After five busy years as a Navy spouse, #CHKD Child Life Specialist Alyssia Smoes-Land knows a thing or two about embracing the challenges of military life. Engaged and nearly done with graduate school, Alyssia supported her then-fiancé, Erik, as he joined the U.S. Navy in 2019. The duo sped up their wedding plans and were married later that year before moving to South Carolina in early 2020. They were in for constant change over the next few years between boot camp, a pandemic, additional schooling for Erik’s job as a nuclear electronics technician, and a move to Virginia. Once stationed in Hampton Roads, Alyssia began volunteering with CHKD's Integrative Care department where it didn't take long for her to become a full-time child life specialist. Alyssia’s been an integral member of #TeamCHKD for two years! Her husband serves on the USS Helena, a nuclear submarine currently on its way to Washington to be decommissioned. During this time, they’ll have to be apart for 14 months. “This next year will be our most challenging with having to do long distance, and we are not looking forward to it,” Alyssia shared. Thankfully, she has support. “The Navy has helped me meet some of the best people - due to moving around - and for that I am forever grateful.” Thank you, Alyssia and Erik, for the many sacrifices you make in service of your country and for sharing your story. Your experience inspires us all to be better citizens and supporters of our local military families! #ChildLifeSpecialist #NavySpouse
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PreVeteran is in DC at the Modern Day Marine Conference! If you're at the conference, stop on by and say hello to me and Bill Barrington! At this conference we are reinforcing the message that the current program of record—TAP/TRS—is doing it's best, it's falling short in preparing #marines for their post military lives. ❌ A poor military transition impacts individual Marines ❌ A poor military transition impacts Marine Families and relationships ❌ A poor military transition impacts readiness ❌ A poor military transition impacts recruiting It's high time to rethink transition with an enduring program that helps the service member understand: 🔷 The military and private sector environment are COMPLETELY different 🔷 As a result, all service member have large gaps that need to be filled 🔷 That iterative career exploration pathway with tools, a model, and support are the only way to really zero in a post-military career All of this, and more, we already do a PreVeteran. We'd also like to thank the Wyoming Business Council for sponsoring us and other Wyoming companies like Legacy HDPE, Brunson Instrument Company, and Victor Company. #militarytransition #transitioningmilitary #preveteran #wellness Aaron, Joe, Nicholas, Shawnda, Jonny, Joshua, Matt, Matt, Bobby, Vic, Naviere, Dixon, 🎣Sara, Erik, Jack, Todd, Michelle, Stuart, Matthew, Ceir, José, Heather
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Title: Examining the Influence of SkillBridge Opportunities on Marine Corps Retention Rates In conversations within our community, a topic of significant interest and importance has surfaced: the availability and promotion of SkillBridge opportunities for service members, particularly in the Marine Corps. SkillBridge, a program aimed at providing service members with work experience during their last 180 days of service, serves as a crucial tool for transition, offering both training and job prospects beyond the military. However, murmurs and concerns have begun regarding whether there may be an effort within units or command structures to restrict these opportunities subtly. Recall: At one point, the Marine Corps was explicit with this campaign when they published an order in Oct 2023 to only be rescinded after 2 weeks after intense backlash. The fundamental question revolves around whether this is an endeavor to enhance retention rates by retaining valuable personnel in the ranks, potentially at the expense of individual career progression and successful transition. Programs like SkillBridge are crafted to acknowledge the dedication and sacrifices made by personnel by ensuring they have opportunities as they move into civilian life. The Concerns at Hand; • Some may view restricting SkillBridge opportunities as favoring the organization's needs over aiding service members in their growth and post-military endeavors. • If these actions are indeed actual, they could potentially dampen morale. Go against the principle of supporting service members in transitioning to careers. (Ask for my Case Study 2023-2024 on 2dMLG and my experience)
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Indo-Pacific Security Initiative Fellow at Atlantic Council | Editorial Board Member at USNI | Writer | Views my Own, Likes/Shares =/= Endorsement
This #madness again. At the risk of giving oxygen to a dead argument, let's be clear: the anti-#ForceDesign crowd who call themselves '#Chowder2', and their accomplices, continue to echo old, broken arguments that have long since been shown wanting by the evidence at hand. Moreover, the motivations of these retired GOs for what they say and how they say it are inseparable from their positions within the defense industry. 1. Insightful authors and serving #Marines who have been working this issue, fully informed by the threat and the guidance of the #SECDEF, have written on this effectively and repeatedly in the pages of War on the Rocks and elsewhere. I won't repeat those arguments here - it just shows how out of touch #Chowder2 really is. They are stuck on the same alleged grievance of not getting invited to red team some early war-games. The world has turned multiple times since then and #ForceDesign is light years ahead of where it was in 2019 . Write on a way forward for the way the world is now and how it might be tomorrow. 2. This author claims that serving #Marines who are critical of #ForceDesign cannot speak their voice because of repression of thought within the Corps that he ignorantly calls 'Stalinist'. Dare I point this author to the Marine Corps Gazette, the Corps' professional journal, which publishes content that is largely critical of the #MarineCorps across every area. Serving #Marines find issues wanting, they raise problems, and recommend solutions. Apple carts get shaken and overturned on the regular, Heck, they have an entire essay contest - the Chase Essay Contest - that is aimed at criticizing traditional practice. I'd offer that the #USMC probably has the most intellectually free culture of any U.S. military service. 3. One of the front men of #Chowder2, a retired GO, has communicated that many of the members of that team are associated with the defense industry, and that their positions on #ForceDesign are directly informed by these post-retirement jobs. In correspondence, this retired GO specifically noted risk to summer cruises and contributions to the college funds of grand children. Follow the money. There is low-hanging fruit for a great story on this for a savvy defense #journalist willing to put some obvious pieces together. Doubling down on this dead position just makes you look sillier every time. https://lnkd.in/e9vdA4SQ
