John Corkery

I received my initial Bruce Morrison Visa Program paperwork while living in Dublin. When I made the move to the U.S., I eventually settled in New Jersey, where I have now built my life and career.

At the time, Ireland was still experiencing economic struggles, with limited career prospects. The U.S., on the other hand, represented a place of opportunity – a country where hard work and determination could pay off in ways that weren’t possible back home.

With my background in the water sector, I saw an opening to bring the knowledge and skills I had developed in Ireland and Europe to a new market. The Morrison Visa made that possible, and I took the chance to start fresh.

One of the most pivotal moments in my early years was joining a small, family-run company in the water sector. My experience in Ireland proved invaluable, as I quickly realized that many of the technological advancements I had worked with in Europe mirrored those now emerging in the U.S. This gave me a unique advantage, I was able to integrate familiar systems and help advance the company’s growth.

“Perhaps the most defining moment of my career was leading emergency dewatering operations in the tunnels after the tragic events of 9/11.”

Being part of such a critical project, helping in the aftermath of one of America’s darkest days, was both a sobering and proud moment. It reinforced the importance of my work and the contributions immigrants like me could make to the country.

The greatest challenge we faced was financial. Despite finding employment in my field fairly quickly, it wasn’t enough to make ends meet. My wife and I took on second and third jobs, working night shifts and weekends to ensure we could establish ourselves securely.

Adapting to this new way of life was tough, but we were determined to make it work. We weren’t here for a short stint, we were committed to building a future. That long-term mindset helped us persevere through the difficult times.

“Moving to the U.S. was a transformative decision that shaped not only my career but also the future of my family. We knew from the outset that this wasn’t just an adventure, it was an opportunity to establish roots.”

Over the last 37 years, I’ve had the privilege of being part of a family-owned business that grew into a 100% employee-owned company. I played a key role in its expansion from a local service provider to an industry leader in the northeast region.

I’m particularly proud of my work overseeing the development of crucial infrastructure, including pump stations for flood control, water management, and wastewater treatment. These projects were about more than just engineering, they were about protecting communities and improving people’s lives.

The Morrison Visa program was life-changing, not just for me but for my entire family. It gave us the chance to build careers, contribute to society, and create a stable, fulfilling life.

I believe that both my wife and I have positively contributed through our work and dedication here in the U.S. The Morrison Visa didn’t just provide an opportunity for individuals, it allowed families like mine to thrive, and in turn, give back.

For future generations, it’s important to recognize the immense value that programs like this provide. They don’t just help immigrants; they enrich the countries that welcome them. The contributions of those who received Morrison Visas can still be felt today, and I am proud to be part of that legacy.