Military Veterans

My name is Raul V. Gutierrez. I am from New York City, NY, just turned 47, and am a service-connected, disabled Veteran. While serving in Iraq, I became wounded and received the Purple Heart along with several other medals. As a Combat Engineer, I was regularly involved in conflict and fighting but would gladly do it all over again.

I joined the U.S. Army in October 2003. I had always wanted to join, but three reasons finally inspired me to enlist: first, in honor of my friend, Nereida Dejesus, who was killed on September 11, 2001, in the Twin Towers. This was a very sad day, not only for me but for the whole country and especially for the families of all who were lost.

The second reason was to better support my son and family. I was struggling in New York City, working three jobs to help support the oldest of my five kids. He is now 24 years old and is studying biology in college.

The final reason for enlisting was that I felt like I wasn’t accomplishing anything even though I was working so hard. So, I decided to join in honor of my friend, to support the country that I love so much, and for my family.

The most significant adjustment to Army life was that at 31, I was an older recruit. Many young people that I met were not as motivated as I was; I believe that I helped change their attitudes though!

I worked as a Combat Engineer, performing construction and demolition tasks under combat conditions, checking the roadways for improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and assisting with the movement and support of our troops. This job was incredibly dangerous, but someone had to do it; I loved that I genuinely made a difference and kept everyone safe.

I deployed to Iraq three times; the first tour was from Jan 2005 to Feb 2006. While in the green zone (the heavily fortified governmental center) it was safe but when we traveled out to clear roads, it was a different story. During a road survey in 2005, we ran into a large IED. I received shrapnel wounds and experienced severe disorientation. Unfortunately, our Staff Sgt, Ronell Bradley, had lost both of his legs in the attack. Helping him to safety that day was a huge accomplishment, but I experienced a lot of guilt. Later that year, my company, Company E, Task Force 4-64 Armor, 4th Brigade (combat) won the Itschner award (for the best Engineer Company in the army).

[Raul Gutierrez lives with loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage; it has been my privilege to know him for over ten years. Raul was a devoted and loyal soldier who supported the leadership and his fellow soldiers. As his squad leader, I saw him put the welfare of the nation, the Army, and his fellow soldiers before his own with impeccable integrity and personal courage; Raul has and is one of the main reasons why I am still alive today. While serving together in Baghdad, Iraq, our vehicle was hit by an Improvised Explosive Device. I sustained life-threatening injuries and lost both legs and part of my right hand. Raul risked his life to save mine by getting me out of the vehicle so that I could receive medical treatment. His dedication, leadership, and motivation reflect distinct credit upon himself, the United States Army, and the United States of America. -Sergeant Ronell Bradley]

For my second tour, I was stationed at FOB Falcon outside of Baghdad from October 2007 through December 2008. Our company was mortared daily, and we often had to run for cover. I went back for a final tour to Iraq from August 2010 to July 2011 and was promoted to Staff Sergeant squad leader, managing ten soldiers and several vehicles.

I was medically discharged from the military in 2014 and moved to El Paso, TX. The transition to civilian life was stressful; I felt lost, alone, confused, and in need of a purpose. I would occasionally still get up in the morning and put my uniform on. Certain loud noises and landscapes, like the desert of El Paso, brought up strong memories and emotions of being in Iraq. Interaction with civilians was difficult since they often do not have the same sense of duty.

Re-entering the civilian workforce was a challenge; I applied for jobs everywhere, for over a year, with no results. I think my military background hurt my chances because many businesses don’t understand how to support veterans, especially those with disabilities or PTSD, nor do they bother to try. One day, my brother-in-law told me they were hiring at PRIDE Industries, where he worked.

I would often call PRIDE’s HR department and speak to AbilityOne Recruiter Cynthia Baca. She was helpful and told me that she would call with any new openings. Eventually, I got a call from HR Assistant, Hilda Loera, for an interview on the same day my wife and I had gotten the keys to our home. I couldn’t believe it, what were the chances? I went to Ft. Bliss that week and got the job.

I was hired as a General Maintenance Worker (GMW) in the Facilities West department and moved up to GMW/Estimator in the Facilities East department; March 7th, 2019 was my third anniversary! I love my job, especially getting to work with young soldiers. My army lingo slips at times, but it helps solidify my work relationships with them. Now, whenever I go to the barracks, I use military lingo and get the job done, or I’ll challenge them to push-ups. I haven’t lost a challenge yet and have the video to prove it!

