CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, SC –
The Airman and Family Readiness Flight will host a presentation to help Airmen transitioning to civilian life May 12 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in building 500.
The program "Marketing Yourself for a Second Career" has been presented across the world by Navy Capt. Brian Blanchfield and is held annually at more than 100 U.S. military installations. It has a reputation as a "must attend" for people three years or less from their separation or retirement date. It certainly may benefit anyone who is even five years from leaving the military.
George Ferguson, 437th Mission Support Squadron A&FRF transition assistance program manager, said the briefing is open to any base member who wishes to attend.
"This is one thing we do that benefits active-duty Airmen and family members to help them make a smooth transition back to civilian life after leaving the military," said Mr. Ferguson.
This presentation is intended for all officers and NCOs who are considering a transition from military service. Spouses of active-duty members are welcome and encouraged to attend.
"It's a completely different ball game in the civilian field," said Mr. Ferguson. "We want to give our transitioning members every advantage to succeed. Knowing the right questions to ask and interviewing techniques are essential when competing with your civilian counterparts who have been doing job searches in the civilian sector more then our military members. This is a win-win situation."
Mr. Blanchfield will discuss job competition, transition planning, resumes, salary negotiation, networking, and interviewing. All attendees will receive a free copy of "Marketing Yourself for a Second Career," a newly revised 75-page book published by Military Officers Association of America.
Mr. Blanchfield served in the Navy Supply Corps for more than thirty years. As a logistician, he served aboard four ships and at numerous stateside and overseas locations. His decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit and others received during his career.
In his final military assignment, Mr. Blanchfield served on the faculty at the Industrial College of the Armed Forces at Ft. McNair, Washington, D.C. He had opportunities at that point in his career to mentor and counsel servicemembers in matters to include future transition.
His own transition into the civilian community was a one-year process. Upon retirement, Mr. Blanchfield worked for Lockheed Martin as a senior program manager. After working for this defense contractor for almost three years he accepted a position with the MOAA.
This new phase of his post military career has allowed him an opportunity to give back to military members worldwide. He has done extensive research, writing and lecturing about issues that affect military members and their own transition to the civilian work force.
This presentation is offered as part of the A&FRF Transition Assistance Program. For more information or to sign up, call 963-4406.