Transition-e-news Volume 2  Issue 32   

Transition Insight

"Don't simply retire from something; have something to retire to."
 - Harry Emerson Fosdick

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By Army Staff Sgt. Michael J. Carden
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Feb. 23, 2009 – Two years is much too long to determine service disabilities, especially when the injuries obviously qualify a servicemember for full benefits and compensation, a senior Defense Department official said here today. Learn More
 

Barbara Adams, CPRW, CEIP, CMRC, CFRW
www.militaryresumewriters.com and www.careerproplus.com

With some regions of the U.S. experiencing double-digit unemployment rates, many of our clients are wondering how long their job search will last. Searching for employment, however, reaches far beyond perusing job boards on the Internet, uploading your resume, and clicking the "Apply" button. It takes preparation that will affect your success in not only finding employment opportunities, but also in securing and preparing for an interview. Below you will find a list of the top five areas in which you must be prepared for your job-search success.

Can you answer "yes" that you are well-prepared in each of the following five areas?

1. Networking: Are you willing and able to spend at least 70% of your job-search time in person-to-person networking with hiring managers and individuals influential to the hiring process? During those meetings, are you focusing on how to bring value to the relationship versus simply asking for job leads?

2. Resume: Are you sending individualized resumes that are tailored to the opportunity or job posting? Further, are you following up every single resume submission with a personal contact, either via a direct phone call or networking contact recommending you to the hiring manager?

3. Branded Value Proposition: Do you have a clear, compelling brand that differentiates you from the other job seekers who will be applying for your target jobs and can you clearly describe to employers how your skills can bring bottom-line value to their organization?

4. Follow-Up: Are you following up with contacts at appropriate intervals and following through on verbal commitments? (e.g., If you said you would send a resume to a networking contact, have you done so in a timely manner; or, if a hiring manager asked you to check back in a week, have you followed through?)

5. Interviewing Skills: Do you interview well? (e.g., Can you articulately and persuasively demonstrate to employers your core skills relevant to the position and show them, on the spot, how you can help the employer make money, save money, or solve problems that are of immediate concern to them?)

Barbara Adams, President & CEO of CareerPro Global, the parent company of www.careerproplus.com and www.militaryresumewriters.com has been a member of the careers community for the past 17 years. Ms. Adams holds four prestigious industry certifications and is the author of the Certified Military Resume Writer credential. Barbara's team of Certified Professional Military and Federal Writers assist thousands of veterans applying for and gaining federal and corporate employment each year. Questions may be emailed to service@careerproplus.com.

All Copyrights Reserved 2009
 

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By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 3, 2009 – Recognizing the likelihood of defense budget cuts, senior defense and military leaders urged Congress today to protect incentives they call critical to recruiting and retention.
Curtis Gilroy, the Pentagon's accessions policy director, emphasized the importance of bonuses and other enticements that help to attract qualified candidates from the 25 percent of the recruitment-age population that qualifies for military service.

As the Defense Department and military services look for ways to pare recruiting and retention programs, Gilroy urged the House Armed Services Committee's military personnel subcommittee to resist wholesale cuts that would have a negative long-term impact.

Gilroy conceded that the bleak labor market and flailing economy are likely to help the military fill its ranks with quality recruits. "As the economy continues to dip and unemployment rises, recruiting should be somewhat less difficult. We know this," he said. "But the economy is not the only driver of our recruiting and retention programs. We have other significant challenges that are facing us today."

Adult influencers are less likely to recommend military service to young people than four, three, or even two years ago. The propensity of young people to join the military has dropped. Meanwhile, there's been a declining pool of eligible, qualified young people who want to serve.

Gilroy pointed to shortcomings he said disqualify about three-quarters of all recruitment-age youth: obesity and other health problems, physical fitness deficiencies and lack of a high school diploma or equivalent, among them.

"We have a crisis in this country," he said. "When we add up all these disqualifiers, we find that only 25 percent of our young people today ages 17 to 24 are qualified for military service."

Lt. Gen. Ronald S. Coleman, deputy Marine Corps commandant for manpower and reserve affairs, joined Gilroy in emphasizing the importance of incentives that help the military recruit from this select group. Coleman called these incentives key to the Corps' success in growing its end strength to 202,000 Marines by the year's end, two years ahead of schedule. "Enlistment incentives make these achievements possible," he said.

Likewise, he called the Marines' selective re-enlistment bonus program "the foundation of our retention efforts." Coleman noted that 36 percent of first-time Marines re-enlisted in fiscal 2008, up from the previous year's historical high of 31 percent.

