MARINE CORPS RECRUIT DEPOT, San Diego -- Marines transitioning out of the military have a new and improved program to aid in this process aboard Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego.
The Transition Readiness Seminar is a five day course that covers a range of topics for the transitioning military member and their spouse.
“I don’t think the old (transition assistance program) was meeting the requirements or needs of the Marines getting out of the military,” said James Stewart, professional development trainer, MCRD Personal and Professional Development Center.
The first two days include topics that are beneficial to all Marines, while the next two days cover a specific pathway of their choice. There are four different pathways in the new TRS program including: education, employment, entrepreneurship or vocational/technical training.
“Each one of those pathways has certain pre-work that needs to be completed to be ready for the class,” said Stewart. “All of this is to help prepare you for when you come here.”
The completed pre-work helps the instructors to guide and offer advice to the Marine in their post-military goals. This packet includes web sites and resources that assist with planning and understanding various veteran benefits.
“I feel like the changes were much needed,” said Stewart. “It meets the core or heart of what a Marine needs when getting out.”
Spouses who are interested in transitioning assistance can also choose a pathway class to attend. Due to the classes being held every month, those interested in multiple pathways have the option to attend multiple seminars.
“I think the TRS is meeting the requirements that Marines have and not only themselves but their spouses as well,” said Stewart.
With an unemployment rate of 8.1 percent, the TRS helps Marines to ensure a successful transition to their next step. TRS is a requirement for all Marines who are within 90 days to a year of the end of their current contract.
The week-long Transition Readiness Seminar is held once a month at Building 14, the MCRD Personal and Professional Development Center. For more information contact Mina Threat at (619)524-1283.