SCHINNEN (Netherlands) - For many, retirement sounds exciting, but in reality, it may also bring challenges. Master Sgt. Mike Easterling, U.S. Air Force, has reached that career point where he is looking toward the future. To make his transition from military to civilian life easier, he used the tools offered through Transition Assistance Program (TAP).
TAP seminars provide career counseling, resume writing and interview techniques, skills assessment, veterans benefit information and financial planning. Professionally-trained facilitators present the seminars quarterly in this Tri-Border area of Germany, Netherlands and Belgium at Army Community Services on USAG Schinnen, located in the Netherlands, and the Airman & Family Readiness Center (A&FRC) on Geilenkirchen NATO Air Base in Geilenkirchen, Germany.
Preparing for retirement often begins before the decision to retire is even made. The biggest and most important step for Master Sgt. Easterling was to complete his college degree. Then, he began consolidating bills and eliminating debt. He followed a personal retirement checklist that he completed in a TAP course at the GK A&FRC, which he said, was "an excellent place to start."
Ron Holland, USAG Schinnen's Retirement Officer, says Easterling did it right. Holland is a retiree himself and a former TAP student.
"The TAP seminar helped me better prepare for job interviews, dress for success and most importantly, write a competitive resume. In fact, the resume assistance I received at the TAP program later led to my current job," Mr. Holland recalled.
Dana Murguia, TAP Project Manager for the European Region, says a civilian would pay $700 to $1,000 to attend a class like TAP in the U.S.
"Research has shown that the more job assistance services a person receives, the higher that person's starting salary will be and the faster that person will obtain meaningful employment," Ms. Murguia noted.
Holland recommends service members consider attending one to two TAP seminars, anywhere between twelve and six months before separation. Master Sgt. Easterling retires in March and is considering career options in Europe and North America. By Holland's estimate, his timing is perfect.
More than 100 military personnel complete the TAP seminars at Geilenkirchen and Schinnen every year. These quarterly seminars are open to all retiring and/or separating U.S. military members from all branches of the services.
Social Sharing