Working with PRIDE has been a godsend. My disabilities from wartime service include PTSD, lower back and knee issues; resulting in chronic pain, stress-triggered headaches, short-term memory loss, and trouble focusing. I’ve met so many people with many different disabilities that I don’t feel alone, confused, or that I need to hide; I feel at home.

PRIDE is different from other companies, and with the support I receive, I am inspired to do my best. There’s nothing better than feeling comfortable in your own skin, especially at a job where you’re not looked at differently because of a disability. My supervisor understands my goals and accommodations and provides me with flexibility to attend my appointments at the VA Hospital.

I love getting up in the morning and coming to work. It helps so much to have other veterans around because we understand each other so well. I have a lovely home and family in El Paso and do not plan to go anywhere else. I would love to further my knowledge of my trade and career and move up into management with my own office so I can hang my NY Giants, NY Knicks, and NY Yankees banners on the walls (since there are too many Dallas fans around here!).

PRIDE provides meaning, for myself and other colleagues with disabilities.

Are you a veteran?

Contact our Veterans Employment Advantage Program for support.

“PRIDE is different from other companies, and with the support I receive, I am inspired to do my best.”

After graduating high school in southern Michigan, Veronica Arquette moved out and found a job at a record store. She felt it was an amazing experience, but eventually, she wanted to do something different with her life.

To embark on a new adventure, Veronica Arquette joined the U.S. Air Force in May 2001 as a young adult, enlisting as a Security Forces member (the Air Force military police). After attending basic training at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, TX, she deployed to Okinawa, Japan, as part of the 18th Security Forces Squadron.

“Living in Japan was an adjustment at first, but it was wonderful getting to learn about Okinawa and Japanese culture. I also got the chance to meet people from many different countries.”

“After four years of serving abroad in 2005, I decided to end my service as an E-4 Senior Airman because there were no options to advance. I returned home to Michigan to decide my future, and after a short decision period, I decided to enlist again.”

In 2007, Veronica joined the U.S. Army as a Human Resources Specialist, managing awards, vacation, and pay for the soldiers. She deployed to a variety of countries including Cuba, South Korea, and Afghanistan. “Afghanistan was an intense experience – I had been recently promoted to Sergeant and was responsible for moving soldiers to different bases across the country. During these 14 months, we all had to concentrate on keeping safe together daily.”

“The highlight of my service is when I returned home in 2011 from Afghanistan to Ft. Campbell, KY. It felt incredible getting off the plane and seeing my mom, dad, and sister, knowing I had made it safely home to them.”

Two years later in 2013, Veronica retired from the military as an E-6 Staff Sergeant due to Snapping Scapula Syndrome, which affects the back and shoulders. “I acquired this disability from carrying too much weight while deployed; it unfortunately still often affects my day to day activities.”

“My following transition to civilian life was hard. Since my husband (who I had met in the Army) is still on active duty, I had to start the job hunt all over again. Finding a good job is a challenge since competition is fierce around military bases, especially among military spouses who also had to relocate. I have the most supportive husband, but it was still a difficult time for me.”

Fortunately, Veronica joined PRIDE’s Fort Johnson (formerly Fort Polk) contract in 2017 as a Human Resources Assistant after moving there in 2016. “I knew that it was going to be a challenge to find a job position in such a rural area; due to my experience, employers often told me that I was overqualified. However, PRIDE Industries gave me a chance that I never thought I would get.”

“Today, nothing brings me more joy than my husband, dogs, and helping the employees at PRIDE Industries; it feels like an extension of my military service.”

As a retired soldier, Veronica is expertly able to navigate through military protocols and help other veteran employees and those with disabilities, including with procedures such as family medical leave act (FMLA), payroll and direct deposit, and medical plans.

“Even though I am now working as a civilian, I enjoy being connected to the military. I appreciate the opportunity more than words can say.”

“My advice for any veteran that is experiencing troubles with transitioning is not to give up! You often can feel stuck adjusting to a new career and lifestyle, but there are so many resources and other veterans who will reach out and help you.”

Are you a veteran?

