Meet Charlie "Bear" Quick, our resident Golden Retriever and the undisputed heart of the Forged By Valor shop! While he decided the strict lifestyle of a formal service dog wasn't quite his calling, Charlie excels at his true passion: being the ultimate shop companion and a professional day-brightener.

Welding requires intense focus, and transitioning back to civilian or student life can bring its own stress. That’s where Charlie comes in. His presence alone provides invaluable, low-pressure support to our students and Veterans. Whether you need a quick mental break from the welding booth or are just dealing with everyday anxiety, spending a few minutes with Charlie is a proven way to lower stress, reset your focus, and bring a sense of calm to the shop environment.

Charlie’s positive energy and eagerness to please are contagious. Our students already look forward to seeing him during breaks and informal gatherings, finding comfort and plenty of laughs in his relaxed, friendly attitude. He may not be wearing a formal service vest, but he’s already making a massive difference exactly as he is.

So next time you visit the Forged by Valor shop, be sure to give Charlie a friendly pat! He’s always on duty to meet new people, offer a furry paw of support, and remind everyone to take a deep breath.