Fort Belvoir, VA –
As a nation on Veterans Day, we recognize and thank every U.S. military veteran for their service and sacrifice. Many of us reflect on the discipline, bravery, physical strength, and mental fortitude that their service in battle demands. But we must also appreciate the extraordinary range and depth of capabilities our veterans develop.
The term “warfighter” rightly evokes the valor and might of physical battle. But it encompasses a vast array of additional and equally essential roles and strengths. Our warfighters are also peacekeepers, humanitarians, logisticians, medical professionals, technologists, and communications experts. At DCAA, we are proud of the number of military veterans who have made the transition to a civilian career as a new way to support the DoD mission and serve their country—and each story is unique.
After serving in the Air Force for almost 24 years, as both a B1 Crew Chief and a High/Low Voltage Electrician, and working for the Army for 6 years as an armed guard, Randy Goble now works at DCAA as an Office Automation Assistant. “My advice for any vet would be to get a job you like,” Goble says, “I’m glad I landed my job at DCAA.”
Communications team member Leslie Mehall retired from the Army in 2008 while stationed in Germany and continued working overseas as a DoD civilian in a similar role until she came across a position at DCAA. Despite some differences in the job demands, Mehall notes that “teamwork and flexibility” are two attributes from her time in the military that are necessary for her current communications career. “Being able to work with others to meet a common goal is critical,” Mehall says, “and we have to be ready to adapt to changes as they happen.”
For Recruitment Team Supervisor Patrick Grimes, there were a few steps in between his military and DCAA careers. Grimes transitioned from the U.S. Navy into civilian employment, working in HR at a rehabilitation hospital, before transitioning to the IRS, Office of Chief Counsel as an Area Program Specialist (Personnel). “I had a friend who told me that DCAA was looking for a Human Resources Officer in Irving, TX, so I applied, interviewed, and received a job offer, Grimes explained. “I was determined to get back into management, and HR is really my passion, so I was happy to accept the HRO position with DCAA.”
To us, supporting the warfighter also extends to the hiring process. Visit our website to learn more about several specialized hiring programs that help eligible veterans obtain a DCAA career, including Veterans’ Preference, Veterans Employment Opportunity Act of 1998 (VEOA), and Military Spouse hiring authorities.