TAP Office guides pilots at crossroads in their careers > Wright-Patterson AFB > Article View

Whether or not to stay in the Air Force is the question that brings pilots to the Transition Assistance Program office at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia.

The Military and Family Readiness Center oversees the program. TAP is required for all military personnel on active duty for at least 180 consecutive days or more, including the National Guard and Reserve.

“We offer advice to those who know what they want to do or who are about to act,” says Tiffany Franklin, Robins TAP manager. “However, when they push the proverbial button to retire or separate, it creates a checklist for them to start working out virtually, and our office is on that checklist.

“It is a legal requirement for all military personnel leaving or retiring from the military,” she continued. “Years ago there were high suicide and unemployment rates, high rates of bankruptcies and homelessness among veterans. Congress said this had to stop and created TAP to help with all aspects of leaving the military. We provide resources and lessons that will help the service member and family members.

In 1991, the National Defense Authorization Act established TAP to reduce the hardships of servicemembers transitioning from military to civilian life.

“I wanted to gain knowledge about employment benefits and career guidance to ensure I had a smooth transition into the Air Force Reserves,” said Tech Sgt. Ashley Scott, noncommissioned officer in charge, 78th Medical Group Clinical Dentistry and Dental Logistics.

After nine years of service, Scott is ready for a new personal mission.

“My goals are to continue my education after my upcoming completion of my master’s degree. I am also trying to secure a career in the field of management,” she said. “It feels great. I’m going to transfer to the reserves, so it will be a nice balance between my military and civilian life.”

According to Franklin, service members should initiate TAP between 18 and 24 months from the date of separation or retirement.

The TAP components include:

-Step 1: Initial guidance – This first step is an individual appointment during which the objectives and transition needs of the members are discussed and assessed.

-Step 2: Pre-Divorce Counseling/Briefing – Provides information about the rights and benefits members may be eligible for and reviews the transition process.

-Step 3: Transition Workshop – All members complete a minimum of the three-day core curriculum, which consists of: DoD Day – Managing Your Transition, Military Code of Conduct Crosswalk, Financial Planning for Transition.

-Step 4: Capstone – The Capstone is an individual appointment that assesses and documents members’ career readiness standards.

“Transitioning out of the military can be extremely stressful for the military personnel and their family,” Franklin said. “We have people trying to decide if they want to get out. There are many things individuals should consider before taking the plunge. For example, do they need to obtain certifications and experience to get a new job outside the military? This is the kind of introspection needed before we part ways.”

Scott said the TAP office has been very valuable.

“I would say weigh your options, make sure you have a plan, visit the recruiters on duty and visit the Military and Family Readiness Center for guidance,” Scott said. “The MFRC has been extremely helpful during my transition. Their entire staff is great at what they do.”

For more information about TAP, pilots should contact their local Military and Family Readiness Center for guidance.