Topics will include:

• Essential steps in preparing to transition
• Tips on making yourself more marketable to a civilian employer
• How to find job openings
• Preparing for an interview
• Other important factors to consider

Marcy Bulstrom, Recruiting Consultant for HireVeterans.com, a major job board for U.S. Veterans says that this webinar is a great way for our U.S. Military service personnel to get a leg up on transition and will increase their probablity of successful in a big way.  So she encourages all U.S. Military who are getting ready to transition to get on board.  “It’s mission critical that our U.S. Military peeps transition well.  Many times, in the military, that’s all the guys and gals know.  They need to get with the civilian scene so that they can make it and do so with great success.  Do it, please do it and get all the info you can” says Ms. Bulstrom.

The webinar will be held on Tuesday, February 23 from 2-3pm EST.
To register for the webinar go to https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/670274032

For further information, please email ML@caridan.com

Jeppesen, a Boeing Company, is Seeking to Hire Veterans Who Have a Passion for Customer Service and the Aviation Industry

For nearly 75 years, Jeppesen has helped aviation professionals worldwide reach their destinations safely and successfully. Today Jeppesen, the successful subsidiary of Boeing Commercial Aviation Services, is building on those roots to offer an ever-expanding array of innovative information to rail, sea and air operators.  A career at Jeppesen will offer veterans growth potential, leadership and a dedication to future possibilities.

Jeppesen & Company began in 1934 in Captain E. B. Jeppesen’s basement workshop in Salt Lake City, Utah.  Captain Jeppesen designed and produced the first instrument flying charts that depicted routes using radio aids and flight patterns.  Captain Jeppesen moved his operations to Denver, Colorado, in 1941, where he expanded his services to include flight information publications for the U.S. Navy as well as customers providing commercial air transportation.  Boeing acquired Jeppesen in 2000.  Currently, Jeppesen is headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, and has offices located around the world.

Jeppesen delivers solutions that integrate people, processes and technology to deliver safety, efficiency and economy to air, sea and rail operators around the world.  With over 70 years of industry leading experience, Jeppesen makes it possible everyday for people around the globe to reach their destinations. While its roots are firmly planted in aviation, Jeppesen continues its transformation into a technology-driven information solutions provider.  The company is now seeing new markets including marine and rail.

Quality

Quality is everyone’s responsibility at Jeppesen.   The company is committed to continuously improving its products, services and processes to meet and exceed customers’ requirements and quality objectives by integrating Jeppesen’s vision into daily work.  Jeppesen continues to:

*   Proactively pursue quality

*   Make training for quality a first-priority

*   Do it right the first time

*   Lead the market in quality

*   Build quality into everything Jeppesen undertakes

Environmental and Climate Change Policy

Environmental stewardship and conservation of resources is important to Jeppesen.   Jeppesen strives to:

*   Develop products and services that are environmentally progressive

*   Work with customers, employees and communities on activities that promote environmental protection

*   Comply with applicable environmental laws, regulations, and Jeppesen policies and procedures

*   Prevent pollution through energy and resource conservation, waste reduction and recycling

*   Continually improve its environmental management system

At Jeppesen, veterans would be part of a team that equates customers’ success with its success, makes a difference everyday, offers solutions that are best in class and, relentlessly pursues excellence.

To learn more about Jeppesen, visit the company’s web site at Jeppesen, visit HireVeterans.com or view and Apply to Jeppesen jobs!

Multiple recipient of Fortune Magazine’s 100’s Award-winning, Best-in-Class Global Company CH2M Hill is Seeking to Hire Veterans for Their Problem-Solving Skills, Integrity and Team Spirit

CH2M HILL was founded in January 1946 in Corvallis, Oregon, as CH2M —a name derived from the initials of the company’s four founders: Holly Cornell, James Howland, and T. Burke Hayes, Fred Merryfield. Some 25 years later, the company merged with Clair A. Hill and Associates to form CH2M HILL.  Like other successful companies, CH2M HILL is built on the hard work of dedicated employees who want to do the right thing, a bit of luck over the years, and the ability to respond to client needs and values with innovative solutions.

