By: DaChar Lane
In 2023, Nicholas Smith made a decision that changed the course of his life.
After leaving the Army in 2016, he struggled to find his footing. The structure he was used to was gone. The sense of mission was gone. And over time, his thoughts became heavier.
After battling PTSD, depression, and the loss of a child, Nicholas found hope at a PTSD foundation for veterans. It was there that he would eventually find purpose again through Harris County’s Apprenticeship Advantage program.
In February of 2023, Harris County launched Apprenticeship Advantage, a program designed to connect residents to skilled-trade opportunities. The program currently partners with the Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation, which operates 11 union apprenticeships, and NPower, a nonprofit that provides tech training for veterans and young adults. To date, Apprenticeship Advantage has served over 1,700 residents.
Initially funded through federal pandemic relief dollars under the American Rescue Plan Act, Apprenticeship Advantage’s future beyond its first phase was uncertain. Because of Commissioner Lesley Briones’ support, $4 million of ongoing funding for the program was secured through the county’s general budget, ensuring its long-term sustainability and continued growth.
Today, the program is connecting residents to high-demand careers that offer stability, upward mobility, and long-term opportunity.
A different kind of calling
Out of about 100 people in his group, Nicholas is the only one who chose the elevator mechanic route.
“When they asked me if I wanted to be an elevator mechanic, I was thinking, ‘I don’t know anything about elevators,’” said Nicholas.
What he did know was that he needed direction. The elevator mechanic route offered more than a job. It offered discipline and a challenge that required him to be fully present.
“It’s helped me find something in myself that I’m really passionate about,” said Nicholas. “And it’s made me a more productive, motivated human being. It’s a good feeling.”
Before becoming an apprentice, participants complete a six-month probationary period. During that time, they learn Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines, safety standards, and the terminology that forms the foundation of the trade.
Now, Nicholas has entered the schooling phase of his apprenticeship. He is studying math, computer programs, electrical wiring, pipefitting, and other hands-on training that will continue over the course of four years. At the end, he will take a final mechanics exam to become certified.
But for Nicholas, the impact goes beyond the credential.
Rebuilding from the inside out
For the six short months that Nicholas has been in the program, the shift has been life changing.
He describes feeling clearer, more grounded, and more productive. Where his thoughts once spiraled, he now has problems to solve. Where there was uncertainty, there’s now progress he can measure year after year.
“As time goes by, you can see the progression and you tell yourself, ‘Wow, I really can do this,’” said Nicholas.
What started as technical training has become something deeper. Learning how to diagnose a problem, trust the process, and follow through on a solution is reshaping how Nicholas approaches challenges beyond work. The training isn’t just teaching him how elevators function. It’s teaching him how to think differently about problems, including his own.
Built for the long haul
And when asked what the future holds, Nicholas doesn’t hesitate.
“In five years, I see myself as a mechanic,” Nicholas said. “In 10 years, I see myself still doing this job and being better at it.”
He also sees himself right here in Harris County.
“I love it here,” Nicholas said with a smile. “I feel like it’s home.”
What started as a leap into the unknown has become a clear path forward. Skill by skill, Nicholas is building more than elevators — he’s rebuilding stability, confidence, and belief in what’s possible.