Congratulations to New Guide Dog Mobility Instructor Robert Cortez

Allow us to introduce you to Guide Dogs for the Blind's newest qualified guide dog mobility instructor (GDMI), Robert "Bobby" Cortez. Bobby completed GDB's GDMI apprenticeship that includes hands-on skills and an accompanying course of academic studies, and we're so proud of his accomplishment.

Bobby is originally from Oxnard, Calif. and knew that his love for animals and helping people would somehow inform his career in a way he could combine the two. After enrolling in the Navy and serving a tour in Afghanistan, he earned an associate's degree in exotic animal training and management from Moorpark College, and a bachelor's degree in psychology from Southern New Hampshire University. He completed two internships as a marine mammal trainer in San Diego before joining the team at Guide Dogs for the Blind. He continues to serve in the Navy Reserves as a Senior Chief.

"I had a friend from college who had always told me that she loved GDB and she knew I would love it. She was right!" Bobby said. "The best part of my job is seeing a dog I trained get matched with a client."

He and his husband, Josh Robinson, share their home with six pets: a black Lab, Raffi; a Dachshund, Cannoli; three Himalayan cats, Yuna, Tidus, and Jetch; and a rainbow Boa, Orion. He enjoys watching movies, going out to eat, playing games, and wine tasting in his spare time.

Congratulations Bobby!