Robert, Marine Corps Veteran, Welding 1 Graduate

“To everyone at Workshops for Warriors, thank you. You’re amazing.”

Robert‘s journey from Marine to welder began while he was transitioning from the military to civilian life.

Hailing from a lineage deeply entrenched in the Marine Corps, Robert spent 13 years as a field radio operator and transmissions chief. He spent time deployed in Afghanistan and was stationed in Australia and Japan. As he began transitioning from the military, Robert found solace in the idea of focusing on his family and exploring a new career path.

“I’ve spent more time overseas than I have at home with my wife and kids,” Robert reflected, a sentiment echoing the sacrifices made in the line of duty. The decision to transition from the familiar cadence of military life to the uncharted territories of civilian endeavors was heavy on his mind.

Contemplating his options, Robert and his wife deliberated over a career aligned with his passion for working on cars. “Why not welding?” he thought, recognizing the potential of transforming his love for automotives into a tangible skill set.

Then Robert discovered Workshops for Warriors, a pivotal moment in his journey. “I loved what Workshops for Warriors had to offer. I decided that this is where I wanted to be,” he said.

The anticipation of stepping into the unknown while transitioning from the military was quickly overshadowed by the warmth of camaraderie and support at Workshops for Warriors. “My first couple of days here were amazing,” Robert shared.

Surrounded by instructors and teaching assistants who, like him, had served in the military, Robert discovered a sense of unity that mirrored that of the Marines. “The instructors and TAs are prior military, so we have a connection. It makes it easier for me to approach them,” he explained, emphasizing the shared understanding that smoothed his experience transitioning from the military back to the civilian world. “I like how this school feels like a unit,” Robert continued. “It feels like a home.”

Robert graduated from Workshops for Warriors’ Welding 1 program with 16 nationally recognized welding certifications. He enrolled in WFW’s intermediate Welding 2 course with eyes set on the future. He envisions one day opening his own shop, fabricating and working on old muscle cars and race cars.