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It's very common for veterans to feel both nostalgia for their service while also being glad to have transitioned to civilian life. A few reasons why someone might miss the Marine Corps but be glad they are now a civilian: - They miss the camaraderie and brotherhood/sisterhood they experienced with their fellow Marines. The strong bonds formed can be difficult to replace. However, as a civilian they have more freedom and flexibility in who they associate with. - They enjoyed the challenge and adventure of military service, but are happy to no longer deal with the strict discipline, long hours, and physical/mental demands. Civilian life offers more work-life balance. - Leaving was difficult due to pride in serving their country and being part of an elite fighting force. But as a civilian, they don't have to face the risks and sacrifices of military duties and deployments anymore. - They miss the structure, routine and sense of purpose the Marines provided. But civilian life allows them to set more of their own schedule and goals. - Fond memories of their service and the personal growth it facilitated. However, they appreciate controlling their own destiny as civilians rather than serving at another's orders. - Nostalgia for "the good old days" in the Marines. But civilian life affords more freedom to pursue their own personal/family goals and happiness. So in summary - it's normal to look back fondly while also feeling relieved to have control over your own life as a civilian after service. Both perspectives can coexist.
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Attention United States Marine Corps service members gearing up for #militarytransition...there are some rule changes you need to know about. The previous timeline for departure from the Marine Corp was 4-14 months. In other words, you had to notify the Corp no earlier than 14 month and no later than 4 months. According to the linked article the following rules have gone in with immediate effect. Marines must now notify: 1️⃣ As early as 18 months 2️⃣ No later than 6 months The article stated two reasons for this change—to add predictability to recruiting and to ensure Marines are ready for their transition. Two associated quotes from the article: "One of the elements of Talent Management is predictability, and to facilitate it for assignments and related actions," the service update message said. "The update to retirement and resignation requests was made to set transitioning Marines up for success as they embark on their next stage of life," Eason said. Be sure to get the word out! 📣 Joe, Cray, Paul, Hunter, Nicholas #transitioningservicemembers #military #marines #transitioningmilitary
Marines Leaving Service Must Now Notify Corps at Least 6 Months Before Departure
military.com
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❗ Last day of Active Duty, tomorrow is a new chapter: ❗ Over the past 24 years, I have had the honor and privilege of serving in the United States Marine Corps, a journey that has taken me to various corners of the globe. Reflecting on this remarkable chapter of my life, a profound sense of pride swells within me as I recall being a part of the smallest yet most lethal branch of the U.S. military. In the Marines, I learned the true meaning of discipline, camaraderie, and unwavering dedication to a cause larger than oneself. The pride that comes with being a Marine is not just about the uniform but the shared ethos of excellence, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of mission success. Transitioning from the Marine Corps to my current role in a smaller company Alethia Software, I find intriguing parallels. While the scale may differ, the essence remains the same—being part of a tight-knit, highly specialized unit that makes a significant impact. In this new venture, much like my military service, I am a member of a team that, though smaller than many, is proving to be a potent force in the SATCOM domain. Just as the Marine Corps is the smallest branch but excels in agility and precision, our current company, despite its size, is making waves in the realm of satellite communications. The parallels extend beyond mere size; they encompass the commitment to excellence, the sense of duty, and the understanding that every individual plays a crucial role in achieving the broader mission. In both contexts, I have witnessed the power of a focused and determined group, proving that impact is not always measured by sheer size but by the caliber of individuals and their collective dedication to a shared goal. The lessons learned in the Marine Corps have seamlessly translated into this new chapter, reinforcing the idea that the impact one can have is not confined to the size of the organization but to the strength of its character and the unwavering commitment of its members. As I continue this journey in the private sector, I carry with me the pride of a Marine, the lessons of a seasoned veteran, and the understanding that, whether in uniform or in the corporate world, the impact one makes is a testament to the values held and the dedication given to a cause greater than oneself.
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Advocate for a globally competitive #AUSTRALIANFUSIONENERGYINDUSTRY with strategic communications expertise.