Strong Ethics and Personal Values

One of 99 global companies to be selected in 2009 as one of the “World’s Most Ethical Companies,” CH2M Hill is dedicated to the advancement of best practices in business ethics and corporate social responsibility.  Its values include:

• Honesty, integrity and trust
• Responsive client focus
• People-oriented
• Quest for innovation and continuous improvement
• Collaborative and enjoyable work environment
• Sustainable, long-term growth
• Community commitment
• Challenging work opportunities and a strong work ethic
• Commitment to safety, health, and environmental protection

Veterans Are Appreciated

At CH2M Hill, veterans are recognized and honored for their leadership, problem-solving abilities, strong work ethic, integrity, loyalty, and commitment to teamwork. CH2M HILL values veterans for their military background and wants to put this experience to work.

Veterans, senior military officers retired military personnel, and active reservists are placed on exciting projects worldwide with a diverse group of intelligent, disciplined, and focused individuals.

With over one-third of its projects awarded by the U.S. Government and thousands of former (and current) military personnel on staff, CH2M Hill values its relationship with the Armed Forces and understands the importance of a smooth transition from military life to corporate life.  CH2M Hill helps ease this challenge, and includes the family in the transition, all the while utilizing the service person’s specialized background and continuing while continuing with the established military relationship.

Global Company with Worldwide Influence

CH2M Hill now has 25,000 employees active in 80 countries.  It has 6.4 billion in gross revenues including joint ventures, and experienced in 131 countries in every continent.  In 2005, CH2M HILL was awarded over $1 billion USD in US federal government projects.

Its employees are working at more than 100 military and other United States government installations around the world.

Military Connections

Nowhere does CH2M HILL distinguish itself more than in its service to the United States government and the Department of Defense (DoD). At military and other government installations around the world, CH2M HILL provides exemplary environmental services, base operations and support, facility infrastructure services, munitions response, AT/FP, and military planning, design, and construction. In addition, CH2M HILL continues to deliver indispensable infrastructure development services in diplomatic hot spots where newly formed democracies are beginning to take root.

CH2M HILL is active in the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME), with over 300 active members spanning 60 worldwide posts. In addition, we belong to other premiere defense industry associations, such as the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) and the Association of the United States Army (AUSA).

The following awards have been presented to CH2M Hill for its work on military projects:

• 2007 VAPA Outstanding Plan Award, Four Mile Run Restoration Master Plan
• Joint Long-Range Energy Study, Greater Fairbanks Military Complex, Alaska
• 2006 Air National Guard Environmental Restoration Award for Individual/Team Excellence
• Rhein-Main transition Program, Spendahlem U.S. Air Force Base, Germany
• S.A.M.E. 2005 Outstanding Sustaining/Public Agency Member of the Year

Employee-Owned

CH2M HILL’s employees own 100% of the firm, and many employees actively participate in the internal stock market. The ownership program and entrepreneurial culture attract high-caliber people who take a personal stake in their work.

Leadership

CH2M Hill wants veterans to be in a work environment that is rewarding and inspiring.  Giving veterans he leadership they need to succeed in turn makes veterans yet another leader to inspire other staff as well.

To learn more about CH2M Hill, visit the company’s web site at www.ch2m.com or visit HireVeterans.com and view and Apply to Ch2M Hill jobs!

Veterans Get Boost From Insurance Company to Start to their own Business

Accredited Surety and Casualty Company, Inc. is one of the nation’s most respected niche insurance companies. Licensed in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, Accredited specializes in underwriting bail and non-contract commercial surety bonds. Building on their long-standing commitment to members of the military and their families during active duty, Accredited is proud to expand its support to veterans transitioning to civilian life.

Accredited’s Veterans Program is the first initiative in this industry to help honorably discharged men and women join the ranks of small business owners by launching and managing their own bail bond agencies. Accredited is proud to provide resources, tuition assistance and business tools to help veterans pursue this exciting and rewarding career path. This innovative program is being launched primarily in Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania, but the outreach can be extended to all 50 states, depending on their needs.