Contact our Veterans Employment Advantage Program for support.

“My advice for any veteran that is experiencing troubles with transitioning is not to give up! ”

Mario Muniz is an employee at PRIDE’s Ft. Bliss, TX Integrated Facilities Management contract. A veteran with a disability, Mario struggled to find work after being laid off during his transition to civilian life. With the help of PRIDE Industries’ employment veterans programs, Mario was soon able to start a fulfilling new job at a military base, where he has the opportunity to help others like himself.

Employment Programs for Veterans

Mario served in the U.S. Army from 1971 to 1973 as a Staff Sergeant, including a tour in South Vietnam. He concurrently served in the Texas National Guard from 1973 to 1990. As a result of his service, Mario developed multiple disabilities, including major depressive disorder, bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, personality disorder and left lower extremity radiculopathy (mechanical compression of a nerve root).

“Mario has overcome many obstacles related to his disabilities, including emotional control issues that became more difficult to manage after his military service,” said PRIDE Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Corina Huerta. “He felt frustrated since he could not thoroughly explain his challenges to others, including his family. Counseling from the Veterans Administration (VA) proved helpful in addressing these issues.”

Even so, like many veterans, Mario experienced difficulty applying military skills to civilian jobs. Facing unemployment for almost a year, he earned a certificate from the Texas Workforce Commission in Construction Management. Despite his best efforts, finding a job still proved elusive. This all changed when a friend at his church referred him to PRIDE Industries’ employment program. PRIDE offers a range of services, such as vocational training and job placement assistance, for veterans with disabilities or other barriers to employment.

“Connecting with PRIDE was such a positive experience,” said Mario. “AbilityOne Recruiter Cynthia Baca truly went above and beyond to help me, especially when I was going through such difficult times.” In December 2011, Mario was hired as a Maintenance Trades Helper with the Facilities East Department.

To help support him in his job, Mario has been provided with many accommodations including vocational rehabilitation counselors that are trained in assisting veterans, lifting, and physical restrictions, and additional breaks as needed.

Finding Fulfillment in Helping Other Veterans

Through his hard work and his impressive skill set, Mario earned two promotions within the first year of his hire. He quickly moved on to General Maintenance Worker and Carpenter. Now he serves on the Carpentry Department Employee Advisory Committee.

“Working on the familiar environment of a military base was beneficial in helping me connect with my new career,” said Mario. “My favorite moment was working in the ‘You Do It’ shop, where I helped military service members complete woodcraft projects. I saw it as an opportunity to help fellow veterans keep their minds away from psychological stressors. It is a wonderful feeling to help them feel welcome at work.”

Mario now contributes to PRIDE’s inclusive and supportive environment by training and mentoring new employees, including many with disabilities. Mario desired to communicate better with his colleagues that are Deaf and/or hard-of-hearing. To that end, Mario participated in an after-work American Sign Language (ASL) class offered by PRIDE’s Job Coaches.

“Not only does my job give me the opportunity to feel productive, but also to raise morale for service members,” said Mario. “Joining the military is not an easy lifestyle; it can often feel lonely and difficult, especially when you are away from home and missing your family. ” Mario also gives back beyond his job, hosting service members during the holidays and actively volunteering in his church.

“Mario continues to feel appreciated by the positive feedback received and friendships made with our military customers,” said Corina Huerta. “It’s been wonderful seeing him overcome obstacles and grow in his role.”

Attention veterans

PRIDE Industries’ veterans programs are available to those looking for an easier transition into civilian jobs. Whether we place you into a base or help match your skills to another job, you can find fulfilling employment with PRIDE employment services.

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“Connecting with PRIDE was such a positive experience. AbilityOne Recruiter Cynthia Baca truly went above and beyond to help me, especially when I was going through such difficult times.”

Following an overhaul of the central courtyard on the Los Angles Air Force Base (LAAFB), Raul Alvarez, a rising star on the PRIDE Industries Grounds team, was recognized with a challenge coin, a U.S. military tradition used to recognize a special achievement or boost morale, by Lt. Col. Little for his crucial part in the continued beautification of the site.

Raul joined PRIDE Industries’ Integrated Facilities Management contract at LAAFB only 14 months ago. He was referred to apply by PRIDE Industries’ Grounds Manager Nelson Osorio, who met Raul while he was working at Brightview Landscaping at the nearby Aerospace.

