By Jeff Murphy,
February 11, 2016
WARRENSBURG, MO – Military veterans who transitioned into the civilian job market
will be among those sharing advice for other service members who want to make a similar
career change during the Warrior in Transition Forum. This free event takes place
from 9 a.m. to noon Tuesday, March 8, at the University of Central Missouri.
The forum is open to active duty military members and veterans, and is sponsored by
the Society of American Military Engineers Greater Kansas City Post. The group is
working with UCM’s Office of Military and Veteran Services to make the program possible.
It takes place in Elliott Student Union 240.
During the session, retired military service members/business professionals will share
their transition experience and advice about the job market, provide an overview of
the market, as well as discuss specific positions associated with their firms, and
essential skill sets. It will feature a panel discussion, followed by breakout sessions
with panelists and an opportunity for questions and answers.
Panelists include the following individuals who are retired military members, now
working in business and other professions: Tony Hofman, director of Public Works,
City of Overland Park, Kan.; Justin Tate, City of Overland Park; Joe Lykins, Tyco-Grinnell;
Jason Davis, Affinis; Reed Brown, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; and Jerry Place, University
of Missouri - Kansas City.
Program objectives include assisting and informing transition veterans about the process
of transitioning to the civilian sectors; expanding interest in career fields associated
with the GKC Post SAME Sustaining Members firms; providing a professional networking
opportunity; offering mentorship and professional development through SAME; and encouraging
and informing attendees about the benefits of SAME.
“This setting provides a perfect opportunity for active duty service members preparing
to transition from military service to the civilian job market. It’s also an opportunity
for our current UCM military and veteran students to obtain personal advice from seasoned
business professionals on what to expect during transition, how to market themselves
and prepare for the future,” said Delilah Nichols, coordinator of Military and Veteran
Services. “Having the venue to network with future potential employers and map out
a plan for the required skill set and future employment needs is invaluable.”
Individuals who wish to attend should register by March 1 by contacting Nichols at
nichols@ucmo.edu or by calling 660-543-8977.
