Transition Assistance Program offered at AFRC Published July 30, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Anne Gathua 17th Training Wing Public Affairs GOODFELLOW AFB, Texas -- Transitioning from military to civilian life can be an exciting time, filled with hope for what the future may hold, but it can also be a daunting task for servicemembers. Fortunately, the Airman and Family Readiness Center is available to ease the transition. The AFRC has a specific tailor-made program, geared towards educating servicemembers on what to expect as they make the final move from military to civilian life. Separating from military life comes with a number of changes including changing careers. The AFRC offers Transition Assistance Program workshops and pre-separation counseling that provide job-search assistance to all separating and retiring military servicemembers and their spouses. TAP workshops equip servicemembers with the tools they need to find employment. "The purpose of TAP is to help people have a smoother transition into civilian life and to overcome the most difficult aspect which is to find a new job," said Mr. Richard Tomaskovic, AFRC Community Readiness Consultant. "It doesn't matter why the servicemember is leaving. We are focused on helping them ease off into civilian life." AFRC offers a variety of skills and services across the spectrum and TAP workshops are conducted by professionally trained facilitators. "We are well staffed with highly capable people who are readily available to help our servicemembers," Mr. Tomaskovic said. During the workshops, participants learn how to write effective resumes and cover letters, proper interviewing techniques and the most current methods for successful job searches. The workshops also provide labor market conditions, they assess individual skills and competencies, and they provide information regarding veteran benefits and information addressing the special needs of disabled veterans. "We actually hold mock interview sessions with a camera and a panel to prepare servicemembers for the real interviews that they have to go through as they look for a new job," added Mr. Tomaskovic. AFRC also offers the participants handouts and tool kits full of helpful information that they can use in the future. "We are proud of our program which is available to all active duty, guard and reserve servicemembers," Mr. Tomaskovic stated. "I encourage servicemembers who have retirement or separation plans to start the TAP process early and involve their spouses because the change also affects them." For more information visit www.familysupportgoodfellow.org or call 654-3893.