The Transition Assistance Program (TAP) provides information, tools and training to ensure service members and their spouses are prepared for the next step in civilian life. Every year, approximately 200,000 men and women leave U.S. military service and return to life as civilians.
The Transition Assistance Program is based on Public Law 101-510 and Public Law 112-56 legislation which mandated the completion of Pre-Separation Counseling. In 2011, new legislation was passed under The Veterans Opportunity to Work (VOW) Act which required all service members separating from active duty within 180 days or more (excluding those on active duty training or going to school) to participate in the TAP. The FY19 NDAA signed on 13 August 2018, specifically Section 552, "Improvements to Transition Assistance Program," amends U.S.C. Title 10 -- Armed Forces, Chapter 58 1142 and 1144.
Transitioning Service members must begin the transition process 365 days prior to transition for those who are separating or retiring. It is recommended retirees begin the transition process at least two years prior to retirement. Separatees can initiate the Transition Assistance Program process as early as 14-18 months from date of separation.
In the event of an unanticipated separation or retirement, or a member of the Reserve Component is demobilized with less than 365 days, TAP must begin as soon as possible within the remaining period of service.
Initial Counseling (IC) is the first official phase to start the transition process. The IC is to be completed no later than 365 days before the anticipated date of separation or release from active duty. In the event of an unanticipated separation, IC must begin as soon as possible within the remaining period of service. To schedule an IC, call the M&FRC's front desk 575-572-7754.
During the IC the transitioning service member is assigned a Tier (I, II, or III) and potentially a track (Employment, Vocational - known as C2E, Entrepreneurship or Education). The transitioning service member is signed up for the next three phases (Pre-separation Counseling, Transition Workshop w track, and Capstone).
Pre-Separation is the second phase of the transition process. During the Initial Counseling (IC), transitioning service members are signed up to attend the Pre-Separation Counseling workshop (4 hours).
This workshop covers by-law information to include benefits, entitlements and resources for eligible transitioning service members. Pre-Separation Counseling is to be completed not later than 365 days before the anticipated date of separation or release from active duty. In the event of an unanticipated separation, Pre-separation Counseling must begin as soon as possible within the remaining period of service.
Transition Workshop is the third phase of the transition process. The workshop consists of a DoD AF Training Day, VA Benefits and Services Briefing, Department of Labor (DOL) Employment Fundamental of Career Transition (EFCT), and Employment Track. During the Initial Counseling (IC), the transitioning service member is signed up for the 3 day Transition Workshop as well as any tracks desired. Tier III transitioning service members are required to attend at least one track.
TRANSITION TRACKS
Service members are encourage to participate in the additional transition tracks.
EMPLOYMENT TRACK: Employment Workshop
This course presents a comprehensive view covering best practices in career employment, including learning interview skills, building effective resumes, and using emerging technology to network and search for employment. Offered monthly with Transition Workshop.
VOCATIONAL TRACK: Career and Credential Exploration (C2E)
This course offers an opportunity to complete personalized career development assessments of occupational interests and aptitudes. Participants will then be guided through a variety of career considerations, including labor market projections, education, apprenticeships, certifications, and licensure requirements. Offered quarterly.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP TRACK: Boots to Business
This course is for those interested in exploring business ownership or other self-employment opportunities. Participants learn about evaluating business concepts, developing a business plan, the resources available to access technical assistance, start-up capital, contracting opportunities, and more. Offered quarterly.
EDUCATION TRACK: Managing Your (MY) Education
This course, designed for anyone pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree, includes information on choosing a field of study, selecting an institution, gaining admission, and funding your education. The Education Track is offered quarterly through the Holloman Education Center.
Capstone is the fourth phase of the transition process. This is the culminating event during which commanders verify achievement of applicable Career Readiness Standards (CRS). See CRS below. Capstone should occur not later than 90 days before the anticipated date of separation or release from active duty. SEE CAREER READINESS LINKS ABOVE
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