Since joining the team at 61 CELS, Raul has worked with the Grounds Shop and Irrigation Team, as well as helping General Maintenance Workers of various trades. His proficiency and dedication make him a go-to for training new hires and ensuring the base’s high standards are met.

Recently, the central courtyard area was experiencing many problems, including broken irrigation and dying grass that needed to be replaced. Raul helped with a project to fix these issues. In the end, the results were outstanding.

“[Lt. Col. Little] said that the base looks fantastic,” Raul says. “It’s a team effort. Everyone put in hard work to make the courtyard look its best.”

“It was a surprise [to get the coin]. It made me feel great. I was just happy, and it makes me want to work harder and prove myself. This is just the first opportunity, and each year you’ve got to get better. I enjoy the chance to continue learning with PRIDE Industries and plan to work towards a supervisory role.”

We appreciate Raul’s hard work and dedication towards LAAFB. Our employees like him help PRIDE Industries provide excellent service in helping our customers reach their goals.

Are you a veteran?

Contact our Veterans Employment Advantage Program for support.

“ I enjoy the chance to continue learning with PRIDE Industries and plan to work towards a supervisory role.”

“I felt unhappy with the low-wage jobs I held before I enlisted in the Navy. Joining the military awarded me an excellent opportunity to learn new vocational skills and the ability to serve my country around the world.”

Aaron Puente joined PRIDE Industries in 2011 as a Safety Manager at FOSSAC (Fitting Out and Supply Support Assistance), San Diego. His hard work and expertise in Shipboard Safety have led to a safer and more conducive environment for PRIDE’s employees; under his leadership; the site won the 2017 AEU’s (American Equity Underwriters) Safety Award in the Stevedores (Ship Loader) Small Employer Category.

Before starting his career with PRIDE, Aaron served in the Navy for 24 years. “My retirement and transition to civilian life had its struggles,” said Aaron. “For years I was programmed to do things a certain way. Fortunately, PRIDE found me at the right time as I retired in 2011. As we revised the safety protocols, my military skills helped give me the expertise to make the necessary changes in order to protect our employees while making our customer happy.”

“I enlisted in the Navy on July 9, 1987, as an E1 Non-Designated Seaman, later moving up to a Signalman (sailors that specialize in visual communication). At basic training, I still recall being woken up at 4AM by the company commander throwing a trash can while being yelled at by the ACC (Assistant Company Commander). I remember thinking ‘what did I get myself into?’”

“My first ship was the USS Truxtun CGN 35; in 1988, while onboard I was involved in Operation Praying Mantis (an attack on April 18, 1988, by U.S. forces retaliation for the Iranian mining of the Persian Gulf during the Iran–Iraq War and the damage to an American warship) in the Strait of Hormuz between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. This was the start of the Gulf War, also known as Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm in late 1989 to mid-1990, which I also fought in while being stationed onboard the USS Jason AR 8.”

“During my service, I was taught a variety of vocational skills. As a Seaman, I learned Morse Code and nautical flag (semaphore) signals. Later as a Navy Counselor, I learned administrative skills, shipboard safety and management. However, the most important skill I learned was leadership, especially when I was promoted to E5, Leading Petty Officer. There was a lot of trial and error, but I adjusted and developed my style of leadership that helped me move further in rank and responsibility.”

“Before I joined the Navy, I only had a high school degree. With their support, I earned a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership and Management, and an Associate degree in Counseling and applied psychology.”

“I retired after 24 years of honorable service as an E7 Navy Counselor (Career) Chief. I wish I could have “stayed Navy” even longer, but I had reached the maximum number of years to serve in my position.”

“Transitioning from military life to civilian life is difficult. For many years you are in a job you love, thinking you’ll be there forever. Then in the blink of an eye, you are retired. Keeping your military professionalism is crucial because it distinguishes veterans from others in civilian jobs. Enrolling in support programs can also help; the Navy has an excellent transitioning program called Senior Enlisted Assistance Transitioning Program (SEATAP), or the National Veterans Transition Services, Inc (REBOOT).”