"Increased funding and flexibility authorities that you provided are essential to the strength that your Marine Corps enjoys today," he told the subcommittee members. "We will continue to rely on them as we grow and maintain [the Marine Corps end strength of 202,000] and work to shape the Marine Corps for the 21st century."

Army Lt. Gen. Michael D. Rochelle, the Army's deputy chief of staff for personnel, agreed that recruiting and retention incentives have helped the Army fill its ranks with quality soldiers despite the longest period of conflict in U.S. history.

"As a result, for the past two years, we met or exceeded our recruiting and retention goals for the total Army," he said.

But Rochelle said those successes can't be taken for granted. "The eligible population to serve in the armed forces has declined, and we must continue to work hard to attract and retain the very best," he said.

Gilroy urged the subcommittee to avoid a repeat of the late 1970s, mid-1980s and late 1990s. When the economy weakened and recruiting and retention became less challenging, recruiting budgets got axed, with long-term consequences.

"These lessons from the past showed us it is easy and quick to cut budgets during times when recruiting and retention are successful," he said. "But we also learned from those lessons of the past how difficult and how time-consuming and how expensive it is when we need to ramp up when recruiting and retention failed as a result of those budget cuts."
 

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By Sharon Foster/American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 3, 2009 - Troops serving overseas will get a little bit of "Christmas in May," thanks to a troop-support group that is collecting gifts and snacks to be mailed to them on Armed Forces Day, May 16.

"This is a way to thank the troops on their special day," Julieann Najar, founder of "A Soldier's Wish List," said. "There are those who seem to 'fall between the cracks' and are in combat zones in between the holidays and do not receive our December Christmas packages. We want to let these men and women know they are also important and not forgotten."

Najar's goal for the "Christmas in May" campaign is to send 2,000 gifts that will be wrapped in Christmas paper and bows to troops deployed in Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Kosovo, South Korea, Qatar, Africa, Italy and Japan.

"Having a son who was wounded in Iraq, and knowing how important it was to get items he missed from home to him, makes it even more important to continue to do the same for all of our 'adopted sons and daughters,'" Najar said.

DVDs, CDs, drink mix packets, beef jerky and snack sausages, candy, magazines, twin sheet sets and white socks are just a few of the gifts A Soldier's Wish List volunteers have started and will continue to collect for the troops. The group plans to have a huge wrapping and mailing party May 16 in St. Louis.

The group will use donated gift certificates to purchase special-request items in individual servicemembers' names, Najar said. "In the past, through our December Christmas mailing, we have sent microwaves and other special-request items," she added. "As we are about wishes, we have the troops that we have adopted tell us what [they miss] from home, and we try to provide it."

A Soldier's Wish List sends care packages throughout the year to troops serving overseas. The group conducts fundraisers, sells merchandise and collects donations to finance its efforts. The group also has adopted troops and matched civilians wanting to adopt with other troops. To date, A Soldier's Wish List has had more than 60,000 troops sign up for adoption and has lined up more than 30,000 adopters.

"Our group's goal is to fulfill the wishes of our troops to the best of our abilities," Najar said. "This is our small way of letting our brave troops know that we care about them and appreciate their sacrifices."
    

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By Army Staff Sgt. Michael J. Carden
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Feb. 23, 2009 – Two years is much too long to determine service disabilities, especially when the injuries obviously qualify a servicemember for full benefits and compensation, a senior Defense Department official said here today.

Until recently, that's how long it took all military members to reach 100-percent-disabled status in terms of their disability compensation and medical benefits through the departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs. Regardless of the severity of the injuries, all went through multiple medical evaluations and screenings first with the military, only to go through the same process again with VA, Air Force Maj. Gen. Keith W. Meurlin, acting director of the Defense Department's transition policy and care coordination office, explained.

Often, it can take up to two years to complete the evaluations and another nine months to start receiving benefits, Meurlin added.

"Why put [seriously injured combat veterans] through a two-year process when you basically know the outcome -- that they're going to be 100-percent disabled?" Meurlin said. "And why wait two years to get their VA benefits to them?"

Now, veterans seriously wounded in combat and identified as "catastrophically wounded" go through an expedited disability evaluation process that lasts about 100 days to begin receiving benefits. If veterans are recognized as fitting into that category, they will forego the redundancy of separate Defense and VA medical evaluations and go through the VA process only, the general said.

"We've taken a two-year process and reduced it to three months," he said. "We think it's a lot better for the individual and their family to make it shorter when you understand what the conclusion to the process is anyway."

