Atlanta Takes Big Steps to Support Veterans Transitioning into Civilian Life
Atlanta, famous for its deep-rooted connection to history and culture, recently reaffirmed its commitment to those who served our country. On Thursday, November 7th, an enriching event unfolded as the city’s chapter of the National Black MBA Association gathered to brainstorm practical solutions for veterans stepping back into civilian roles.
Veterans, the remarkable individuals who’ve bravely worn the stars and stripes on their sleeves, often find the transition to civilian employment tricky at best. Kudos to Atlanta’s community for stepping up to make sure our heroes get the welcome back they deserve!
Incorporating a rich and engaging roster, Nikki Glanton, an Army veteran who was on active duty following the 9/11 attacks, steered the conversation with finesse and familiarity. She engaged three powerhouse panelists with diverse backgrounds in her quest to untangle the keys to a successful civilian transition.
A Fresh Take on Résumé Building and Interview Skills
Opening the dialogue was Neil Williams, a savvy talent acquisition leader from a major airline. Williams minced no words when describing what veterans might expect in the sometimes intimidating process of interviews and negotiations. At the heart of the matter was how best to discuss salary expectations and fine-tune resumés to attract employers.
Translating Military Skills to Civilian Success
Chris Gilbert, who helms a rising technology firm focused on assisting veterans, provided insight into the corporate brain. Attendees were captivated by how he clearly illustrated ways military skills transfer effortlessly to the corporate realm, regardless of industry shifts. “It’s all about recognizing and valuing these efflorescent abilities,” he remarked.
Embracing Diversity with Veteran Insights
Adding a spry twist was Erica J. Bolden, who brings expertise in diversity and people’s roles from a luxury automaker. Bolden explained the significance of veteran representation in the corporate ecosystem and how their unique perspectives can contribute vastly to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts.
Beyond the Panel: Next Steps for Attendees
Once the panel concluded, attendees received the golden opportunity to break into smaller groups. These breakout sessions allowed them to further dissect ideas presented in the panel and mold them into actionable steps for their future endeavors.
The feedback was gleaming. One participant expressed newfound confidence, saying, “I saw the employer side, things I hadn’t considered before now make sense!” Such events actively mold veterans, not just linking them with jobs but arming them with robust strategies to thrive in varied environments.
This remarkable initiative is more than just a nod to veterans’ past contributions. It is a celebration of their continued potential to enrich society. After all, their skills, stories, and resilience are vital traits that every community, including ours in Atlanta, greatly needs.
To everyone involved, the heartfelt appreciation is palpable. By nurturing and bringing these strategies to life, the city of Atlanta plays a meaningful role in shaping a smoother path for our veterans not only today but also for future ranks of heroes transitioning back to civilian life.
