COLUMBUS, OHIO – When Abel Ramos accepted a position with HES Facilities Management, he didn’t know that decision would eventually lead him through the gates of Capital University as a student – with a scholarship!
Initially chosen for the team at longtime client Colonial Williamsburg, Abel was excited to start a career in a company and industry that gave him room to grow. With his positive attitude and hard work, it didn’t take long for him to gain the trust of HES Regional Manager Michael Saless. So, when Michael was tasked with building a new team for Capital University in Columbus, Ohio, he offered Abel a role there. Abel jumped at the chance.
Tackling new challenges as a student-athlete
Fast-forward a year, and Abel is more than happy with his choice to stay with HES. Today, he attends Capital University as a business management major, is a member of the Capital football team, and continues working three evenings a week with HES on the Capital campus. He’s also a recipient of Capital University’s Presidential Scholarship.
“Abel showed interest in going to school and joining the football team,” says Michael, who encouraged him to apply. “Through the process, Paul Matthews, Capital University’s Director of Facilities, and Rima Leonaviciute, Associate Director of Facilities, provided recommendations attesting to Abel’s hard work on campus.” In addition, Michael says Abel showed academic aptitude and motivation, including in his admissions essay.
Why HES and Capital University?
What was it about Capital University and HES that appealed to Abel? He credits Capital’s strong business program and the partnership between Capital and HES. When asked about that partnership, he is enthusiastic about the support both organizations have offered him. “I am the first generation in my family to attend a four-year school,” he says, adding that he knows a degree from Capital will help him excel faster in his career.
As for HES, Abel credits teamwork and mentorship with helping him achieve clarity about his future: “This company helped me with my struggle of finding what to do. They’ve supported me and treated me like their own and have always appreciated my hard work.”
HES mentorship helps build confidence and skills
The road to success hasn’t always been easy, however. “It was hard because my parents weren’t there for my journey,” says Abel, “but I have a mentor. He made me realize who I am and what I am capable of.” This mentor is Michael, who Abel says has supported him like family. “I could never thank him enough,” says Abel. “He and this company changed my life.”
Abel’s advice for other working students
Abel expects to graduate in Spring 2025 and is excited about his career possibilities. He is especially enthusiastic about growing with HES, and is aiming for a leadership role in the future.
His advice for other young people planning to work while attending college is straightforward: Stick with it; it’s worth the effort.
“This is not easy. You definitely need to try,” says Abel. “Get stuff done on time or early. Along with school, if you add work, be prepared to stay up late most nights and study on your days off…but don’t get down. It all works out in the end. Just keep grinding and going, and you will come out better than ever.”
Work with the right facilities management team
Want to know more about how HES helps build careers? Contact us at [email protected].
Disclaimer
The illustrations, instructions, and principles contained in this website are general in scope and for marketing purposes. We assume no responsibility for: managing or controlling customer activities, implementing any recommended measures, or identifying all potential hazards.