From Orleans Technical College to a Multimillion Dollar Real Estate Portfolio

James is celebrating 20 years since graduating from Orleans Technical College’s Building Maintenance program and is now helping his son enroll in our HVAC program.

We talked with him to learn more about his life before and after making the decision to enroll in the building trades.

What made you decide to come to Orleans Tech 20 years ago?

I came to Orleans Tech in 2004 because I was looking for a new path and something constructive to do. I was bored with my day to day and wanted to learn how to fix everything in my house. I was able to buy my first house after two months at Orleans and fixed it up myself.

What was the biggest lesson you learned here?

I learned to pay attention because you only have six months to learn as much as you can.

Why do you recommend Orleans Tech to everyone you know?

Honestly, Orleans saved my life. I stopped doing things that were dangerous and lead to nowhere and started fixing houses.

What advice do you have for anyone interested in taking up a trade and enrolling at Orleans Technical College?

Everybody must know a trade. Come here and be prepared to learn skills you can use for the rest of your life.

What have you accomplished since graduating?

I now have a multimillion-dollar real estate portfolio with 25 properties throughout Philadelphia. With these properties, I rehab them, place them on the market for rent, and build my real estate portfolio.

If you’re ready to begin your building trades journey at Orleans Technical College apply today!

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