Sparks flying and the rhythm of a sledgehammer pounding are helping a Pharr U.S. Army veteran live out her dream.

Naomi Rios, 56, is proving that it’s never too late to follow your dreams. She’s currently a student at South Texas College’s welding program in McAllen, and is set to graduate in December.

Rios said she’s wanted to be a welder since she was in high school, but she never got the opportunity to pursue that dream.

“They said, ‘you don't need those classes. You need to learn how to cook,’” Rio said.

Rios left her welding dream behind and eventually joined the U.S. Army.

While stationed overseas with her husband, she took her shot at welding again and even made it to the front page of a military newspaper.

After returning to the U.S., Rios’ dream was set aside again to take care of family needs.

Now, she's able to focus on herself and pick up her welding torch once again.

“I wanted something new. I saw a pamphlet and I saw an advertisement on the STC page… and I said ‘I think I should take classes again,’” Rios said.

Rios said her experience is proving it’s never too late to reignite your passion, no matter your age.

“All you have to do is get your butt off the couch and make it an initiative to go back to school, start researching, and take a tour of your favorite school,” Rios said.

Watch the video above for the full story.