The expedited process applies to servicemembers whose conditions are designated catastrophic and whose injuries were incurred in the line of duty as a direct result of armed conflict, Meurlin explained. A catastrophic injury or illness is a permanent, severely disabling injury, disorder, or disease to such a degree that a servicemember or veteran requires personal or mechanical assistance to leave home or bed, or requires constant supervision to avoid physical harm to themselves or others.

"We are talking about somebody who has been so badly injured that they cannot take care of [themselves] in daily life operations," he said. "The injury has to be combat-related, and it is a condition that makes the activities of daily life almost impossible for him."

Eventually, all servicemembers transitioning to veteran status may benefit from the changes the expedited disability evaluation system offers. The current system may be completely reformed to a one-year process by cutting out the military evaluation altogether, much like the expedient version. The pilot program for such a process is under way, but no decisions have been made yet, Meurlin said.

"The whole disability system is going through a number of reviews right now," he said. "Within our ability, we're taking the disability system, shrinking it down and making it more efficient."

Today's disability system is really a product of World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam War, and is well overdue for an update, Meurlin said. The current system doesn't fit well with the injuries military members suffer and the high survival rate they've endured during today's wars, he added.

"I think we're recognizing in this war, with the body armor and the improved vehicles, that we're having a whole different kind of injury," Meurlin said, noting the significance post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries are having on troops. "We're getting a new type of injury and survival rate. We're bringing a lot of people home today that before we would've lost on the battlefield [in earlier wars].

"It's important to get them the right set of benefits as early as we can and deliver them expeditiously and as fairly as we can," he added.
        

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Camp Lejeune Job Fair - April 02, 2009
 
Joint Navy & Air Force Job Fair Charleston, SC - April 09, 2009
 
MOAA Career Fair Washington, DC - April 28, 2009
 
MOAA Career Fair Washington, DC - September 15, 2009

Click here for a complete listing of
Military Job Fairs
   

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Northrop Grumman
What does it mean to work at Northrop Grumman? It means becoming an important part of an extraordinary company. Northrop Grumman is the world's largest shipbuilder, a leading systems integrator, a pioneer in space systems, and the U.S. government's largest provider of information technology. We are a company committed to the highest standards of business conduct and technical excellence in each of our distinct segments of business. These segments of business are also known as operating sectors: electronic systems, information technology, integrated systems, mission systems, Newport News, ship systems and space technology. Please click here.
U.S. Citizenship is required for most positions. EOE M/F/D/V,
 

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EG&G Technical Services, Inc.
Do the Best Work of Your Life! URS is the top Engineering and one of the top Defense firms in the United States!

EG&G Technical Services, Inc. and Lear Siegler Services, Inc.(both divisions of URS) consolidated to become one of the nation's leading U.S. federal government contractors providing operations and maintenance, systems engineering and technical assistance, and program management, primarily to the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security.

We are currently looking for Engineers, Logistics Analyst, Technicians, Aircraft Mechanics, Program Managers, Acquisition Analyst and more! We have opportunities in the US as well as overseas!

If you want to join a team of dedicated professionals who are among the best in their field, in a diverse work environment that fosters integrity and trust, then take some time to explore URS Corporation career possibilities. To learn more about URS Corporation, please visit our Web site at www.urscorp.com.
 

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FirstEnergy
Serve your community as a FirstEnergy employee the same way you served your country. FirstEnergy, a diversified energy company, has opportunities within our Energy Delivery, Fossil and Nuclear Power Generation, and Corporate Services organizations that are ideal for many levels of skill and expertise acquired during military service. These include all engineering disciplines, Navy Nuclear, Naval Electricians and Machinists Mates, Logistics, Technicians, and many other enlisted experiences. For example, Navy Nuclear or Naval Electricians Mates offer great transferable skills for electric distribution dispatchers, fossil and nuclear generating plant operators. Please visit our website www.firstenergycorp.com for a list of opportunities in areas such as Plant, Substation, overhead/underground line and more. FirstEnergy provides competitive pay plus incentive compensation; a Company-sponsored pension plan; 401k savings plan with company match and performance bonuses; a choice of medical, prescription, dental, vision, and life insurance programs; and educational assistance programs. We also provide employees called to active duty with 540 days (approximately 18 months) of differential pay and health coverage to support you as you serve our nation. Join a company that emphasizes volunteerism, professionalism, and team work - and rewards the skills and discipline you developed in the service. Click here for more information.
 

