Big changes to TAP have many people excited

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Evan Ross
  • 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Significant changes to the Transition Assistance Program are on their way, and start Nov. 21.

The changes include modification from a three-day to a five-day program, and TAP is now mandatory, but Carla Rincones, Airman and Family Readiness Center director, explained why that should not discourage anyone.

"This new program has so much more to offer than in the past," said Rincones, "The program is now more innovative, interactive and interest-driven than it ever has been."

According to Rincones, the additions to the program include a military operations code crosswalk, in which you will learn to take your military skills and job details and put them in terms the civilian world can understand. This is useful for resumes or job applications.

There will also be several core curriculum blocks including budget workshops and training, interviewing skills, resume-writing techniques and job-searching workshops. Veterans' Affairs disability counselings will also be held, for which people previously had to travel to San Antonio, Texas.

Rincones explained that these changes to TAP mark the first time three federal agencies have worked together on something this monumental for the purposes of aiding our transitioning service members.

"With the Department of Defense, the Department of Labor and the Department of Veterans' Affairs coming together like they have, TAP is going to be an incredible asset to our military," said Rincones, "It is meant only to be helpful and to fully prepare you for civilian life."

The AFRC will now hold the sessions monthly instead of quarterly. The sessions fill up quickly, so Rincones suggests that people begin registering as early as two years prior to separating.

She explained that when you sign up for the program, you should be prepared to bring a leave and earnings statement and credit report for the budget training, a copy of all medical records for the VA counseling and a personal computer or media device for taking notes. Spouses are also highly encouraged to come.

"We are really excited about the changes to TAP and the incredible opportunities they offer to our transitioning service members," said Rincones.

Anyone wishing to schedule themselves for the program may the AFRC at 298-5620 or send an email to AFRC.Laughlin@us.af.mil.