TANGOALPHA3 IS EXCITED TO INTRODUCE A NEW CONTENT SERIES FOCUSED ON HIGHLIGHTING THE MANY EXCELLENT VETERANS WE’VE ASSISTED IN FINDING JOB PLACEMENTS.
The Veteran Spotlight series is a chance for us to catch up with our community of veteran talent. We discuss things like how their current job placement is going, what it was like while on the job hunt, as well as any challenges they may have faced while transitioning from the military to the private sector. In the end, it’s a great way to highlight excellent people and provide an inside vantage point into some of the services we provide and industries we serve.
We recently sat down with Jeffrie to catch up and ask him about his experience on the job hunt and what it’s been like since being placed at the Veterans Affairs Benefits Advisors Office.
Jeffrie Barnes
TangoAlpha3 is incredibly excited to be part of the VA’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP), and grateful to have successfully recruited a veteran like Jeff to help ensure members of the military understand the benefits they are entitled to as they transition into civilian life. Jeff’s military and civilian service embodies our mission and we are gratified to have him on our team!
What is a typical day at work like for you?
A typical day in the Veterans Affairs Benefits Advisors Office as the Lead Benefits Advisor is very rewarding. My day consist of providing service and family members, that are transitioning from active duty to civilian life information about their Veteran Benefits. We provide a checklist and road map to assist them in their journey. Along with supervising the office I also participate in conducting large group briefings as well as one on one briefings.
Did you face any challenges when you first transitioned from the military into the private sector?
Yes, I faced several challenging obstacles during my transition. Most were due to a lack of knowledge and not being prepared. That’s one of the most important things about my job that I like most. Having the knowledge and ability to help others not make the same mistakes that I made through their transitions.
What was your initial job search experience like?
It was very hectic and stressful. I was faced with needing to find a position that would allow me to provide for my family, and at the same time, I needed to find a job that matched my skill set. I ended up choosing to find suitable employment, as I continued my education to place myself in the position that I could take the time to find the job that was best for me and my family.
How has your military training and experience helped you in the private sector?
I was very pleased to see the demand for prior service skills that were available on the civilian market. As a Senior Noncommissioned Officer, I found a variety of job taskings were directly linked to the duties that I performed in the military. This made my transition into these positions smoother and less stressful.
What advice would you give to transitioning veterans looking for their first job after leaving the military?
Take full advantage of all the job fairs and courses available to you upon transiting. Take notes and revisit the information at a later date to ensure you have up to date information on hand when you are applying for these positions.
What has your experience been like working with TangoAlpha3?
My experience working with TangoAlbha3 has been fantastic, I could not be happier. They truly have the perfect balance of comradery and team coaching to make it a very smooth transition. All of the leadership are hands-on and available to assist you with anything you need to be successful in the position you may find yourself in. I highly recommend TangoAlpha3 to anyone I know that is looking to move into a professional position that is rewarding and satisfying at the same time.
