Felipe was referred to the One Workforce Program through WSU in December 2021 for funding assistance with his Bachelors of Science (BS) in Mechanical Engineering. Felipe was underemployed, working part-time at WSU/NIAR for $12.00 an hour, to gain experience within the industry. 

Felipe completed all requirements and assessments in order to be approved for the full One Workforce Grant scholarship, to begin with funding assistance for Spring Semester 2022.
While in the program, Felipe was able to receive assistance for tuition, fees, and books for his required courses. In addition, he made continual wage increases at his part-time employment due to his work ethic and gained experience being successful in completing necessary courses. Felipe was also able to secure additional scholarships to assist with any remaining costs.
Felipe successfully completed his BS in Mechanical Engineering on 05/09/2024. 

Felipe received a promotion at WSU/NIAR to a full-time employee, moving from a Student Assistant to an Automation Engineer II. He is now earning $36.06 per hour and is eligible for full benefits through this employment. Felipe indicated that his desire was always to stay with WSU/NIAR if possible, as the work is enjoyable, and it gives him the opportunity to work within multiple industries