Axel Orellana’s Public Testimony Before the Committee of the Whole

Good afternoon, Council Chair Mendelson and City Council Members. I’m a proud resident of Ward 4 and a 2022 graduate of Capital City Public Charter School.

Before I began my apprenticeship, I planned to juggle college, a retail job, and, hopefully, an internship to make ends meet while trying to break into the tech world. But when I discovered CareerWise DC, I saw a pathway aligned with my financial needs and career ambitions.

I joined CareerWise DC because I wanted real work experience in my field while pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering. In today’s job market, with frequent layoffs and economic uncertainty, the stability of an apprenticeship has given me peace of mind and helped protect me from financial hardship.

I now work at Limbic Systems, led by CEO Marullus Williams and based here in DC, developing software for government contracts. My work involves programming applications and integrating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence. While I can’t speak in detail about specific projects due to client confidentiality, I’m especially proud of contributing to an application that connects multiple aspects of the tech stack—front-end, back-end, APIs, and AI. It’s been a truly interdisciplinary challenge and an incredible learning experience.

This apprenticeship has given me a deep understanding of full project cycles and the inner workings of the tech industry. I’m not just coding—I’m part of a team solving real problems with real impact.

At Limbic Systems, I am trusted as an employee and supported as a learner. The company allows me to work around my college schedule at the University of the District of Columbia, where I study Computer Engineering. And the mentorship I receive—from both my employer and CareerWise DC—has been essential. From technical coaching to help accessing emergency resources during difficult times, I’ve been supported every step of the way.

This apprenticeship has expanded my vision for the future. I now aspire to become a tech executive or even start my own tech company in DC. I’ve grown more confident, especially when making decisions, discussing emerging technology, and stepping into leadership. And I’m more motivated than ever to give back to my community.

To anyone who doesn’t fully understand the difference between an internship and an apprenticeship: internships are usually short-term—3 to 6 months—with limited responsibility and time for growth. On the other hand, apprenticeships are longer-term (often 1 to 3 years), offer better job security, and allow for real development and advancement. It was fantastic to complete my internship at Genesys Works and then work for the organization as an apprentice when I started college.

This experience has been successful because of having an incredible mentor and boss, Marullus Williams, at Limbic Systems, and the support and guidance from CareerWise DC staff, who helped me stay on track and even helped me access food and transportation support during tough times.

If the District wants to stay competitive, close the poverty gap, and give more young people a real shot at success, investing in youth apprenticeship programs is one of the smartest moves it can make. Other states are catching on, and DC should lead.

Please continue supporting opportunities for young people to get hands-on, applied learning experiences in the workplace. These programs are not just about jobs but economic mobility, equity, and hope.

I’ll never forget the day I was accepted into my apprenticeship. It was an emotional moment that reminded me there is hope—and a future I can build for myself right here in DC.