Transitioning Requires More Time than Expected

Great information Brian, there are plenty of gaps that need to be filled. Unfortunately, there are many out there who "have not been in those shoes" to best determine how/what/where/when/etc to start making "the jump" to the other side. And it is NOT just the military community - look at how many college students go through 4 (or more) years of college only to find out they were just drinking the Kool-aid and marching lock-step in time toward that end point called "graduation". I knew what I wanted to do early in high school. Made sure I did all the right things with plenty of time to work with - but it didn't help. So many mitigating factors fall into play. I think the biggest problem how to ensure proper mentorship throughout the service period. You don't know what you don't know, right. Just like one other mentioned - start early and build the foundation and develop the skills necessary to transition, but every year more and more cuts to training, especially what are deemed to be "non-critical" skills does not help. Many combat troops do not understand this NOR have the time to work on these skills. Train to fight. Or take those who have the right skills and do "the right things" and still cannot get the job. An example: location being what it is, might not even be a viable option to move, then what? Stuck behind the 8-ball like so many others and working flipping burgers. So, how can this be remedied? Time would be great, but time is what many do not have - or, lets dig deeper, a better understanding as to what that time means. Why do so many kids have the "no fear" attitude? Because they have not gained the insight to fear, so they feel they are invincible. There's no need to fear, when there's proper development along the way, of what happens at the "end". I deal with this exact issue every day in my role as an Advocate. We all own a piece of this puzzle, it's just getting the right match for the right person, and therein lies the challenge.

I have read many great comments and recommendations that are all valid. I would ask for those that are affiliated with a service's separation program, i.e. SFL-TAP for Army, push your recommendations. Without feedback and recommendations, each service will continue moving forward without innovation. This also helps change the regulations governing separation. There is no one model for separation as every person is unique in what they want and what their motivation level is. For junior members, they are still finding themselves and how they fit in the world. Those are the ones at the highest risk and more focus and resources are needed for them. The mid-level leaders and retirees can focus on 24 months out and plan. Last thing I would share is that there are numerous civilian programs that target who they provide to. That is why there is no one fit for everyone. Counselors need to learn about these organizations and link them to their service members. I have yet to find any database or handou that shares these organizations with service members. Something I will do with my local SFL-TAP during my last eight months transitioning.

Brian, great points you've made! In dealing with the civilian sector, it's much the same. I often tell clients that once you're secured in that new job, revise your resume and be prepared to look for that next job. Never stop training, never stop growing, and never wait to build your path to the future. Planning ahead is a security that's invaluable!

Great information provided. Soldiers definitely need to start the transition process early thinking about what their next steps. There is plenty of resources available to make the process smoother. Something one should keep in mind is it is not what you know; but who you know. Please feel free to reach out to me for assistance. Have a great day. Dwayne