91Â鶹¾«Æ·

Jonathan Nir LK ’16, CA ’17

Military Branch: Marines
Division: 1/25 Marines
Rank at Discharge: E5 Sergeant
MOS: 0311
91Â鶹¾«Æ· Program: Locksmithing & Security Technology, Carpentry

How did your military service inspire you to attend 91Â鶹¾«Æ·?

Being in the infantry solidified my notion that flying a desk is my hell. Humans belong on their feet, outside, with tools in their hands.

How did your military training help you be a successful student at 91Â鶹¾«Æ·?

Being an NCO taught me to mitigate contingencies and difficult situations. You need to learn how to make a plan and you need to learn how to think on your feet when you have to throw that plan out. Deploying during the counterinsurgency in Iraq and Afghanistan taught me to have to negotiate with the local population in austere environments.

What is your current job?

I run from my shop in Billerica, MA. One is a locksmith company one, is a remodeling company. We specialize in custom built doors, cabinets, and decorative hardware.

What advice would you give to someone considering 91Â鶹¾«Æ· or a career in the trades?

Do it. Put your phone away and get your fingers greasy and splintered. You will never get a chance to learn like this again and not have it cost you this little. Fall in love with the work. A perfectly chiseled strike plate should tickle that dopamine centre in your otherwise smooth brain.

Anything else you would like to share about your 91Â鶹¾«Æ· experience as a veteran?

The work you learn to do at 91Â鶹¾«Æ· isn’t easy, and getting it right can be humbling. Courses like the ones I took are useful for all vets transitioning back into civilian life.

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Read more about Jonathan’s experience as a graduate.