Tradespersons who are finding regular work hard to come by could follow the example of Pasadena electrician Sammy Sanchez and try to gain numerous approved electrical qualifications.
According to the Pasadena Star-News, Mr Sanchez - who lives in the Californian city, which has a population of 150,000 - has had a troubled past, with stints in prison and alcohol problems, while has often struggled to find employment.
However, the publication said that he has taken a number of training courses, which - along with his new-found faith - has earned him a place in a local union and left him determined to provide as good a service as possible.
The paper said that during the interview, he showed off his list of qualifications, which included forklift driving, electrical panel work, apprentice training and light fixture services.
His mother Paz Sanchez commented that these skills mean he could eventually find himself in high demand.
She said: "He's willing to do anything."
"He'll help anybody. And when he does, he's a perfectionist," she added.
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