A Passion for Firearms and a Path to Success
Working with firearms has always been a passion for Richard Calvette, a 2024 SDI graduate of the Associate of Science in Firearms Technology program. Still, he wasn’t sure how to elevate his career to the next level—until he discovered Sonoran Desert Institute. You can meet Richard and hear his full story in this interview on YouTube:
Finding SDI: A Perfect Fit for a Busy Professional
While working full-time at Urban Carry Holsters, Richard came across SDI at a trade show. At first, he wasn’t sure what SDI offered, but after reading a bit more, it clicked—he could enroll in an online gunsmithing program while keeping his job. The flexibility of SDI’s online programs made it possible for him to pursue his education on his own time without sacrificing his career or personal life.
“I was working in the industry full-time, and the idea of going to school seemed impossible. SDI made it work. I could take courses when it fit my schedule and still keep up with work and family,” Richard shared.
Stepping Back into School—And Thriving
After years away from a classroom setting, Richard was initially hesitant about returning to school. However, SDI’s Success Coaches and support system made the transition smooth. From navigating the GI Bill® process to staying on track with coursework, Richard found the guidance he needed to succeed.
Within one month of first talking to SDI, he was fully enrolled and ready to start learning.
Hands-On Learning That Made an Impact
Richard expected to learn firearms repair, customization, and machining, but he was surprised by how much he enjoyed other aspects of the program—particularly courses focused on the business side of the firearms industry.
“The Shooting Sports Management course really stood out to me,” Richard explained. “I thought I’d only be interested in the hands-on gunsmithing work, but I ended up learning a lot about how the industry operates behind the scenes. That’s knowledge I use every day now.”
Among his favorite hands-on labs he completed at home was hydro dipping, a process that added a new creative element to his skillset. And of course, any course that involved working directly with firearms was a highlight.
Applying New Skills in the Industry
Since graduating from SDI, Richard has been able to put his education to use at Urban Carry Holsters. While SDI does not guarantee job placement, advancement, or continued employment, Richard found that the knowledge and hands-on experience he gained helped him contribute more to his company. From refining holster designs to considering elements like trigger guard width, mag release placement, and sight configurations, he found himself applying what he had learned in meaningful ways.
“I wasn’t just another employee anymore. I had new skills that made me more valuable to the company. I was designing and refining holsters, taking things like trigger guard width, mag release placement, sight configurations, and retention design into account in ways I hadn’t before.”
His deeper understanding of firearms mechanics helped him fine-tune holster designs, ensuring they were comfortable, functional, and safe. Beyond that, SDI helped him build connections in the industry, opening doors to job opportunities and networking that may not have been available otherwise.
Advice for Future Students
For anyone considering SDI, Richard’s advice as a graduate is simple: Make the call.
“If you’re thinking about it, just reach out. The team at SDI makes it easy to understand your options and get started. SDI’s online gunsmithing degree program was the right choice for me because it included the gunsmithing work I wanted but also so much more that I didn’t realize would be valuable.”
Richard’s journey is a testament to how passion, education, and opportunity can come together to create a successful career in the firearms industry. Whether you’re looking to break into the field or advance your existing career, SDI provides the tools to make it happen.
Learn More at SDI
We proudly call Richard an SDI graduate and are excited to see where life leads him next! To read more stories like Richard’s, click here.
To start your educational journey with SDI and for more information, please go to https://sdi.edu/request-info/ or call us at 480-999-4767.
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