Veterans seeking post-military careers have found a natural connection to the bail industry, where they can use valuable skills acquired during their military service — such as leadership, teamwork, discipline and critical thinking. In addition, national studies show that the success rate for entrepreneurs who are veterans is higher than their non-military counterparts.      

At Accredited, agents are valued partners. That’s not just a slogan … it’s really the core of everything they do. It’s the reason why they created exclusive software to streamline their agents’ business operations … host agent conventions … and educate legislators about their industry. It’s why they are proud of the long-term, productive relationships they established with their loyal agent force.

When Hank Snow began the family’s business in 1971, he couldn’t have imagined how the company would evolve. Still to this day, the company strives to live up to the gold standard Hank set. At Accredited they;

•    Maintain an “A” rating for excellence from A.M. Best.
•    Specialize in finding solutions to unusual and difficult bonding requests.
•    Lobby legislators for stricter standards and increased safety measures.
•    Support and participate in professional organizations throughout the country.

Most importantly, Accredited takes time every day to find ways to do their jobs better, to provide additional support to their many agents and to make our communities stronger. This opportunity is designed to make military veterans business owners and not merely employees.

According to Accredited, agents who have served in the military can often use their disciplined training for the good of the bail bond industry. Here’s what they have to say:

“The bail bond business is one that requires an individual to be self-governing and self-reliant because it isn’t necessarily a 9-to-5 job. The military provided an excellent training ground for this type of work in that you had to be an independent thinker and goal oriented. You have to be objective and tell yourself to do the job in order to be successful in both fields.” — David Valentine

“When I became a bondsman, I took the moral and ethical responsibility that went with the job. The self-discipline and values I learned in the military helped me be successful as a bondsman. Being a bondsman helps me maintain the credibility of the courts while helping crime victims at the same time by ensuring that a defendant shows up for court. Both the military and the bail bond industry allow me to use my leadership qualities.”  — Dave Mollison

At Accredited, when they say “Agents are Valued Partners,” they mean it. Highly skilled, trustworthy agents are the driving force behind Accredited. That’s why they go the extra mile to provide the tools and resources that agents need to be successful. From exclusive technology to legislative updates to stable backing, agents affiliated with Accredited have the means not only to do their job — but to do it well.

• To learn more about this program, follow the link: Accredited Surety and Casualty Company
   

Any person who has worked or will work for an organization that requires access to restricted information more than likely has or will need a security clearance.

The largest source of individuals with security clearances is the military population. Once this group finishes their military career, the majority pack up their uniform and security clearance to look for a civilian job. There are over 200,000 military personnel transitioning out of the service each year. These separating military members look for employment in fields such as the commercial defense-related fields where they can utilize their expert military training and technical skills. In addition, these jobs generally require background checks due to the sensitive nature of the materials the individual handles on a daily basis – this is where the former military member’s clearance becomes a valuable commodity.

The importance of a security clearance does not stop with defense contractors. The medical, telecommunications, education and financial fields (to name a few) have an increasing number of jobs where company information needs to be guarded and HR managers seek out individuals with current security clearances.

Why is a security clearance so valuable?
Experts project that a security clearance can increase your salary anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000, and in some cases, even more. When employers do not have to invest time and money into a background check and the paperwork that goes with that, the saved money often goes back into the employee’s salary. Former military personnel who have security clearances are very appealing to employers. In addition to the thorough background check that has already been completed, these employees are disciplined, dependable and have strong leadership skills – priceless attributes in today’s market.

What is a security clearance?
Certain federal employees and certain employees in the private sector are required to have security clearances because their job requires them to have access to classified documents. Various other work takes place in secured facilities. The occupant of any such job is said to hold a “sensitive” position, defined as “any position, by virtue of its nature, could bring about a material adverse effect on national security”. At any given time, there are about 3 million people with security clearances. In addition, there are about 1.5 million security clearances in the hands of private contracting or consulting firms. Contractors participate in what is called the industrial security program administered by the Defense Industrial Security Clearance Office (DISCO) which is part of the Joint Information Systems Technology (JIST), a military agency.