Best invest in Building Fusion power, space, and maritime propulsion systems and industry, You talk about Nuclear (meaning Fission) and fail to discuss fusion. https://lnkd.in/ge_aeX7M The nuclear fission industry is, ignorant of what's happening around you. Pull your uranium heads out, start adjusting your industry to fusion energy and start preparing to enter the commercially growing fusion energy industry. As it dawns on Earth like the sun. Great Headline Guardian on Nuclear fission. https://lnkd.in/g8sMZtpR Fission is moving towards obsolescence at an accelerated pace, as it is "out of step, out of time, out of place," and merely a temporary industry globally. https://lnkd.in/gbd_mZqk Commercial fusion electrical generation is a promising innovative sustainable and clean energy method. By 2028, Helion is expected to start producing electricity from its first fusion commercial power plant, which will provide electricity to Microsoft. The plant will produce at least 50 MWe after an initial ramp-up period. https://lnkd.in/gY9J3MQY Now see what is happening in the Fusion industry in the world. https://lnkd.in/g9hMBD7a As fission trebles, fuel shortage is increasingly real, https://lnkd.in/gze5rwpr
The GA team recently attended the United States Marine Corps career exploration and hiring event at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton to share insights on possible career paths for post-service members looking for their next chapter. With Camp Pendleton being the largest Marine Corps base on the West Coast, we love connecting with Marines and Sailors to help them find careers that allow them to easily transition skills developed during their military training into long-term careers at GA. Ready to start a new post-service chapter yourself? View our open positions: https://bit.ly/3xgLXzo #Hiring #Veteran #Marines #GrowWithGA #GeneralAtomics #FreedomToExplore
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While you may aim to be the captain of your own destiny, every sailor knows it takes an entire crew to sail a ship. This collective wisdom holds invaluable insights for veterans transitioning to civilian life. In the military, success is a team effort, reliant on various roles and skill sets working in harmony. Similarly, a successful transition to civilian life involves tapping into a network of resources and support systems. Veterans should consider assembling their "crew" for this new chapter—a network of mentors, career advisors, and fellow veterans who can offer guidance and emotional support. Various organizations and platforms offer specialized services, from job placement to mental health resources, tailored for veterans. Academic institutions often have dedicated programs for returning service members, providing educational pathways to new careers. Family and friends can also be a strong support network, providing emotional ballast during this transformative journey. While you may be steering your course towards new goals, remember that it's the collective effort, wisdom, and resources that will help you successfully navigate the uncharted waters of civilian life. #CaptainOfYourDestiny #VeteranResources #CollectiveWisdom #NavigatingCivilianLife #Veterans #MentorshipMatters #Ships #Navy #SailorToCivilian #MilitaryTransition #USA
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Transitioning from the military to civilian life might feel overwhelming, but there's a road map for success in this path. It's more than just a change – it's an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. As you traverse this path, explore practical insights and thoughtful strategies to make your transition smoother. Accept the challenges, learn from them, and let the secrets of a successful transition unfold, clearing the way for a rewarding civilian life. Here are 7 secrets for Successful Military Career Transitions. 🔥 #All #ActiveDuty #TransitioningMilitary #MilitarySpouses #Reservists #Veterans #ACTNowEducation
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Transitioning from the military to a career in construction has been a fulfilling journey for me. The skills and experiences gained during my 24 years with the Corps of HM Forces (ARMY) Corps of Royal Engineers, especially in #leadership, #teamwork, and #projectmanagement, have seamlessly translated into the #construction sector. In my current role at BIM Academy, I leverage these #skills daily, particularly in empowering the construction industry and #academia through innovative training and development in #BIM and digital construction #technologies. The cultural similarities between the #ArmedForces and the #ConstructionIndustry, such as structured environments, strategic planning, and operational logistics, make this field a natural fit for veterans. For anyone in the military considering their next career move, I highly recommend exploring opportunities in construction. The sector not only values but also greatly benefits from the unique perspectives and discipline that ex-service personnel bring. I'd like you to please read more about my journey in the article below. #MilitaryToConstruction #VeteransInConstruction #LeadershipSkills #Teamwork #ProjectManagement #BIM #EngineeringManagement #MilitaryCareer #ConstructionIndustry #ArmedForces #CareerTransition #VeteranSuccess #PostMilitaryCareer #ConstructionLogistics #CulturalImpact #VeteransSkills
What a career in #construction after the Armed Forces looks like! Many members of the military choose a career in construction, due to the similarities in the sectors set up, skill sets and logistics. Andrew Johnson joined #bimacademy after a successful #militarycareer. In 2019, Andrew left the Corps of Royal Engineers after a full 24 years’ service leaving as a senior soldier. Prior to leaving the military, Andrew completed his postgraduate MSc in #engineering management, with a thesis that investigated the cultural impact of implementing #BIM in the UK construction industry. We asked Andrew to share his thoughts and insights on the correlation between the #armedforces and the #constructionindustry, and why it is an attractive option for a post military career. https://lnkd.in/e5mr2UKF
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