(MOAA's Premium and Life member enjoy career consultation, resume critique, interview prep, job alerts, publications and financial and benefits counseling. To learn about becoming a member of MOAA, visit here.)
The Army is ramping up its efforts to help soldiers as they embark on jobs in the civilian workforce.
The Soldier For Life-Transition Assistance Program, which falls under Human Resources Command at Fort Knox, Kentucky, is using its new #HireaSoldier hashtag and online magazine to connect with transitioning servicemembers. Each year, about 120,000 soldiers transition out of uniform.
“The Army has invested significant resources in … taking care of people,” said Col. Walter Herd, USA (Ret), director of SFL-TAP. “Transitioning can be daunting. Sharing information, lessons learned and advice to make the process smoother is our goal.”
SFL-TAP provides transition assistance to soldiers beginning at 18 months before separation. The program includes more than 600 career counselors across the globe and a virtual center that is staffed 24/7. Its resources are available to veterans regardless of how long they have been separated from service.
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As part of the program, soldiers attend seminars addressing proper attire for their job search, conduct interviews, negotiate salaries, and develop professional skills.
In November, the program added a biannual online magazine, Hire a Soldier. The inaugural cover story is an interview with Sgt. Maj. of the Army Daniel Dailey.
SFL-TAP has also doubled down on its social media presence by using #HireaSoldier to tag job openings and spread advice or tips for transitioning servicemembers. Its representatives also participate in job fairs, such as MOAA's annual networking event that connects servicemembers past and present with hundreds of employers. The 2019 Military and Veteran Networking Forum is set for Sept. 19 at the National Air and Space Museum.
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The forum is one of several career- and transition-assistance programs offered by MOAA that can give members a competitive advantage in securing their civilian or career advancement for veterans already established in the workforce, said Col. Brian Anderson, USAF (Ret), director of career transition and member services at MOAA. MOAA's Premium and Life members also benefit from individual career consultation services, interview prep, resume critiques, job alerts, and financial and benefits counseling.
Amanda Dolasinski is MOAA's staff writer. She can be reached at amandad@moaa.org. Follow her on Twitter @AmandaMOAA.
