Newly-improved Transition Assistance Management Program focuses on individual needs of each Marine and sailor. As most know, TAMP is a program designed to help Marines and their families transition from military to civilian life.
“The student now has options to help them along their selected pathway,†said Richard Welch, the station career resource center manager. “Not everyone is looking for employment immediately upon separation, to the new TRS takes that into account and provides optional training for those intending on going to college, university or vocational or technical schools. There is also an optional path for those who may be interested in starting their own business or franchising.â€
MCAS Yuma was chosen as a test site for the changes and began conducting pilot seminars in January. The new Transition Readiness Seminar was implemented throughout the Marine Corps on March 26.
Currently, service members are required to attend the Pre-separation Counseling Brief where they learn about veteran benefits, education, relocation and financial management to name a few. Following the brief attendees are required to take at least one assessment to help them determine or confirm which path is best suited for them. According to Welch, Marines will be required to attend the week long course then choose dates to attend extra classes for their selected pathways.
“If an individual feels that even though they plan on attending school upon separation, and will need to find employment while doing so, it would be to their advantage to pursue both the employment and the education pathways,†said Welch.
Extra courses also include a detailed presentation on how to write a proper resume including the federal resume. Instructors are trained to educate service members on how to be competition in the civilian job market. Tools are also provided to translate Marine jargon into something an employer would understand.
Marines are required to attend TAMP 90 days prior to their separation date. It is highly encouraged to take it approximately a year prior due to the vast amount of information provided in these courses. Spouses are also encouraged to attend. To get signed up for the program Marines must go through their Unit Transition Counselor.
