Ashley Nova: Step by Step, Building a Future in Alaska

When Ashley Nova first came to Alaska in 2018 to work summer seasons in salmon processing, she didn’t expect the state would become such a big part of her life. Growing up in Puerto Rico, she spoke Spanish at home and learned English from her grandparents. Over time, Alaska kept pulling her back, and eventually she decided to stay longer to explore new opportunities.

In early 2025, she discovered the Occupational Endorsement Certificate (OEC) in Millwright program at Prince William Sound College and enrolled for the spring semester. Balancing full days of work with evening classes wasn’t easy, especially learning technical vocabulary and math in her second language.

“There were days I was physically tired and mentally tired,” she said, “but it was all worth it.”

Her instructor, Spencer Heston, became a mentor and guiding force. “He motivates you. He believes in you. He became my mentor,” Ashley said.

After starting the program, Ashley gained hands-on mechanical experience at Silver Bay Seafoods over the summer as a mechanic helper. By August, she returned to complete her second semester at PWSC.

She then took on a challenging role as a confined-space painter for a contractor at Alyeska Pipeline. The work required strict safety training, and her millwright coursework on confined-space procedures proved essential.

“People think painting is simple,” she said, “but in a confined space, everything is different.”

Connections she made at Alyeska opened another door with Houston Contracting Company, where she accepted a laborer position. Each role has helped her gain valuable experience and build a strong resume.

“Every job helps my background grow,” she said. “I just want to keep learning.”

After months of long days, night classes, and dedication, Ashley will complete her OEC in Millwright in December 2025. She plans to return in May 2026 for the official PWSC Commencement ceremony, a moment she hopes to share with her mother, whom she wishes to bring from Puerto Rico.

Reflecting on her journey, Ashley hopes to inspire other students:

“Some days you’ll be tired. Some days, the work will feel hard. But if you stay disciplined and keep showing up, you will surprise yourself. The millwright program taught me that I’m capable of more than I imagined. If I can do it—learning in a second language and working long hours—you can do it too. Don’t give up.”

Recently rehired by Houston Contracting Company, she plans to stay in Valdez while continuing to build her skills. Her long-term goal is to join a union and eventually work on the North Slope, while also investing in real estate and supporting projects back home.

“Little by little,” she said, “I’m building my experience and my future.”