Maria, a second-generation migrant worker from Northern California, embarked on a remarkable journey to entrepreneurship. Her story is one of perseverance, resilience, and the courage to seek support when needed.

Her path began in the Navy, where she excelled as an Aviation Electronics Technician. The military strengthened her technical expertise, discipline, and commitment—qualities that later proved invaluable. After her service, she pursued higher education and gained experience in government contracting. Her husband, Gerry, a fellow Navy veteran, brought his leadership and training expertise to their shared vision.

Together, Maria and Gerry founded A&G Professional Services. They started small, securing their first $800 contract in the form of a work order. Despite challenges, their dedication and skills helped them build a thriving business, transforming their aspirations into reality.

Maria found inspiration in her success with other companies and a mentor who pushed her to achieve more. She started in HR at her last job. Then, she created a contracts department. In just two years, she secured over $6 million in contracts. This success boosted her confidence. She then started her own business, offering the same dedication and commitment to her clients. Maria saw that she could do well on her own through quarterly site visits and strong ties with government customers.

Her experience with APEX was instrumental in her journey. To ensure her 8(a) application process was smoother than her WOSB application, Maria sought assistance from Tanya Counts. Tanya reviewed her application and statements, providing valuable feedback. As a result, the authorities approved Maria’s 8(a) certification.

The path to obtaining 8(a) certification was not easy. Maria had to gather extensive documentation, navigate complex federal systems, and write a compelling social disadvantage statement, detailing her experiences with bias and discrimination. Seeking support from APEX Accelerator proved invaluable in overcoming these obstacles.

Maria’s story is a testament to persistence and the impact of seeking guidance. Her journey from Navy technician to successful business owner is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs facing their own challenges.