At 47, Jennica Manriquez never imagined she’d be teaching others how to troubleshoot complex data center systems. For years, she worked as a mental health technician, dedicated to helping others heal. But after a car accident left her with a back injury, her medical career came to an abrupt end.
During her recovery, Jennica spotted a job posting on Indeed asking, “Are you interested in the infrastructure of the future?” She applied without knowing what it was for. It turned out to be an AWS training program at Ivy Tech. The four-week course has since changed her life completely.
“I was scared at first,” Jennica admits. “I always asked my kids how to copy and paste.” Technology felt foreign and intimidating. But something told her to take the leap.
The program exceeded every expectation. At the job fair that followed, the Amazon representatives stood out with their enthusiasm and genuine care. Jennica applied immediately.
Today, as a Data Center Operations (DCO) technician, Jennica says she’s gone from “ground zero to a level I never thought possible.” She’s part of a break fix team that keeps critical systems running smoothly, solving problems she didn’t even know existed months ago.
“I’ve never worked at a job where everyone actually wants to come to work,” she says, her voice filled with pride. The work-life balance, the supportive environment, and the opportunity for growth have given her a new career and the confidence to take on new challenges.
For Jennica, Amazon is proof that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. She’s especially hopeful about what these opportunities mean for South Bend’s future.
“This is the best job I’ve ever had,” says Jennica. “I can do anything. It made me feel like I can accomplish anything.”