One out of every thirty Americans has some sort of security clearance. It has been estimated that one out of every thousand of these can be expected to compromise the secrets they are entrusted with. Some need money, some can be blackmailed, some are disgruntled and want revenge and some are just sloppy. American industry is a prime target for espionage as well as domestic terrorism and white collar crime.

A security clearance is technically a license issued by the head of a department, division or agency of the federal government. The type of security clearance that one can be approved for also depends upon the department, division, or agency involved. For classification purposes, the types of security clearances are:

• Confidential
• Secret
• Top Secret
  • Sensitive Compartmentalized Information (SCI)
  • Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI)

The Confidential security clearance is the easiest to obtain. Whereas other classifications will almost always involve a background check by the Defense Investigative Service (DIS), clearance programs for a confidential classification may be operated by the agencies themselves, like the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Department of Energy (DoE), the Department of State, etc.Secret (sometimes called “Ordinary Secret”) and Top Secret classifications almost always have some amount of military involvement in the clearance process. These types of licenses are typically found in agencies like the CIA or NSA. One of the differences between Secret and Top Secret is how “expansive” the background check is, i.e., how far and deep the investigation goes into your dependents, friends and relatives.

SCI classifications are only cleared for a few people and the background investigation process as well as the continual monitoring is extremely intensive.

The amount of time it takes to receive a security clearance is usually between six months to one year, if all goes well. Rarely, if ever, are temporary clearances granted during the review process.

Types of security clearances:
The scope of investigative work needed to grant a security clearance depends on the level of clearance being requested. There are three basic levels of security classification:

CONFIDENTIAL:
This refers to material, which, if improperly disclosed, could be reasonably expected to cause some measurable damage to the national security. The vast majority of military personnel are given this very basic level of clearance. This level needs to be reinvestigated every fifteen years.*

SECRET:
The unauthorized disclosure of secret information could be expected to cause serious damage to the national security. This level is reinvestigated every ten years.*

TOP SECRET:
Individuals with this clearance have access to information or material that could be expected to cause exceptionally grave damage to the national security if it was released without authorization. This level needs to be reinvestigated every five years.*

* Reinvestigations are more important than the original investigation because those individuals who have held clearances longer are more likely to be working with increasingly critical information.

Who can get a security clearance?
Any person who is employed by an organization that is sending, receiving, or developing information that the government has deemed as important to National security will need to obtain a security clearance.

Currently, there are more than 500,000 background investigations pending for security clearance approval. When an individual is going through the process for clearance, it may take up to a year before a determination is made. This makes a military candidate who already has clearance even more appealing to a hiring company. If the company hires a person who will need to gain a clearance, they may wait over a year before the person is eligible to work on the project for which they were hired. This is a lot of lost time and money to a company. If they can identify a person who has the necessary clearances, such as a candidate with a military background, that person immediately becomes more valuable.

How do you get a security clearance?
There are three main phases to receiving a security clearance:

The first phase is the application process. This involves verification of U.S. citizenship, fingerprinting and completion of the Personnel Security Questionnaire (SF-86).

The second phase involves the actual investigation of your background. Most of the background check is conducted by the Defense Security Service (DSS).

The final phase is the adjudication phase. The results from the investigative phase are reviewed. The information that has been gathered is evaluated based on thirteen factors determined by the Department of Defense (DoD). Some examples of areas they consider are; allegiance to the United States, criminal and personal conduct, and substance abuse or mental disorders. Clearance is granted or denied following this evaluation process.

How long are Security Clearances valid?
A Periodic Reinvestigation (PR) is required every 5 years for a TOP SECRET Clearance, 10 years for a SECRET Clearance or 15 years for a CONFIDENTIAL Clearance. However, civilian and military personnel of DOD can be randomly reinvestigated before they are due for a PR.