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L-3 IS Joint Operations Group
L-3 IS Joint Operations Group is the most capable and dependable aircraft modernization and mission systems integration company in the world. We are recognized internationally as a systems integration organization specializing in the study, design, development, and integration of mission systems, plus the modernization and maintenance of aircraft. We have modified more than 15,000 aircraft of more than 125 types, and more than three aircraft per year using our Quick Response Capability, and L-3 IS has delivered integrated real-time reconnaissance systems that contain more than 2 million lines of code. To see our opportunities click here!
 

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SAIC
Own Your Future
SAIC has worked with the Department of Defense since our inception over 35 years ago. That is how we know what disciplined, mission-focused leaders can accomplish. As an employee, you'll find the same dedication and commitment to accomplishing goals at SAIC that you found in the military. Take ownership of your future! As an employee- owner, you'll have the opportunity to achieve success within an environment that understands the needs of servicemen and servicewomen who are separating from the military. SAIC offers a competitive salary and benefits package. For immediate consideration, apply online by clicking here. Please let us know that you heard about SAIC from TAOnline.com when submitting your resume.
  

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Raytheon
Software Engineering / Systems Engineering
Challenge yourself, develop your skills AND relax your life.
Raytheon is recognized as a company that provides you with an ideal work/life balance. What better place to manage your career and your personal interest than State College, Pa. Ranked as one of the least stressful cities in America, with four seasons of outdoor activities, State College is the perfect place to pursue your goals.

Software Engineers
We seek experienced software engineers looking for a challenging career using today's leading edge technologies. Perform full life cycle software development of data exploitation/dissemination and real-time signal collection/processing systems. Senior engineers support proposal activities, define architectures and lead software development tasks. Junior-level engineers support design, code and test of software requirements.

Systems Engineers
Define architectures and requirements for leading edge systems, provide technical leadership in new business development and proposals and integrate sophisticated technologies and products. Use your knowledge of systems engineering processes and methodologies, including object oriented as well as conventional systems design .techniques to solve complex technical .problems. Provide leadership in a wide range of technologies.

Learn more by clicking here!
  

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Oracle Corporation
Excel with Excellence.
At Oracle, we're no strangers to pushing our limits. We've been first in class in an array of industry leading enterprise solutions, including being the first software company to develop and deploy 100 percent internet-enabled enterprise software across our entire product line. In fact, pushing the limits of our innovative solutions is an every day goal. Here, you'll be challenged by the excitement of creating leading-edge technologies and applications while enjoying the support and stability of and established leader.

To learn more about Oracle Corporation please visit: http://www.oracle.com/careers
 

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Install Success On The Job.
As a MasTec Satellite Technician, your day begins with a list of customers, the keys to a company-owned truck and unlimited potential. With a mix of new installations, customer support visits, add-on sales opportunities and technical service appointments, you'll experience a variety of challenges that makes each day different.

The installation and servicing of a satellite system can be physically demanding. Also, providing excellent service to every customer is a critical responsibility. But at MasTec, we reward hard work. From your earning potential to your career growth, every job you complete is your chance to install success into your life.

Install A Secure Future.
MasTec Advanced Technologies is one of the largest DirecTV installation and service companies. With millions of people turning to DirecTV for their television needs, MasTec Advanced Technologies offers unlimited potential to the right professional.

For more information on MasTec, or additional MasTec careers, click here.
 

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Be a part of a mission that's larger than all of us. The CIA's National Clandestine Service seeks qualified applicants to serve our country's mission abroad. Our careers offer rewarding, fast-paced, and high impact challenges in intelligence collection on issues of critical importance to US national security. Applicants should possess a high degree of personal integrity, professional backgrounds. Do you want to make a difference for your country? Are you ready for a challenge?

All applicants for National Clandestine Service positions must successfully undergo several personal interviews, medical and psychological exams, aptitude testing, a polygraph interview, and a background investigation. Following entry on duty, candidates will undergo extensive training. US citizenship required. An equal opportunity employer and a drug-free work force.

For more information and to apply, visit: www.cia.gov
 

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For more information, click here.
 

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Paperless Benefits Delivery at Discharge
VA's Benefits Delivery at Discharge - "BDD" - program has gone paperless. The program, which allows service members to apply for disability compensation benefits from VA before retiring or separating, has a goal of providing benefits within 60 days after release or discharge from active duty. For that to happen, it is important that service members apply at least 60 days before separation. Electronic images are made of medical records and other supporting information, allowing claims to be decided in a paperless environment.
  

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