Growing up in Vallejo, California, Gabriel wasn’t sure what he wanted to do after high school. His parents supported him and provided opportunities, but traditional academics never seemed like the right path.

“I didn’t really think school was for me.”

After graduation, he joined the Marine Corps Reserve and eventually spent years serving as a motor transport Marine. Although he had hoped to deploy, he often remained with his unit, helping maintain trucks and learning from mechanics along the way.

“That was good enough to tell me that I’m pretty competent with my hands.”

During and after his military service, Gabriel worked retail jobs, but he struggled to find fulfillment. He wanted a career where he could point to something tangible and know he had built it himself.

“I wanted something I can show my work for… I just wanted something I can leave behind and build.”

Like many veterans transitioning to civilian life, Gabriel found the adjustment difficult. Coming home from military service created a disconnect that many veterans understand.

“Everybody understands coming back home, you have to align and realign with people who you’re talking to, and you know where they’re coming from and respect them, but they don’t really understand where you’re coming from.”

He admitted the experience was isolating.

That feeling changed when he found Workshops for Warriors. Like many students, he first discovered the nonprofit trade school through social media. Videos of stick welding caught his attention, and he began searching for welding schools that accepted the GI Bill.

“I wanted to put that GI Bill towards something that caught my attention, see if I liked it.”

Soon, he found himself immersed in an environment that felt familiar – it was eye opening. Many of the instructors have military backgrounds, and the camaraderie reminded him of his time in uniform.

“It’s a lot more warm and welcoming than most of the retail places that I’ve been.”

As he progressed through the welding program, Gabriel poured himself into every assignment.

“I put the work, the work ethics, the effort and the thought into my whatever project I’m working on.”

His effort led to an unexpected opportunity when one of his classmates helped connect him with a job.

“That just tells me that I’m doing the best that I can. And that is enough for someone to see, to appreciate and to probably lead on to better things.”

For Gabriel, the position is only the beginning. His ultimate goal is underwater welding.

He believes that the work ethic he developed at Workshops for Warriors will continue to guide him.

“The work ethics and the effort I put in at the school follows me to where I’m going next.”

Perhaps more than anything, Gabriel values the people who have supported him throughout his journey. When asked what he will remember most about his time at Workshops for Warriors, his answer came immediately.

“That’s without a doubt.”

He credits the instructors and staff with providing guidance and encouragement throughout his training. Watching his classmates pursue different goals also changed his perspective.

“Everybody has their own situations. Everyone has their own aspirations, and honestly, just do whatever makes you happy.”

For veterans and transitioning service members trying to determine what’s next, Gabriel’s story is a reminder that uncertainty doesn’t mean failure. Sometimes finding purpose starts with trying something new, working hard, and surrounding yourself with people who understand where you’ve been.

Today, Gabriel is preparing for the next chapter of his career with gratitude and an eagerness to keep learning.

“I’m just grateful.”