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 SCOTT TO CATCH UP AND ASK HIM ABOUT HIS EXPERIENCE WITH HIS JOB HUNT AND WE’RE GRATEFUL FOR THE PRACTICAL ADVICE HE SHARED WITH US
SCOTT CASSIDY
Scott joined team TA3 as a Network Specialist supporting the Defense Health Agency at Luke Air Force Base after serving 8 years in the Army Signal Corps as both a MOS 25R and 25S. Scott successfully transitioned out of the Military by pairing his technical experience with a pragmatic approach to the job search and was able to secure a civilian contractor position working as a Network Engineer. We recently sat down with Scott to discuss that experience and we’re grateful for the practical advice he shared with us.
What is a typical day at work like for you?
On a typical day I’ll show up at 7 am, 30 minutes before the clinic opens, and walk the communications closets to ensure all the equipment is operational. Head back to my desk and check e-mail and start working with customers in the clinic. As the clinics only
Network Administrator the amount of work is consistent but not overwhelming.
Did you face any challenges when you first transitioned from the military into the private sector?
I feel that I was lucky during the transition process. A few weeks before my start of terminal leave I had secured a job in the city I wanted for a reasonable salary. That being said, well over a year out from transitioning I was networking and consistently reaching out to recruiters and virtual jobs fairs.
What was your initial job search experience like?
Hectic. I started early, and companies wanted the spot filled instantly. 60 days out from terminal leave I hit the job search hard and lined up as many interviews as I could. It gave me a lot of interview experience and a better insight on what a civilian employer might be looking for in a candidate.
How has your military training and experience helped you in the private sector?
Working Information Technology while in the Army gave me experience to secure my civilian job. It doesn’t stop there though, you must apply yourself and make yourself marketable. Don’t meet the minimal standards the employer has set forth, exceed at every opportunity you are given, the employer will notice.
What advice would you give to transitioning veterans looking for their first job after leaving the military?
Understand what you’re worth. A lot of companies want to hire veterans because of prior experience or having a government clearance. If you underbid yourself most companies are not going to correct you. Do your research and understand the position you will be fulfilling.
What has your experience been like working with TangoAlpha3?
It has been great so far. I’d say it is the best company that I have been in. They are responsive, helpful, and resourceful. I never felt like I had to fend for myself or navigate on my own. The company has really been there when I had questions or needed help on something!
