Congratulations to Navy Veteran Dan Bergman — Taking Flight Toward a New Future!
We are proud to celebrate Navy Veteran Dan Bergman, who has officially launched his aviation maintenance career with Thornton Aviation in Van Nuys, California — a major milestone achieved through the support and guidance of our WIN program. Dan’s journey represents the heart of what we stand for: helping veterans take the next step with confidence, purpose, and pride.
From Service to Civilian Success
After years of service in the United States Navy, Dan faced a challenge familiar to many veterans — translating his discipline, technical skill, and mission-driven mindset into a meaningful civilian career. The military equips our warriors with incredible experience, but the transition home often comes without the roadmap or resources needed to put those skills to work in the private sector. That’s where WIN steps in.
When Dan connected with our WIN program, he made it clear that aviation wasn’t just a job for him — it was a calling. His passion for aircraft maintenance and his meticulous attention to detail made him a natural fit for the field, but what he needed was access, equipment, and support to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity. Together, we built that bridge.
The Tools That Build Confidence and Careers
In December, we had the honor of presenting Dan with a brand-new set of Snap-On tools — the gold standard in aviation maintenance. These aren’t just tools; they’re symbols of empowerment and readiness. Each wrench, socket, and gauge represents a tangible investment in Dan’s future — a reminder that his service still matters, and that we believe in his ability to build something extraordinary beyond the uniform.
For many veterans, small barriers like the cost of professional-grade equipment can stand in the way of launching a new career. By eliminating those barriers, WIN ensures that our veterans can step onto the job site equipped not just for success, but for excellence. When Dan walked into Thornton Aviation for his first day, he did so fully prepared, fully supported, and fully capable of performing at the highest standard.
A Veteran’s Mindset: Precision, Discipline, and Pride
Dan’s transition embodies the values that make our veterans exceptional in every workplace — dedication, adaptability, teamwork, and precision under pressure. In the hangar, just as on the flight deck, success depends on trust, attention to detail, and integrity — qualities Dan has carried with him since his Navy days. His story is proof that the mindset of service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off; it simply finds new ways to shine.
WIN’s Mission in Action
At WIN, our mission is simple but powerful: to provide veterans with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities needed to thrive after service. Whether it’s through career placement, mental health support, or empowerment events like our annual Track Day, every initiative we lead is designed to remind veterans that they are not alone — that their community stands with them, ready to lift them higher.
Dan’s success story is one of many we’re proud to share, but it’s also a call to action. Every veteran deserves the same opportunity to translate their hard-earned skills into meaningful work. With continued support from our donors, mentors, and partners, we can make sure that happens — one veteran, one career, one success at a time.
Gratitude and Forward Motion
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make this milestone possible — from the dedicated mentors who guided Dan through his transition, to the supporters whose generosity fuels our programs, and to the team at Thornton Aviation for recognizing the value and potential veterans bring to the workforce.
Dan, we couldn’t be prouder. Your drive, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence reflect everything that makes our veteran community extraordinary. You’ve taken flight in more ways than one — and your journey inspires others to believe that their next mission can be just as meaningful as their last.
Here’s to you, Dan Bergman — and to every veteran chasing new horizons with courage, purpose, and heart. The sky’s not the limit — it’s home.
Thank you to all of our sponsors for their continued support of WIN.
