Co-founders of the training program honored as everyday heroes

DENVER – These are words of wisdom for this year's graduating class coming from the co-founders of The Master's Apprentice.

“The path to the top involves many victories, but also many mistakes,” says Luis Villarreal, one of the co-founders of the non-profit organization. “But mistakes are good. Every decision shapes us. We will make mistakes, but they are not an obstacle to success.”

He does not speak to high school graduates, but to people of all ages and from a wide variety of backgrounds who are learning a trade.

“These graduation ceremonies always energize me, especially today,” said Scott Flores, the other co-founder. “Today's class is bigger than ever before.”

For these two, it's all work in a few weeks.

“The master craftsman apprenticeship is a bridge for people with low incomes to enter the job market, from the job into professional life, to the large craft organizations in our city,” said Villarreal. “It is a very simple model that leads to 80% of job placement and career in six weeks.”

They founded the program more than a decade ago, and their model was recognized at this graduation ceremony by the Lowe's Foundation, which presented them with a check for more than $900,000.

“There is a significant shortage of skilled tradespeople, and we believe that this creates opportunities,” says Betsy Conway, director of the Lowe's Foundation. “Organizations like Master's Apprentice help fill that gap and provide opportunities and training to help people find good jobs, earn a living and provide for their families.”

But that wasn't the only presentation of the day, as we had another surprise in store for the two men who are helping to change lives. We were proud to present them both with the Denver7 Everyday Hero Award!

“We are humbled to be recognized for the work we believe in and do every day,” Flores said.

Denver7 features a different everyday hero every week. To nominate a hero in your life, Click here.