Tom Carlos

. "I was born and raised in San Jose, California, the son of migrant farm workers who settled in the Santa Clara Valley, an agricultural region that later became known as Silicon Valley. During my teenage years, I spent school breaks sorting and picking fruit at local orchards. At 18, I joined the U.S. Navy Seabees, serving honorably for 4 years before being discharged with a service-related disability. Following my discharge, I enrolled in the O.I.C. (Opportunities Industrialization Center) program, where I received formal training as an electro-mechanical design draftsman. Subsequently, I embarked on a career spanning 45 years, offering manufacturing, engineering, and graphic design services to various high-tech companies. Throughout my professional journey, I worked during the day and attended evening classes for a decade. Upon retirement, I transitioned into a full-time artist, embracing my passion for creativity and artistic expression."