Tommy Lands Machinist Job After Receiving Workshops for Warriors’ Certifications
February 11, 2016 - Tommy joined the Marine Corps as a Light Armored Vehicle Crewman envisioning himself going to college with a little help from the GI bill. He served from 1991 until 1997.
Tommy felt pigeonholed into typical post-service careers like being a mailman, police officer, or armored car driver. At the outset, he was unsure what field of study he wanted to pursue.
Before finding Workshops for Warriors, Tommy dabbled in a variety of different directions. “I worked construction and warehouse jobs. They were not for me. I tried starting my own business, but discovered that that is harder than it looks without lots of college. Most of my friends went into the police force. I was looking for something different.”
After settling at a local community college, Tommy heard word of Workshops for Warriors from a few of his buddies, and decided to give it a shot. He went through the program and took SolidWorks and Mastercam courses and is now employed as a machinist at UTC Aerospace in San Diego.
“My future is super bright now. I know exactly what degree I want to work towards. I am working toward a Mechanical Engineering Bachelor’s degree with a Master’s Degree in Business. I would like to start my own home business one day.”
Being a part of Workshops for Warriors has given Tommy direction, confidence, and certified skills, enabling him to provide for his a family and paving a road for a bright future.
Tommy received the following nationally recognized credentials:
- NIMS: CNC Milling: Programming Setup & Operations
- NIMS: CNC Turning: Programming Setup & Operations
- NIMS: Drill Press I
- NIMS: Job Planning, Benchwork, & Layout
- NIMS: Measurement, Materials, & Safety
- SOLIDWORKS Associate – Mechanical Design (CSWA)
For more on Workshops for Warriors success stories, go to workshopsforwarriors.org/success-stories.
Photo/Article courtesy of Workshops for Warriors
