Gilmer High School graduate Norma Solis is a three-time Future of Our Trades Scholarship recipient (2019, 2022, 2024).

After two years at the University of North Georgia, she transferred to Kennesaw State University to pursue construction management and will graduate in December 2026.

Her journey reflects determination and gratitude, and she’s passionate about breaking barriers in construction. Inspired by her family’s work in construction, Norma is committed to the field while challenging the notion that women are limited in it. “The scholarship has been a tremendous help in my career,” she shares. “My college path has taken longer than planned, but I am proud to remain completely debt-free. Not having to worry about financial burdens has allowed me to focus on my education and goals.”

She is pursuing internships to gain hands-on experience and apply classroom learning to real projects. Looking ahead, Norma hopes to begin her career with a commercial construction company, where the dynamic, ever-changing nature of the work excites her most. Her longterm vision is to build experience and eventually start a rental property business.

For students considering the trades, her advice is: “Go for it. The demand for skilled workers is high, and this path offers stability, growth, and the chance to build something meaningful.”