From Survival to Strength: How I Rebuilt My Life with Grit, Growth, and the Power of Community

Kristen’s story is one of heartbreak, hope, and incredible strength. Growing up in a world where survival came before dreams, she carried heavy doubts about her worth and future. But through every setback, Kristen refused to give up. She fought for a better life — for herself and her children — fueled by the belief that she was meant for more. Her journey through education, healing, and the Tech-Moms community is a testament to the power of resilience, bravery, and choosing to rise, even when it feels impossible.

We moved around a lot when I was a kid. When people hear that, their first question is always, "Were your parents in the military?" Nope, just really bad with money. I grew up thinking grocery store shopping and buying new clothes were luxuries for rich people. In our house, it was all hand-me-downs, dumpster diving, and public assistance. Life was simply about survival.

As an energetic, over-the-top kid, I was hard for my parents to handle. I was often told I was either too much or not enough: too loud, not smart, too in-your-face, not pretty, too lazy, not kind. Eventually, I believed them. I made poor choices in high school and barely graduated. Looking back, I can see I was dealing with serious mental health struggles. Thankfully, some incredible administrators helped me cross that stage and start living on my own.

College wasn't on my radar, I didn't have mentors guiding me, but I knew how to work. I had been earning a paycheck since my first job at 14, cleaning dog kennels, and I just kept moving forward.

At 20, I met a man who had a house, a job, and a car. Compared to the shed without power or running water where I'd been living in Arizona, life with him in Utah felt safe and stable. We married quickly, and soon, we were raising children. I decided their lives would be different from mine. I became a stay-at-home mom and poured everything I had into their well-being. I'd taken a few college classes before marriage but focused on supporting him in his education. I told myself I would go back someday.

After baby number four, I experienced severe postpartum depression. The negative beliefs from my childhood had never truly gone away, and I found plenty of evidence to support them. Though physically safe, my marriage wasn't a place of encouragement, support, or appreciation. I knew I needed to take action, something just for me. I applied to Salt Lake Community College. I didn't know what I would study or how I would juggle school and motherhood, but something deep inside told me it was the right step. I proudly put my SLCC acceptance letter on the fridge and got started.

It took me five years (and another baby!) to earn my associate degree. Five children under nine years old, and still, I kept going. After graduating from SLCC, I applied to Utah State University, where I was accepted with scholarships. Knowing I couldn’t stretch it out over another five years, I took a heavy course load, worked hard, and graduated Summa Cum Laude! Go Aggies!

I originally planned to be a stay-at-home mom and super volunteer, but life had other plans. I needed to work. I became an educator at high-need, high-poverty schools, an dI discovered I was good at it. I helped kindergarteners who didn't know a single letter begin reading and writing by year's end. I built strong relationships, managed projects, and helped my team succeed.

Meanwhile, my marriage became more and more unhealthy. After 21 years, I made the hard decision to end it. I was suddenly a single mom, trying to support five grieving children on a teacher's salary. I started planning my exit from education. First, I earned my Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. Throughout my teaching career, I had naturally taken on projects to create better outcomes; writing and distributing a supplemental kindergarten curriculum now used districtwide, securing university donations for students, and developing systems to track data and drive academic growth.

After completing my PMP, the next right step was Tech-Moms. Tech felt foreign, maybe even unreachable, but I knew I could learn. I'd known about the program for years but hadn't taken the leap, until January 2025. I cried in the parking lot on the first day. I was scared, overwhelmed, and busy. Something inside me said, "stay".

I kept showing up. I kept asking questions. I kept making mistakes and trying again. I wish I could go back and hug that scared girl and tell her: Be brave. Keep taking the next step. You are strong, smart, kind, and beautiful. It's going to work out.

Today, I'm actively applying to roles outside of education where I can use my management skills, new tech skills, and my passion for helping others reach their potential. I believe a rising tide lifts all boats, and that's why I love the Tech-Moms community. The founders built it intentionally: a space where women can heal, learn, and grow into more than they ever imagined. When I fall into fear or doubt, someone is always there to remind me: "We've got you. You can do this. We're here to help."

Kristen’s journey is a powerful message about grit, growth, and community. If her story resonates with you, know that you don’t have to take the next step alone. Tech-Moms is here to help you build skills, find community, and believe in your own potential. Whether you're ready to start something new or just need a place where people truly see you — we’re here. Learn more about our programs and how to get involved at tech-moms.org