Posted on Sep 12, 2015
SPC Human Resources   Labor/Employee Relations
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I am part of a program at work that I have to come up with a pilot program that will bring about change in the VA. This is what I have so far, I am starting to feel like I may have bitten off more than I can chew... but being this is something I feel passionate about; I don't want to pick something else:

I want to set up a local pilot program for my VA that is along the ideas of DoD's Operations Warfighter Program- but not an internship like OWP. I want to set up a program that would allow for the VA and local bases transitioning centers as Service Members are getting out will have an opportunity to transition into a career in the VA.

Right now of the many VA's use VRA and 30%+ Veterans appointments into positions like food services or housekeeping aid positions. It sickens me that this is what we see as a "best opportunity" to get veterans into the workforce. So my goal is to get them into positions that relate to veterans care. Because for me, I would rather have a veteran who knows the VA struggles, answering the scheduling lines or a clinic MSA. Or in be case scenarios in positions that relate to their military occupations- if that is possible.

This is going to be a though sale for me. There are some hiring managers with in the VA. That don't like the idea of direct hires authorities, because they feel it takes away their options for "best candidate". Also many of them only focus on internal candidates for merit promotions, that they forget that they have outside options, like veterans.

Anyways I would like feedback and ideas. PLEASE. What would you guys think of this idea? I have to give a presentation about how I plan to do this.
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Responses: 4
SSgt Alex Robinson
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How about a veterans advisory committee to have oversight and make recommendations to the facility administration
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SPC(P) Jay Heenan
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It is a great idea, but the VA is similar to big Army...those with connections get hired/promoted, everyone else is just a cog in the wheel of bureaucracy. I can't even catch an actual open slot in which to apply for because "it is already being filled from within". Most jobs posted are already filled positions, but law requires them to post it. Anyway, it is a great idea, wishing you great success in seeing this through.
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SSG Raymond Whitener
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The VA should be a service for us by us. If the VA transferred the services of non-commissioned officers, soldiers, the spouses of soldiers hurt in combat, and veterans from prior conflicts into a work force, it would then be a service for veterans by veterans that care for the people and the serviced they provide
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SPC Human Resources   Labor/Employee Relations
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Completely agree!
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