Success Story: Arturo Lopez

Company: Wells Fargo Role: Lead Infrastructure Engineer What were you doing prior to your break and what prompted you to return? Before my break, I was working with Oracle and had over 20 years of professional experience. However, due to outsourcing, I was unfortunately laid off. At that time, I decided to take some time to rest and focus on my own self-care. During that time I also stayed focused…

[Recording] A Returner’s Guide to Preparing for a Technical Interview

Recording Watch a recording of this October 19, 2023 webinar to learn how to prepare for technical interviews. Interviews for technical positions often include a skills component that fills returners with dread. It’s understandable. If you’ve been out of the workforce for several years, how can you show your technical competence when so much has changed? We’ve got you! This one-hour webinar provides insider tips and advice for conquering everything…

The Big Benefits of a Smile File

Earlier in my career, I remember reporting to a new office after a promotion. One of the first things I noticed was that everyone had a manila folder with a smile drawn on it on their desk. Curious, I asked a friendly face what the folders were for, and her matter of fact response of “they’re our smile files” let me know I was missing something. Seeing my confusion, she…

The Pros and Cons of Hiring a Resume Writer

One question we’re often asked is “Should I hire a professional resume writer?” No wonder! A well-polished resume is a key marketing tool for your return to work. Ideally it showcases your relevant work experience (both paid and unpaid), degrees, and certifications, and demonstrates that you’re qualified for the position you’re applying for. It’s also the first and lasting impression you’ll make on the recruiter or talent acquisition specialist who’s…

Pivoting is Possible | Real Advice From Returners

As you think about returning to work, you may end up deciding that your previous career field is no longer the one for you. Maybe you worked in an industry that has become obsolete or your motivations have changed or you simply want to do something different. A fresh start may be exactly what you want and need! We call this “pivoting” and while it adds an extra layer to…

Should I Apply for Returnships or Regular Jobs or Both? Top 5 Returnship Advantages

A frequent question we get at Path Forward is: “Should I apply for returnships instead of applying for regular jobs?” Ultimately, only you can decide the best way to restart your career! We know, though, that many people with a career break find it’s difficult to be considered for full-time positions. The road back can be a steep one when you have a resume gap. Because returnships are purpose-built for…

Success Story: Sherri Ruhl

Sherri Ruhl took a break from her career as the director of technology at the Houston Symphony when she had her second child. After a 16-year gap for childcare, eldercare, and many family moves, Sherri felt ready to return to the workforce. After learning about returnships, Sherri applied for and completed a returnship at Trimble, where she now works full-time as a business analyst. She talks about her return-to-work experience,…