DAHLGREN, Va. –
On May 30, the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division's (NSWCDD) Employee Engagement Program hosted a Veteran Integration Program event focusing on “Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life.” The event featured a panel consisting of four veterans from NSWCDD representing various branches of the military: Cmdr. Karen Wingeart, Lt. Dillon Heming, Alex Salunga and Niccole Taylor.
Attendees had the opportunity to engage with the panel through a Q&A session and participate in a networking scavenger hunt, fostering connections and sharing insights on transitioning from military to civilian life.
The event provided an open platform for attendees to listen to and connect with colleagues who have undergone or are currently navigating this significant life transition. Regardless of whether attendees were in the midst of this transition or had completed it years ago, all were encouraged to join in on the discussion.
In closing remarks, representatives of the Veteran Integration Program expressed gratitude to the panelists for sharing their valuable wisdom and experiences. Special acknowledgment was extended to Chuck Campbell of NSWCDD and Heming for their contribution to the SkillBridge program.
The Department of Defense’s SkillBridge program offers service members the chance to gain civilian work experience through industry-specific training, apprenticeships, or internships in the last 180 days of service, connecting them with industry partners for real-world job experiences. NSWCDD stands as an approved SkillBridge partner organization.
The hosts also expressed appreciation to all attendees, both in-person and virtual, for their support. Veteran Integration at NSWCDD is an established mentoring program designed to pair recently hired veterans with experienced veteran employees, providing crucial support and guidance throughout their transition to civilian employment. Through such mentoring partnerships, the organization attempts to assist veterans in successfully navigating this phase in their careers.
Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging, but with programs like the Veteran Integration Program at NSWCDD, veterans find invaluable support and guidance as they embark on their new civilian careers.