of his greatest joys? Practicing English with his daughter, who learned the language in school.
“She speaks very well — she says she is advanced,” Wilder shares with pride. “Now I can understand her and practice with her. I am very thankful for that.”
Wilder's journey with Skyline Literacy is far from over. He plans to continue taking classes and, in the future, hopes to enroll in university-level English courses. Long-term, he wants to take citizenship classes and become a U.S. citizen.
“Since I live in the U.S., I believe it’s important to learn the language,” he says. “The teachers are very friendly and the materials are very helpful. I think Skyline has a good idea and gives good support for people who want to learn English.”
As a father, Wilder is also grateful for the support Skyline provides to families. His daughter is involved with the Gus Bus reading program, and this semester Skyline is offering free English classes for parents of Gus Bus students.
“Skyline is always asking what students need and is very caring, even financially,” he adds.
Wilder’s story is a beautiful reminder of what’s possible when people are given the tools and support they need to grow. We’re proud to be part of his journey — and excited to see what’s next.