When Felipe Irizarry celebrated his 31st birthday the week of his graduation, it marked a turning point in his life. A father who had been sober for two years, Felipe decided to pursue a future in the building trades to create more stability for his family.
Like many apprenticeship opportunities in Wisconsin, entry into the trades requires a high school diploma. Without one, Felipe’s goals were out of reach. From September to November 2025, he visited WRTP | BIG STEP’s Milwaukee office for GED testing and tutoring through Literacy Services of Wisconsin. With dedication and support, he completed the requirements needed to move forward.
Felipe’s experience reflects the impact adult education can have on economic opportunity. In Milwaukee County, individuals without a high school diploma earn a median annual income of $24,074. For those with a diploma, that number increases to $32,758. Earning a GED, therefore, can open new doors to training and employment opportunities and eventually long-term stability.
At graduation, Felipe shared what the achievement meant to him: “For me, this journey was about second chances. The opportunity to prove to myself and to my family that I am somebody. That the decisions I’ve made in my past do not determine the man standing in front of you today. It proves that change is possible. I’ve lost a lot in life. But today, I stand here a winner.”
His words were met with pride and connection from fellow graduates who shared similar challenges and hopes for the future. Felipe closed by encouraging his peers to keep striving for success, whether through continued education or new job opportunities.
Felipe’s story is one of 303 adults who earned their GED last year through Literacy Services of Wisconsin. Thousands more in our community are still working toward that goal.
For those inspired by Felipe’s journey, opportunities are available to earn a High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) while gaining industry-recognized credentials at the same time. Contact us to learn more about programs that combine education and workforce training to help you take the next step toward a stable career.