“As a veteran with a disability, I have been proud to contribute to FOSSAC, San Diego’s success and to help create opportunities for others with disabilities. At the end of every workday, I come home happy and with a smile on my face, knowing that I made a difference and that I continue to serve my country, and did so for 24 years with honor.”

Are you a veteran?

Contact our Veterans Employment Advantage Program for support.

“As a veteran with a disability, I have been proud to contribute to FOSSAC, San Diego’s success and to help create opportunities for others with disabilities. ”

In 2018 Don Andrus joined PRIDE Industries’ Veteran Employment Services team in Fort Bliss, TX, through PRIDE’s internship program. Don began working in Rehabilitation Counseling to help veterans to hone their skillset and find meaningful jobs.

Don is a proud U.S. Army Disabled Veteran with 26 years of honorable military service. His distinguished 26-year career involved 14 separate tours of duty stateside and overseas, including Haiti and Honduras. Don earned several military awards and decorations including the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and the Adjutant General’s Corps Order of the Horatio Gates (Bronze) Medal awarded for distinguished achievements and service to the Adjutant General’s Corps (AGCRA).

A Strong Background in Veteran Employment Services

In the military, Don served in several different roles, including Human Resources. “I worked with many veterans with disabilities and witnessed how unaddressed mental health issues and post-traumatic stress disorder affected their chances of gaining or retaining employment.”

After retiring as a Sergeant First Class in 2010, Don himself struggled to obtain employment in his career field. So he decided to pursue his lifelong goal: earning a college degree. He graduated “magna cum laude” with a BA degree in Management and Human Resources from Park University. He was accepted to the Masters of Rehabilitation Counseling Program at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). His goal was to establish a career as a VA Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor.

Don is making great strides towards his goal. As a Graduate Research Assistant, he has co-authored articles including “Examining the Impact of ‘This Is My Brave’ on Mental Illness Stigma and Willingness to Seek Help: A Pilot Study” involving a study with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) El Paso’s Peer-to-Peer Education Program for adults with mental illness.

When he is not working on his degree, Don is an active volunteer in the El Paso community. He helps at Special Olympics events and participates in several community-led group forums that focus on mental health awareness. He was featured in UTEP Alumni Magazine for his work with the Opportunity Center for the Homeless of El Paso.

Expanding Vocational Training at PRIDE Industries

To gain more practical experience and insight into working with veterans with disabilities, Don joined PRIDE’s Employment Services team as an intern. PRIDE’s Ft. Bliss Integrated Facilities Management contract employs around 530 people, including 272 employees with disabilities and 68 veterans. With a team of Rehabilitation Counselors and Job Coaches, PRIDE identifies disabled veterans’ abilities and transferable skills for customized job placement and employment sustainability.

In his position, Don assists the Vocational Rehabilitation team with caseload management to maintain AbilityOne® compliance. He makes appointments with our employees, writes accommodations for disabilities or medical issues, schedules sign-language interpreters, and helps conduct the annual AbilityOne® evaluation process. Through individual assessments, Don also provides employees with resources and guidance, connecting them with the Employee Assistance Program or scheduling Functional Capacity Evaluations.

“When I evaluate an employee’s needs, exhibiting empathy and compassion are crucial when learning about their challenges and obstacles,” said Don. “As a result, my communication, critical thinking and listening skills have all improved throughout my internship.”

Making a Difference with Veteran Employment Services at Ft. Bliss

Don has already made a significant difference in the lives of our employees. Recently, a PRIDE employee and veteran reached out to describe his positive interaction:

“I wish to express my total appreciation to Don Andrus for our meeting on Thursday morning. He exhibited a professional attitude, and I felt that he genuinely wanted to get to know me. Don put in an effort to understand how I think and operate. I look forward to our next meeting; he is an excellent counselor in the rehabilitation department.”

We have been privileged to work with Don at PRIDE Industries and wish him the best as he continues his path to earning a career as a VA Vocational Counselor. “It’s been truly exciting to work with PRIDE Industries and have an opportunity to apply my military and human resources expertise,” said Don. “The Ft. Bliss Rehab team has over 25 years of cumulative experience, and it has been a wonderful experience to learn from them.”

Move forward in your career

If you’re a veteran looking to build your career, PRIDE Industries is here for you.

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“I want to give back and help veterans with disabilities live independently and adapt to the civilian work culture.”