By MHCC, The Mountain Times
The story of former Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC) students Misty and Walter Orzechowski stands out as an example of what our students can achieve through growth, hard work, and the right support. Their journey through MHCC’s welding program is not just about learning how to weld. It’s a tale of sibling support, overcoming hardships, and forging new paths.
Misty, who worked in fashion for 15 years, was laid off during the pandemic. Her situation was compounded by the challenge of finding employment for her brother Walter, who has autism and struggles with shyness and a lack of confidence. After a year of sporadic sewing jobs and ongoing frustration with Walter’s job placements, Misty decided on a major change.
“Welding was really left field, but it gave me the freedom to go anywhere. I needed to be able to pay my mortgage,” Misty said.
Misty’s choice to enroll in the welding program at MHCC with Walter was driven by more than just the pursuit of job security. It was about ensuring her brother could thrive.
“I felt really bad leaving Walter at home, being completely isolated,” she said.
From the outset of deciding to attend MHCC, Misty and Walter felt the decision was right and they had found a supportive place to grow. The head of the department met with them, easing Misty’s concerns and ensuring Walter would receive all the support he needed.
Walter achieved immense growth over the course of the program. Misty speaks candidly about the challenges and her initial overprotectiveness.
“A big challenge for me personally was just my fears for my brother. The faculty at MHCC really helped me with that,” she said.
This protective nature initially made it hard for Walter to fully engage on his own, but with the faculty’s guidance, Misty began stepping back, which allowed him to flourish.
“Seeing people believe in my brother – he’s a better welder than me,” Misty said.
Walter, reflecting on his experience, acknowledges the role the program and his sister have played in his growth.
“She could be difficult at times. But that’s kind of nice, to have someone to take me to class, to learn the skills I need for welding,” he said.
Today, both siblings work at a fabrication company. The skills Walter gained have opened the door to a future where he can be more independent, a prospect that fills Misty with a blend of pride and relief.
“It’s given us that opportunity – so he doesn’t have to have his annoying older sister around all the time. He can just have his own life and his own career,” Misty said.
Misty Orzechowski’s advice to current and prospective students resonates with her journey: “Showing up is the biggest thing. Even if you suck every day, just show up and let people know what help you need.”
This mindset has clearly served the Orzechowski siblings well, changing challenges into opportunities and uncertainty into security.