"As a new IC for CASY & MSCCN ,I wanted to leverage and build our relationship through the SFL Program at each major installation. Ft Hood represents the largest transition point for the Army at 13-15,000 transitioning Veterans per year. I know we can help Veterans,and choosing FT Hood only made sense to explore and learn more about SFL Programs and networking opportunities..."
~ Sandy Artman, T2TL Program Manager
The rest are support personnel (fleet mechanics & managers, admin, dispatchers, etc.), but job seekers can't see past the badge. 7-Eleven is the other example I use all the time. They think, "I don't want to make Slurpees or work behind a counter." The reality is 7-Eleven’s GLOBAL headquarters is in Dallas, Texas, and 7-Eleven has as many as 300 open supervisory and management positions available.
The other issue for soldiers is that they often do not know their own value and can't market themselves as they should to potential employers. Employers often want ready-made applicants, meaning they assume soldiers should have the perfect resume written only for them. The reality: most soldiers bring unique talent and skills to the civilian workforce, but may lack the job-seeking professionalism employers expect.
Sandy: What do employers such as SWIFT, the largest Trucking company in the US, bring to these events?
Robert: Jobs! All the employers bring diverse opportunities for all the job seekers. Size usually equals quantity, but not necessarily quality. We look at everything (focusing our transitioning numbers and demographics, as well as shortages in the US) when planning this event.
Above: Robert Schumacher, Fort Hood SFL Marketing Coordinator & Transition Services Specialist with Mike Schramm, HR Mechanic & Shop Recruiter for SWIFT
Sandy: How do Non-Profits like CASY & MSCCN fit into your equation? Do you consider them a combat multiplier when it comes to helping Veterans and Families find employment?
Robert: Non-profits add additional opportunities through increased employer outreach and job postings. Since the fact is most 'good' jobs are generated through "the network," it only seems reasonable that the larger the network, the more opportunities. (continued on page 15)