Honoring Heroes and Building Futures at the 2025 Forging Futures Gala

The USS Midway Museum will transform into a beacon of hope and celebration on May 31, 2025, as Workshops for Warriors (WFW) presents the highly anticipated Forging Futures Gala. Set against the dazzling San Diego Bay, this unforgettable evening will honor the brave men and women who have served our country and are now forging new careers in advanced manufacturing.

An Evening of Inspiration and Impact

Picture yourself dining beneath the stars on the flight deck of the USS Midway, where history meets heroism. This black-tie affair will feature a gourmet dinner, electrifying entertainment by Bonnie Foster Productions, and a high-energy live auction brimming with exclusive experiences. More than just an elegant evening, the gala offers an opportunity to meet the veterans whose lives have been transformed by WFW’s world-class training programs.

Throughout the night, guests will hear moving firsthand accounts from WFW graduates—stories of perseverance, resilience, and triumph. From navigating the challenges of civilian transition to mastering in-demand skills in welding and CNC machining, these veterans have turned their military discipline into thriving careers.

Transforming Lives Through Skilled Trades

For many veterans, the shift to civilian life can be overwhelming. WFW offers a crucial bridge, providing hands-on training and nationally recognized certifications in two of the fastest-growing industries in modern manufacturing. Since its founding in 2008, WFW has empowered over 1,400 veterans, awarding more than 18,000 certifications that lead to stable, well-paying careers.

“The need has never been greater, and the community’s support has never meant more,” said Hernán Luis y Prado, Founder & CEO of Workshops for Warriors. “America’s servicemen and women have always been the first to fight—now, it is our turn to fight for them.”

A Mission That Builds More Than Careers

This year’s gala aims to raise $500,000 to expand WFW’s programs and open a cutting-edge 25,000-square-foot training facility in Barrio Logan. This expansion will provide opportunities for over 360 veterans annually, directly addressing the workforce shortage in U.S. manufacturing.

Funds raised will also support critical wraparound services, including housing assistance, food security, resume building, interview coaching, and access to professional attire—ensuring that every graduate steps into their new career with confidence and dignity.

Be Part of the Movement

The 2025 Forging Futures Gala is more than an event—it’s a chance to be part of a lasting legacy. Individual tickets start at $350, with sponsorship opportunities available for those who wish to amplify their impact.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025

• Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Location: USS Midway Museum, 910 N Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101

• Tickets: Available here

• Additional Information: Contact gala@wfw.org or (619) 550-1620

A Night to Honor, Celebrate, and Give Back

As the lights of the city twinkle on the horizon, each guest at the gala will play a pivotal role in shaping the future for America’s veterans. Every ticket purchased, every bid placed, and every donation made brings WFW closer to equipping more veterans with the skills they need to succeed.

Join us for an extraordinary evening of gratitude, giving, and growth. Together, we can honor service, empower futures, and forge a new path for those who have given so much for our country.

For more information on Workshops for Warriors and how you can support their mission, visit wfw.org.

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