Opportunities don’t mean much if they’re wasted. Conversely, they can change your life when you savor them. Eduardo Rangel is making the most of the opportunities he’s been presented with. At only 18, he sees a future in construction management ahead of him.

“Ever since I was a kid, my dad has been involved in construction,” Rangel said. “I like the idea of building something from nothing, into a beautiful structure that helps a community.”

Through a leadership program called New Pathways for Youth, Rangel was introduced to an internship with DPR Construction. The time he spent took him beyond the day-to-day trades of framers or electricians. Instead, Rangel studied drawings and blueprints, talked to site managers and planners, and saw construction from the planning side.

“I like how everything comes together,” Rangel said. “It’s more behind-the-scenes.”

The work transcended the studies he already had at Phoenix Union Wilson College Prep.

One day hoping to use these newly learned skills, to help his community, Eduardo has proved many times over that you are capable of anything you put your mind to.

“I shadowed a construction estimator, and she taught me about the math skills, the communication skills you need,” Rangel said. “It’s about all the materials that go into a budget, all the meetings with the departments. I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity.”

Rangel encourages other students to take advantage of their opportunities.

“You have to be bold with your opportunities,” he said. “I was going through a tough time during my freshman year, and I realized that I couldn’t be in that position forever. I learned about New Pathways, and I signed up. It gave me skills for being a leader, for going outside my comfort zone. It’s given me amazing opportunities.”