The F-35 Integrated Assembly Line in Palmdale, California, must run efficiently, with safety and quality top-of-mind.
Never Lose Hope
Finding a career can be challenging, but ultimately the path leads to the right thing.
by Julie Knight
She once dreamed of becoming an Air Force pilot. Instead, fate drew Wendy Balbino-Salmorin to a different call of duty. She stayed home and worked two part-time jobs to help support her family.
Her Mom is Her Inspiration
“We faced challenges growing up, like poverty and discrimination. But my mom never let us feel the struggle. She taught us to never lose hope. And that if you work hard, good things will come to you,” said Wendy.
One of six kids, raised by a single mom, Wendy completed three years in the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Program during high school.
While she hoped to join the Air Force after graduation, when the time came, she couldn’t bring herself to do it.
It didn’t feel right because we were struggling to make ends meet. My mom had just started her daycare business and needed my help,” Wendy said.
Instead of joining the Air Force, Wendy juggled part-time jobs at both Panda Express and a Cinemark movie theater all while helping her mother launch her business.
Lost Angels Changed My Life
She credits the Lost Angels Career Center program in Lancaster for turning her life around —giving her whole family renewed hope for a better future.
The program helps disadvantaged 18- to 24-year-olds train for career opportunities. Northrop Grumman offers training to Lost Angels students interested in becoming aeronautics technicians.
