Building a New Future: Lessons in Resilience and Opportunity at Hilti
A New Beginning: Escaping Threats and Finding Safety
I arrived in the United States in 2018, fleeing a country where my family’s lives were in danger due to my refusal to turn a blind eye to corruption I uncovered as an auditor. With over 17 years of professional experience as a Public Accountant and Business Administrator, I found myself in a place where my credentials were not immediately recognized. Suddenly, I had to start over with nothing but a suitcase containing the few belongings I could pack.
The first moments in the U.S. were surreal, yet for the first time in years I felt an indescribable relief and felt secure by simply breathing. At the airport, I received a notice welcoming me to the country. I was finally free from constant danger and felt immense gratitude toward a country that offered me a new beginning which has stayed with me ever since.
José with fellow team members.
Learning Through Every Challenge: From Delivery to CNC Machines
Starting from scratch meant taking jobs that had little to do with my professional background. I worked as a food delivery driver for Uber Eats, a package handler at Amazon and a warehouse packer. Each experience, though far from my previous career, taught me invaluable lessons in persistence, adaptability and humility.
At one point, I joined a computer equipment company without knowing anything about repairing machines. However, through focus and determination, I learned quickly. Within three months, I was operating a machine, replacing electronic components and CPUs, skills I never imagined mastering.
The Hilti Apprentice Program and Learning Opportunities
During this time, I also engaged with The StoreHouse Community Center, a nonprofit organization that offers essential support and programs like ESL (English as a Second Language). These programs improved my English, taught me about American workplace culture and helped me develop essential skills, from resume writing to preparing for job interviews.
One opportunity that truly shaped my path was the Hilti Apprentice Program, a six-month program that provides access and opportunities to learn the skills needed to succeed in the current job market. This program is designed for individuals eager to learn specific skills and improve their organizational and operational acumen. Through six months of immersive learning, I gained hands-on experience in warehouse operations, safety policies, equipment handling, inventory management and other core processes. This program became my first meaningful connection with Hilti, offering a holistic understanding of how a company’s processes intersect and contribute to its success.
José and Dulari Mehta, Manager, Social Impact - Workforce & Education.
From Apprentice to Corporate Card Administrator
At the end of the apprenticeship, I was offered the opportunity to join Hilti, in a role that leveraged my auditing and accounting experience. Today, I am proud to serve as the Corporate Card Administrator within the Purchase-to-Pay team, managing essential financial processes that help the company operate efficiently.
Reflecting on my journey, what stands out most is the power of determination, resilience and a clear vision. Moving to a new country, learning a new language, adapting to unfamiliar work environments, and gradually rebuilding my professional life has been challenging, but each step reaffirmed that with persistence and a willingness to learn, it is possible to overcome even the most daunting obstacles.
Looking Back at my First Year at Hilti with Gratitude
As I approach my first anniversary at Hilti, I am grateful for the opportunity to grow, learn and contribute in ways that make a difference. Hilti’s culture has been central to my growth and development. From day one, the company welcomed me, provided structured learning opportunities and allowed me to contribute meaningfully. I have experienced firsthand how Hilti’s core values: courage, integrity, teamwork and commitment are more than words; they are a lived experience.
Sharing my story is not only about my personal journey; it is a testament to what can happen when a company embraces diversity and invests in people. I hope it inspires people who are navigating uncertainty or seeking to start over in a new place. Success is rarely linear, and the path to growth often requires stepping into the unknown, embracing challenges and maintaining faith in your abilities.
The journey continues, and I look forward to new challenges, new skills and further deepening my connection with a company that has given me not only a career but a community and a sense of belonging.
Jose and team members outside a restaurant.
Explore Opportunities at Hilti
At Hilti, we are committed to creating opportunities for our team members to connect with one another and develop meaningful and long-lasting careers with impact. Learn more and explore our opportunities in North America and worldwide here: Jobs | Hilti Careers.
