Juan, Marine Corps Veteran, Welding Graduate

“Workshops for Warriors has helped ease my transition because I’m obtaining skills that I can actually use out in the civilian world. I’m being set up for success here.”

Juan Molina grew up in Carson, CA. His passion for sports throughout childhood led him to excel in baseball, catching the attention of a coach from Cal State Long Beach. He played for the school’s club baseball team while studying mechanical engineering. After earning his degree, Juan’s friend introduced him to the idea of joining the military. “She said she worked with aircrafts, so I thought I’d give it a chance,” he said.

Juan joined the Marine Corps in 2018 and became a cryogenic maintenance tech. As he neared the end of his military contract, he learned about Workshops for Warriors through SkillBridge. He was eager to secure post-military employment and excited by the hands-on nature of the program, so he enrolled in Workshops for Warriors Welding 1 program.

From his first day at WFW, Juan found solace in the familiar presence of fellow veterans and active-duty personnel. “I didn’t know what to expect, but everyone was either a veteran or active duty. It made me comfortable,” he said.

When asked how training at Workshops for Warriors has helped with his transition out of the Marine Corps, Juan said, “Workshops for Warriors has helped ease my transition because I’m obtaining skills that I can actually use out in the civilian world,” Juan said. “I’m being set up for success here.” he continued.

Juan was offered a full-time job as a welder before graduating with 16 nationally recognized credentials in April 2023. Reflecting on his experience at WFW, Juan encourages other veteran or transitioning service members to consider enrolling at Workshops for Warriors. “I’d 100  percent try to convince them to train here,” he said. “Career-wise it will really go a long way and I’d highly encourage them to come.”

To the instructors and staff at Workshops for Warriors, Juan extends his gratitude. “Thank you for this opportunity,” he said.