Dover Airmen TAP into the civilian world

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Shen-Chia Chu
  • 436th AW Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Team Dover Airmen considering retirement or separation from the military won't have to figure out their options alone.

The 436th Force Support Squadron Airman and Family Readiness Center offers the Transition Assistance Program, a four-day workshop designed to ease the transition from military service to the civilian workforce and community. TAP helps equip military members with the skills and knowledge needed for the next chapter of their career. 

Jim Pacer, A&FRC counselor, recommends Airmen use the program.

"I highly encourage Airmen to attend TAP because effective transitioning requires a lot of planning and action," said Mr. Pacer. "There are intensive lessons on writing, interview skills and much more that are good to know because they are life skills that can be used at any time."

All transitioning military members are required to receive pre-separation counseling no less than 90 days prior to leaving active-duty. However, transitioning isn't as easy as it seems.

"I realized there were many changes I needed to prepare myself for, such as writing and thinking more like a civilian, instead of writing short bullets for my resume like an EPR," said Master Sgt. Tiffani Johnson, 436th Force Support Squadron. "I learned how to effectively write a résumé and search for jobs with ease with useful websites and information provided."

TAP provides the tools needed to conduct a self-directed job search. The program consists of a briefing along with a variety of workshops, individual assistance and numerous resources.

"The workshop was very informative and helped to prepare me on what to expect when I separate from the military," said Staff Sgt. (ret.) Mike Perrault.

Sergeant Perrault said his co-workers referred him to the class.

"The teachers were very helpful and knowledgeable, they provided different kinds of tools and techniques we could use to help us write better résumés," said Sergeant Perrault.

It is mandatory to set up a pre-separation counseling appointment at least 180 days prior to separation to learn the benefits and services available before signing up for TAP.

"This class has helped me gain additional tools and knowledge to help me pursue my passion in the hospitality industry career field," said Sergeant Johnson.

For information or to sign up, call the A&FRC at 677-6930.