David Gabhart ⋅ Woodway , TX L-3 Communications ⋅ 32 years experience

Wayne,

It sounds like you definitely know what you want to do vis a vis cutting sling and moving on, but I would caution you to ensure you know precisely what it is you want to do prior to making the leap, as well as what opportunities there are.

Currently, the DoD in general has a shortage of contracting officers, The Civil Service series that covers that is considered short, and most of the trade publications state that the shortages will become more dire as time marches on, i.e. there will be a lot of needs in the civil service community for Contracting Officers. Not sure whether or not you even have an interest in that, or an interest in being a GS, but it could be beneficial. You're current skills would translate well into that, as opposed to the PMP, where I don't know what skills you have.

Second thought. Anyone can join PMI. However, when you apply for the exam, just having a PMP Prep Course isn't enough to allow you to apply. In other words, PMI has to see demonstrated Project Management experience and there is a requirement for so many months and years of experience in various areas, i.e. Initiating Projects, Planning, Executing, Monitoring and Controlling, and Closing. Not having either the previous requisite training, or experience, may disqualify you as far as the PMI is concerned for even sitting for the exam.

Having said that, you may HAVE that experience or have done much of it in contracting, i.e. pre award or post award activities on contracts you manage. You may even already have the requisite training that translates into the appropriate CEU's they want to see. I just wanted to ensure you knew it wasn't as easy as taking a week long course, reading the PMBOK and passing a test.

Good luck with the decision. I will tell you there is life after, and it can be rewarding. I will also tell you that many positions are offered based on personal networking or actually knowing someone within that field and within a company. Web based job search engines are difficult to crack, and few jobs are obtained that way than via personal interaction.

Best of luck.

Dana Bobko ⋅ Jupiter , FL AT&T ⋅ 25 years experience

Please visit http://att.jobs/doing-great-things/military. There are several project management positions that do not require a PMP, but can likely provide you with the experience to pursue the PMP.

Also, there are some PM jobs available by searching the http://att.jobs website (some require a DoD security clearance).

Thanks,
Dana

Kelly Williams ⋅ Newark , DE Stars to Stripes Military Transition Assistance ⋅ 10 years experience

Wayne,

Obtaining your PMP certification will definitely be viewed as a plus. Additionally, if you still have access to Defense Acquisition University (DAU) access, look into becoming level 2/3 certified in program management. DAWIA certifications are well respected in the defense and intelligence community.

DAU Website: http://www.dau.mil/default.aspx

Have you considered federal employment? You will find that there are two main benefits when seeking a federal career as a vet:

1. You can buy back your military times towards retirement
2. On most applications you will receive a 5-10 point preference during the hiring process

Given your background, I believe the following federal career series may interest you:
0346, Logistics Management
0340, Program Management
1102, Contract Specialist

When you go on USAJobs.gov, type the above 4 digit # in the search box and then enter your geographical preference. This will populate a list of similar positions in your area.

Here is a link to the OPM issued occupational handbook:
http://www.opm.gov/fedclass/gshbkocc.pdf

This handbook goes over the various career fields/series offered by the federal government.

More importantly, make sure your resume is formatted correctly for both federal and private sector applications.

If you need additional guidance, feel free to message or email me directly. We offer free resume critiques to all service members. Thank you for your service. We are here to help!

Warmest Regards,

Kelly Williams
Career Strategist & President
Expert Resume Solutions
Business: (732) 686-6455
Email: Info@ExpertResumeSolutions.com
www.ExpertResumeSolutions.com

David Boone ⋅ Chesapeake , VA U.S. Navy, Rear Admiral Lower Half ⋅ 30 years served

I work in industry and the PM certifications are highly valued and sought after. Go after it!