A security clearance is a valuable commodity outside of the military. This is because civilian companies who do classified work for the Dept. of Defense (DoD), or a national security related contract, must bear the cost of security clearances for their employees and clearance investigations can cost several thousands of dollars. Because of this, many DoD contractors give hiring preference to ex-military personnel with current clearances. However, you want to do your job-hunting right away, after separation. Once your clearance expires, you cannot simply request that DoD issue a new one or conduct a Periodic Reinvestigation, simply to make your job-hunting prospects easier. To be issued a clearance, or to renew your clearance by DoD, your present duties/assignment, or pending duties/assignment must require such access.

Application Procedures
Once it is determined that a military member requires a Security Clearance because of assignment or job, the individual is instructed to complete a Security Clearance Background Investigation Questionnaire. DoD requires that this form be completed by use of a computer software program, known as ESPQ, instead of the old paper form, the SF-86. You can download the software to use on your home computer (if you reside in the United States).

However, it’s not necessary to download and install the software in order to see what questions are asked in the questionnaire, see ESPQ SF-86 Questionnaire Worksheet (Word.doc file) and SF-86 (PDF File).

When completing the questionnaire, for CONFIDENTIAL and SECRET Clearances, it’s necessary to provide information for the previous five years. For TOP SECRET Clearances, one must provide information for the previous ten years. It’s important to note here that giving false information on a Security Document constitutes a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 101, and Article 107 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ). Under the United States Code, one may be fined as well as imprisoned for a period of five years. Under the UCMJ, the maximum punishment includes reduction to the lowest enlisted grade, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, confinement for a period of five years and a dishonorable discharge.

You may wish to note that page 10 of the SF-86 contains a statement which you sign authorizing release of ANY information about you to Security Clearance Investigators. This means that investigators can access any and all information about you, including sealed records, juvenile records, expunged records and medical records.

Once you complete the ESPQ, the document is sent to the Defense Security Service (DSS) (formerly the Defense Investigative Service (DIS)). DSS is responsible for verifying the information and performing the actual background investigation. The level of investigation depends upon the level of access to be granted.

For CONFIDENTIAL and SECRET clearances:
A National Agency Check (NAC)-A computerized search of investigative files and other records held by federal agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
A Local Agency Check (LAC)-A review of appropriate criminal history records held by local law enforcement agencies, such as police departments or sheriffs, with jurisdiction over the areas where you have resided, gone to school, or worked.

Financial checks – A review of your Credit Record.

For TOP SECRET clearances:

A Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI) is performed which includes all of the above, plus:
Field interviews of references to include coworkers, employers, personal friends, educators, neighbors and other appropriate individuals.

Checks of records held by employers, courts and rental offices.

A subject interview – An interview with you by an investigator.

These inquiries are performed by one or more investigators who work in the geographic area where the information is to be obtained. NACs, however, may be performed electronically from a central location.

The DSS uses two types of investigators to conduct these investigations; DSS Agents and Contractors. DSS obtains investigative support through Contractors, such as MSM Security Services Corp, Omniplex World Services Inc., Management Technology Corp (ManTech), Dyncorp (Information & Enterprise Technology Division) and Government Business Services Group (GBSG).

When conducting field interviews, the investigators normally begin with individuals you list as references in the questionnaire. They then use those references to develop names of additional references, etc., ad infidium. These references will be asked questions about your honesty, reliability and trustworthiness and their opinion on whether you should be given access to classified information or assigned to a sensitive position or position of trust. Your references will also be asked questions about your past and present activities, employment history, education, family background, neighborhood activities and finances. During the investigation the investigator(s) will try to determine if you have had any involvement with drugs, encounters with the police, or problem drinking habits and other facts about your personal history. The investigator(s) will attempt to obtain both favorable and unfavorable information about your background so an adjudicator can make an appropriate determination.

The objective of the subject interview is to obtain a complete picture of you as an individual so that an adjudicator can determine whether you will be able to cope with having access to classified or sensitive information without becoming a security risk. Therefore, the interview will be wide-ranging and cover most aspects of your life. During the subject interview, expect to be questioned about your family background, past experiences, health, use of alcohol or drugs, financial affairs, foreign travel and other pertinent matters.

