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William Licea’s story is one of redemption, hard work, and perseverance. From a life of crime and incarceration to a respected construction professional, Licea has proven that with the right mindset and support, anyone can turn their life around.
Born in New York to Cuban parents, Licea’s early years were marked by his environment leading him to poor decisions that led him down a dangerous path. He found himself involved in organized crime that involved burning down buildings in protest and ultimately spent 20 years in prison, including time on notorious Rikers Island.
After his release in 2011, Licea made a conscious decision to turn his life around. He found work in the construction industry and quickly proved himself to be a reliable and hardworking laborer. His dedication and willingness to learn caught the attention of his employer, who took Licea under his wing and taught him everything about the business.
With his newfound knowledge and experience, Licea continued to excel in his career. He earned his superintendent’s license and became a key player in some of the biggest construction projects in New York City, including Dominos Sugar Refinery. This is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
Licea’s journey from literally burning New York blocks to building up blocks of communities and skyscrapers inspired him to write a book, which he titled “From Burning Blocks to Building Blocks.” The book, available in both English and Spanish, chronicles his struggles and triumphs and serves as a source of inspiration for anyone who has faced similar challenges.
Licea credits his success to his family, his employer, and his “wolf mentality” – a fierce determination to succeed and overcome obstacles. He hopes that his story will encourage others to take the path of hard work and perseverance after prison rather than return to a life of crime.
William Licea’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to make a change and pursue a better life. His journey from incarceration to success in the construction industry is a true testament to the power of determination and the transformative potential of hard work. “The odds are against you when you are born in this environment, and when you get incarcerated, you have three paths… grab a gun, grab a bag of drugs or grab a job and become who you are meant to be.”
