From Custodial Work to Maintenance Mechanic: Gabriel Gomez’s Journey at Argonne National Laboratory

At the prestigious Argonne National Laboratory, a remarkable transformation is taking place for young talent Gabriel Gomez. Starting out in the custodial group at the U.S. Department of Energy‘s facility, Gomez’s path has been nothing short of inspiring.

Having earned an associate degree in management and supervision from Joliet Junior College, Gomez found his calling at Argonne, where he initially cleaned labs, offices, and bathrooms. However, it was his move to the Utility Systems Water department that set his journey into motion.

Transitioning to providing custodial services for the water treatment buildings, Gomez found himself immersed in a world of possibilities. The interactions with staff, engineers, and managers sparked a newfound interest in maintenance and equipment, propelling him towards a unique career trajectory.

Enrolling in the Maintenance Mechanic Trainee (MMT) program at Argonne in 2020, Gomez delved into a realm of learning that was previously unknown to him. Working in various departments, including Water and Calibration and Instrumentation, he embraced the challenges and opportunities that came his way.

Completing the MMT program with flying colors, Gomez now stands tall as a Maintenance Mechanic Level 1, a testament to his dedication and perseverance. Looking ahead, he plans to further enhance his skills by pursuing a certification in process control and instrumentation technology at Joliet Junior College.

Reflecting on his journey, Gomez expressed gratitude for the learning experience and the chance to expand his horizons. Utility Systems Manager Josh Koons commended Gomez’s passion for learning, emphasizing the potential for others at Argonne to follow a similar path.