James moved to Atlanta in 1984. He promised his childhood sweetheart that he would get a job and eventually start his own business and then send for her. Once he arrived, things took a turn for the worse.
His problem was that he quit school at an early age and tragically, he couldn’t read or write and had few skills attractive enough to be hired. Although his formal education was nil, he had his informal lessons from his parents and grandparents. Be honest, work hard, and Do What You Promised You Would Do (DWYPYWD).
His greatest values were a strong work ethic and his integrity. He interviewed for labor positions but most supervisors required him to read labels, invoices, and to sign his name (which he couldn’t do). Finally, James landed a job as a Dry Wall Installer. He worked six days a week but stayed an additional 90 minutes-he never left a job incomplete and he didn’t leave until the job was perfect. His supervisors began to take notice and promoted him to team leader.
The company owner noticed his humility and leadership style and offered James a supervisor’s position. Sadly, James couldn’t accept it-he couldn’t read work orders or invoices. Two years passed and James reached a pay cap for his position but still had a desire to have his own business. Today, James has his own Dry Wall Contracting business with 143 employees and 14 vehicles. He still doesn’t read or write but his ability to recognize character allowed him to choose an advisor and an excellent accountant.
James’s real name is Jaime Palacio who moved here from Mexico 17 years ago. Although he didn’t get very far with his formal education, he has a conviction for work ethic and integrity which have taken him farther than many. Jaime did what he promised what he would.
