From Service to Success: Marine Corps Vet Turns an Unforeseen Layoff Into a New Opportunity

Retired US Marine Corps veteran Jesus Vargas was working in the logistics field as a warehouse manager for over 25 years. Unfortunately, in 2024 he was unexpectedly laid off and found himself at a crossroads.

Unable to find a warehouse logistics position on his own, Vargas sought help at his local America’s Job Center of California. He was referred to Disabled Veterans Outreach Program specialists Noe Reyes and Steven Segobiano, both with the Employment Development Department (EDD), who helped get Vargas back on his feet.

The team helped Vargas utilize online job search engines designed and tailored specifically to veteran job seekers, such as ONET Online and Military.com. They also provided guidance in highlighting relevant skills on his resume along with veteran community resources to assist with disability benefits.

“I’ve noticed a trend where job seekers are not expecting to experience unemployment for periods longer than a couple of months,” Reyes said. “But the reality is that the job market has gotten much more competitive to the point where a job seeker can be unemployed for more than double the amount of time they’ve expected. For that reason, I work to ensure that my clients, like Mr. Vargas, are aware of every resource that’s available at their disposal.”

With guidance from the EDD team, Vargas was able to find a job as a senior warehouse manager for wellness beverage company Suja Life.

“Noe and Steven did not give up on me — they emailed and texted me, brought me in, gave me advice, and reviewed my resume countless times for different positions. And when I thought I was taking a step down in my career, helped me land a job that took me to the next level and a step further in my career,” Vargas said.

“I am now the senior warehouse manager for Suja Life. Thank you all for the support,” added Vargas, “I am loving it. Here I am back in my world and feel right at home. I am able to use all my experience and skills to accomplish the day-to-day and long-term goals.”

With renewed confidence, Vargas is embracing the future and excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.