Transitioning out of military service can be a difficult journey, especially when it comes to finding a meaningful and sustainable civilian career. Workshops for Warriors (WFW) offers a direct path forward—helping veterans, transitioning service members, and wounded warriors earn nationally credentials and secure in-demand jobs in America’s advanced manufacturing sector.

Through accelerated training programs in Welding and CNC Machining, combined with a strong support system and national employer connections, Workshops for Warriors is transforming the lives of veterans in just 16 weeks.

Veteran Training in Welding and CNC Machining

Workshops for Warriors provides two accelerated, high-impact training tracks that can lead directly to employment opportunities in growing industries like aerospace, manufacturing, defense, and construction.

Welding Program

The Welding program at WFW prepares students for certifications, like those available through the American Welding Society (AWS). The complete Welding 1 program includes three welding process courses that must be taken in sequential order: Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding {GMAW-S (short-circuit), GMAW (Spray Transfer)} and Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW).

All training is hands-on and taught by certified instructors using industry-standard equipment.

CNC Machining Program

In the CNC Machining program, students are trained to operate, program, and troubleshoot advanced CNC machines. The CNC Machining 1 curriculum includes:

• • Immerse to Learn: A dynamic orientation that introduces students to the world of advanced manufacturing, including shop safety, professional expectations, and an overview of machining processes and career pathways.
  • SolidWorks (CAD): Students learn to create detailed 2D and 3D part models, assemblies, and technical drawings using industry-standard SolidWorks software. Emphasis is placed on parametric design, geometric relationships, and design intent.
  • MasterCAM (CAM): This course introduces students to the fundamentals of toolpath generation using MasterCAM. Students learn how to translate CAD models into efficient CNC programs for milling and turning operations.
  • CNC Milling: Students gain hands-on experience with CNC milling machines, focusing on machine setup, tool selection, workholding, and basic programming. Instruction includes G-code, feeds and speeds, and producing accurate milled components.
  • CNC Lathe: Students learn to operate CNC turning centers, including part setup, tool offsets, and programming for cylindrical parts. The course emphasizes precision, surface finishes, and safe machining practices.

Students can earn National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) credentials and pursue roles as CNC machinists, machine operators, or setup technicians.

Holistic Support for Student Success

What sets Workshops for Warriors apart is the comprehensive wraparound support that ensures students can focus entirely on training and certification.

Food Support

Thanks to a partnership with the San Diego Food Bank, WFW provides access to food for students in need. Meals and grocery support are available to help students maintain their health and well-being during their training journey.

Housing Assistance

Limited housing options are available for eligible students. WFW works to connect students with safe, nearby housing resources.

Clothing for Job Interviews

WFW helps students access professional attire for job interviews, ensuring they can present themselves confidently to potential employers.

Train with Fellow Veterans

Students train with fellow veterans who share your values, discipline, and work ethic. This sense of camaraderie creates a supportive and motivating environment where students lift each other up and succeed together.

Job Placement

The Career Services department at WFW is dedicated to helping students and graduates achieve their career goals. They provide assistance with resume writing, interview preparation, job placement, career counseling, and networking opportunities. Each term, WFW hosts a career fair, connecting students with potential employers. With these tools, graduates have the opportunity to secure employment after completing the program with long-term stability and career growth potential.

Changing Lives

Workshops for Warriors is more than a training institution—it’s a launchpad. Since its founding, WFW has trained over 1,400 students to help them obtain lifelong careers that are critical to rebuilding America’s infrastructure and manufacturing base.

By combining technical training, life support services, and a strong employment pipeline, WFW empowers veterans to succeed in civilian life and regain a sense of mission and purpose.