After serving nearly five years in the U.S. Air Force as a mechanic, Thomas Ramirez faced the same question many veterans do: What’s next? With valuable experience in high-pressure environments and a degree in architecture, Thomas had a diverse skill set. Yet, he struggled to find a civilian career that could merge his technical and academic background.
“I had a road map when I left the military,” Thomas shares, “but even with the Air Force’s transition programs, there’s just so much information out there. It wasn’t until I found JVS SoCal that things really started to click.”
Thomas discovered JVS SoCal’s Veteran First program at a local job center. Initially seeking a job in carpentry, he connected with the JVS SoCal team and quickly realized this wasn’t just another job board, it was a community ready to advocate for him.
“I wish I had found JVS SoCal first,” he says. “They helped me with resume writing and connecting directly with employers. But more than that, they treated my job search like a job itself—giving me the space and structure I needed to succeed.”
JVS SoCal’s Veteran First team helped Thomas highlight his military background and architectural training in a way that stood out to recruiters. Their guidance ultimately led to a connection with the social enterprise PRIDE Industries, where Thomas was hired for a role that blended his field and office skills. Today, he works as a program manager earning $100,000 per year.
“I started with facility space planning, and now I’m doing installation planning too,” Thomas explains. “It’s really a dream job that combines my education, military experience, and passion for hands-on work.”
Looking back, he’s grateful for the transformation the program offered, not just professionally, but also personally. “I didn’t think I’d be in a position like this.” says Thomas. “JVS SoCal changed my life.”
Today, Thomas continues to thrive in his role while staying connected to the veteran community. He credits JVS SoCal for helping him navigate the complex world of civilian employment and land a position that truly reflects his talents and ambition. “Every time I talk to a fellow veteran, I tell them: ‘Go to JVS. Treat the job hunt like a job. Show up, work hard, and use every resource they offer.'”
From uncertainty to stability, from transition to transformation—Thomas’ journey is a powerful example of what happens when veterans have the right support at the right time, which helped him find purpose.
If you’re inspired by Thomas’s story and would like to help someone else achieve their dream, please donate today.