From Mike Murillo
Last year, Bowie resident Quentin Adams realized his dream, developing websites and apps as a contractor for the federal government.
But when that job ended, one of the darkest chapters of his life began.
“They called me at the office and said, 'Yes, your last day will be Friday.' That was like Thursday. And I'm like, 'What?'” Adams said.
Adams, 61, had spent more than a year developing web applications as a contractor for USAID. He was unexpectedly fired last year, ahead of this year's DOGE cuts. While the exact reason for his departure was not clarified, he was told that there was no money left to continue in his role.
At the time, Adams was earning a six-figure salary. Now he delivers groceries and online shopping for Uber Eats and DoorDash to survive.
“I'm bumping up to $300 to $400 a week since I can't afford a car title and a mortgage,” he told WTOP.
He said the emotional toll of not being able to find a job in his field again is heavy.
“Significant” layoffs of federal workers were initiated by the Trump administration during the shutdown
“It's hard. It affects my faith,” Adams said, adding that his church's pastor is helping to encourage him.
Adams said he applied for many jobs, but despite 28 years of experience in software development, he was unsuccessful. At first he thought the holiday season was to blame, but in January he realized there were very few similar positions.
“I realized I've been submitting application after application on job boards, and I guess there's so much competition that we're all vying for the same job,” he said.
While Adams lost his job last year, this year's DOGE cuts have flooded the job market with thousands of newly laid off federal workers and contractors, making it even more difficult for him to find a position similar to the one he held.
“I have software development skills; I have some business skills; I have some project management skills, but I can't seem to get a job,” he said.
Experts say the surge in federal layoffs has increased competition for technology and contracting jobs, particularly in the D.C. region, where many rely on government work.
Adams recently received a job offer, but now fears it is off the table due to the current government shutdown.
As he continues to work gig jobs, he fears losing his car and falling deeper into financial trouble.
“Sometimes I wonder what the bottom line is? Yesterday I started looking for bankruptcy options,” he said. “If I file for bankruptcy, what does that mean for my possible clearance and my next job?”
Still, he is grateful for the income he earns from deliveries.
“It's something. At least it fills my gas tank,” he said.
And he remains hopeful.
“Keep hope alive. Stay close to prayer,” Adams said. “Keep trying.”
– As part of Maryland Matters’ content sharing agreement with WTOP, we are publishing this article by Mike Murillo. Click here for the WTOP News website.
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