Veterans, the DOL is Working for You

20 Februay 2013 - Marine Lands Job With Help of Transition Class

Marine Joseph Hoeksema was not expecting much when he took part in a week-long Transition Assistance Program designed to prepare him for civilian life and work. But his attitude completely changed thanks to TAP instructor Jazz Busenbark. "She was very knowledgeable" about what transitioning service members would face when applying for a job and going for job interviews, Hoeksema said. Busenbark helped Hoeksema rewrite and strengthen his resume. "Joe had skills and attributes that he didn't think about listing for an employer," she said. She used the TAP "CAR" approach — Challenge, Action, and Result — to highlight his skill sets. She also drilled him on potential questions and answers in a job interview and helped him find online job boards where he could send his resume. Jazz Busenbark. Click on the picture for a larger image.

While still in the TAP program, Hoeksema's online resume received employment interest from several companies, including a phone interview with giant retailer Target. An in-person interview with that company followed with Hoeksema accepting the job offer. "At the end of the day, I had received and accepted an offer in the location I wanted, making more money than I ever expected," he said. Last July President Obama announced the first major re-design of the TAP program in 20 years. Under it, service members receive counseling in budget planning, veterans' benefits, military skills translation, and career advice. They can also participate in training programs to pursue their post-military goals such as attending college, earning a professional license, or starting a small business.

• Learn More About the TAP Program