Transition to a bright future with the Transition Assistance Program! Published Aug. 8, 2008 By Staff Sgt. Kristin Ruleau 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Anyone separating or retiring within a year can use the Transition Assistance Program to help ease any fears. A four-day TAP workshop includes topics such as job search skills, resume writing, federal employment, interviewing techniques and veterans benefits. The seminar is offered once each month. The next seminar is Aug.18-21, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., at the Airmen and Family Readiness Center. A pre-separation briefing is required; both classes can be scheduled through the A&FRC at DSN 452-6422. This is the chance for Airmen to strip off the camouflage and dress to impress the corporate world. TAP students wear civilian attire and have an opportunity to dress for a mock interview. The first three days cover job searches, career decision-making, current occupational and labor market conditions, as well as resume and cover letter preparation. The fourth day is comprised of Veterans Affairs benefits. "The VA brief covers information on compensation and pension, education and training, medical care, home loans, insurance and vocational rehabilitation," said Cheryl Kirkwood, the Community Readiness Consultant at the A&FRC and TAP program manager. "In addition to the VA brief ... there are also other local agencies such as TRICARE, Finance, Military Personnel Section, Travel Management Office and A&FRC that brief information regarding separation and retirement preparation and awareness," she said. Nearing the end of his active-duty career, Master Sgt. Ben Ernst, 52nd Fighter Wing Weapons Safety Manager, said "Everyone should attend the TAP class at their 18 month - 6 month mark. This is where I'm at and the class was a great first-step towards getting on the right track to prepare for retirement." "The biggest eye-opener for me was all the different means to search for jobs and how to utilize my military experience in a variety of ways," he said. "The information from the VA was also very informative and anyone contemplating retirement needs to get a jump-start on that process to ensure VA benefit awareness." "Even if someone thinks they may be staying in well past 20 years, it's never too early to be prepared and informed!" he said. Future attendees should come prepared with a copy of their VMET DD Form 2586, and any other information that would be helpful for creating resumes, such as Enlisted Performance Reports and award packages.