RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
After spending years serving in the military, transition into the civilian workforce can be challenging.
Luckily, Randolph members seeking retirement or separation have the Transition Assistance Program to help them through the process.
"Transition into the civilian sector isn't easy," said Vicki Beaudoin, TAP community readiness consultant. "You have to be prepared and it's our job to prepare you."
Those approaching retirement from the Air Force by 24 months or separation by 12 months are automatically enrolled in TAP, but Ms. Beaudoin and Ray Ramos, also a TAP community readiness consultant, will work with anyone who may benefit from their services, including military spouses.
"We have so many valuable services for people to take advantage of from interviewing, resume writing and salary negotiation classes to a resource center where they can create a resume and research and apply for jobs," said Mr. Ramos. "It's all just a matter of people coming out to our facility and using these services."
Mr. Ramos and Ms. Beaudoin also conduct one-on-one counseling sessions where they discuss the opportunities and entitlements military members and their families have prior to their departing the military.
"The worst thing is to get out of the military and not have had any help along the way," said Mr. Ramos. "Trial and error can be very costly. That's why it's so important that they sit down with us."
Ms. Beaudoin said their customers always end the session with a better understanding of the transition ahead and what they need to do.
"Often times we end up telling them about services or benefits they didn't even know existed," said Ms. Beaudoin.
After each counseling session, customers are given a personal tour of the Airman and Family Readiness Flight resource room, which includes three computer consoles where they can research job openings, create a resume and apply for positions. The room also includes a resource library and bulletin boards which are regularly updated with job listings and other helpful information.
Customers are also shown the Kiosk in the main room of the A&FRF, an automated system that lets customers view, print and e-mail job descriptions and apply for jobs, courtesy of the San Antonio Express News.
"The Kiosk is very user friendly and the touch screen walks users through the process," said Mr. Ramos. "An application can be completed in less than four minutes and employment opportunities are updated daily."
"There is also no registration or resume required," he said. "Profiles are faxed or e-mailed nightly from each terminal directly to the employer by the Express-News."
In addition to the facility tour, those approaching retirement or separation are enrolled into a three-day transition assistance seminar that covers personal appraisal, career exploration, assessing financial needs, the job search, resume writing, preparing and conducting interviews and veteran benefits.
"This seminar provides some great insight into the transition ahead and what they need to do to be prepared and make it a success," said Mr. Ramos.
The A&FRF offers additional classes to help those seeking employment in the civilian sector on a monthly basis including resume writing, interviewing skills, networking/salary negotiation and how to start your own business.
With about 8-10 customers coming through their doors each day, Mr. Ramos and Ms. Beaudoin keep a busy schedule, but said they are always willing to help anyone who requests it. Those interested can schedule an appointment by calling 652-5321.
"We want our customers to feel comfortable and know that they're getting the most recent and accurate information," said Mr. Ramos. "We are here to help."