Conference Colleague Spotlight: Juan Gonzalez

Meet Master Sergeant Juan Gonzalez, a first-time NatCon25 attendee and veteran navigator for Integrated Services of Kalamazoo (ISK), a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Gonzalez retired from the U.S. Air Force after 27 years of honorable service. Today, he dedicates his career to helping military service members, veterans and their families access critical mental health and substance use services.

Thank you for your service! What is your role at ISK?

“I connect veterans with housing, health care, employment, education, mental health support, jail diversion programs and other vital resources at the local and state levels. I’ve been fortunate to serve on two incredible teams — first in the military and now at ISK. The teamwork, discipline and resilience I developed in service carry over to my work today. At ISK, I feel heard, supported and empowered to do my best. The highest compliment I can give my team? I’d go to battle with them — anytime, anyplace, anywhere.”

How has your military service shaped the work you do today?

“Mental health and substance use challenges have always existed in the military, but I didn’t fully understand their impact until I transitioned out. When I enlisted, talking about these struggles was taboo — it wasn’t part of the ‘mission.’ While there’s been progress, stigma still lingers. My work today keeps me connected to my military roots. I’m grateful for the unbreakable bond with my fellow service members and veterans, who will always be family. That connection fuels my passion for helping them access the support and resources they need to build better lives.”

What exciting project(s) are you currently working on?

“I’m focused on the Keystone Veteran Transitional House (KVTH), a 12-bed shelter for veterans —regardless of discharge status — that opened in 2020. KVTH helps residents connect with housing resources, including the Battle Creek VA. With support from our local Lowe’s, we built a therapeutic food garden for veterans, and we’re gearing up for planting season around Memorial Day weekend. Research shows that gardening has significant mental health benefits, especially for those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Thanks to strong community support, this event has evolved into a veteran celebration, complete with a cookout and live music.”

What are you hoping to learn at NatCon25?

“Everything! This is my first NatCon, and I’m here to soak up as much knowledge as possible to better serve others. I’ve been a Mental Health First Aid Instructor since 2019 and was given the opportunity to attend this year. I’m eager to learn from experts; connect with fellow service members, veterans, families and caregivers; and bring back valuable insights to enhance my work as a veteran navigator.”

How do you take care of your own mental wellbeing?

“It starts at home with a strong, supportive wife who keeps me grounded. My ISK team also provides an incredible support system, helping me serve the military and veteran community at my best. For self-care, I’m training for three half-marathons this year and aiming to read one book a month — so far, I’m ahead of schedule! But nothing compares to being ‘BoBo’ to my grandson and granddaughter. Hearing that name from my four-year-old grandson instantly melts away stress.”

Join Master Sgt. Gonzalez and thousands of other health care professionals at NatCon25! Register by April 22 to save $100 off the price of admission. Questions? Contact us.