What determines approval or disapproval?
It’s important to note that Defense Security Service (DSS) does not make any security clearance determinations or recommendations. DSS simply gathers information. Once the information has been verified, and the investigations completed, DSS presents the information to the specific military service’s adjudicator authority (each military service has their own), who determine whether or not to grant the security clearance, using standards set by that particular military service.

It’s impossible to say if any particular thing will result in denial of a security clearance. The adjudicators use the Adjudicator Guidelines to determine whether or not the individual can be trusted with our nation’s secrets. Primarily, adjudicators look for honesty, trustworthiness, character, loyalty, financial responsibility and reliability. On cases that contain significant derogatory information warranting additional action, the adjudicator may draft a request for additional investigation/information, or request psychiatric or alcohol and drug evaluation. Even so, adjudicators are not the final authority. All denials of clearances must be personally reviewed by a branch chief, or higher.

Because of a recent change in the law, there are some factors which will positively result in the denial of a clearance. As a result of the Smith Amendment, the FY01 Defense Authorization Act amended Chapter 49 of Title 10, United States Code, and precluded the initial granting or renewal of a security clearance by (DoD) under the following four specific circumstances:

(1) An individual has been convicted in any court of the U.S. of a crime and sentenced to imprisonment for a term exceeding one year.
(2) An individual is (currently) an unlawful user of, or is addicted to, a controlled substance (as defined in section 102 or the Controlled Substances Act (21U.S.C. 802))
(3) An individual is mentally incompetent, as determined by a mental health professional approved by the DoD
(4) An individual has been discharged or dismissed from the armed forces under dishonorable conditions.
The statute also provides that the Secretary of Defense and the secretary of the military department concerned may authorize an exception to the provisions concerning convictions, dismissals and discharges from the armed force in meritorious cases.

How long does the process take?

It depends on several factors, and the type of investigation. In the past three years, DoD has had a significant backlog of security clearances and reinvestigations pending, most especially for TOP SECRET level access. In general, expect a CONFIDENTIAL or SECRET clearance to take between 1 and 3 months. A TOP SECRET will probably take between 4 and 8 months. However, some individuals have been waiting for the results of their TOP SECRET investigation for more than one year. In general, the more there is to investigate, the longer the investigation will take. Expect the investigation to take longer if you have:

• Lived or worked in several geographic locations or overseas.
• Traveled outside of the United States.
• Relatives who have lived outside of the United States.
• Background information that is difficult to obtain or involves issues that require an expansion of your case.

If your technical training (AIT/Tech School/A-School) requires access to classified information, you may be assigned to do details (such as answering the phone in an office) while waiting for your Security Clearance to be granted. In some cases, you may be authorized to attend non-classified portions of the training while awaiting the results of your security clearance application.

Can I appeal a clearance denial or revocation?
If you are denied a security clearance, or an assignment to a sensitive position or a position of trust, or your current clearance or access is revoked, you have the right to appeal the adjudicative decision. Under such circumstances you will be provided a statement on the reason(s) why you are ineligible for the clearance and the procedures for filing an appeal. If you believe the information gathered about you during the investigation is misleading or inaccurate, you will be given the opportunity to correct or clarify the situation.

DoD maintains a web site which gives a good overview about past Security Clearance Appeal Decisions for DoD contractor personnel.

Are polygraph (lie detector) tests required?
The use of the polygraph for any Department of Defense program is governed by DoD Directive 5210.48 and DoD Regulation 5320.48R.

A polygraph examination is mandatory for employment by or assignment to the DSS and the National Security Agency (NSA) and for assignment (or loan) of DoD personnel to the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA ). It is also mandatory for some SCI and SAP access programs.

Additionally, the polygraph may be used for any other personnel security investigations to resolve serious credible derogatory information and then only with consent. No adverse action may be taken solely on the basis of a polygraph examination that indicates deception, except upon the written finding by the Secretary or Under Secretary of Defense, or a Secretary of one of the military departments, that the classified information in question is of such extreme sensitivity that access under the circumstances poses an unacceptable risk to the national security.

Polygraph examinations may also be used to supplement investigations of federal felonies, of unauthorized disclosure of classified information or of alleged acts of terrorism, or when requested by the subject of a personnel security investigation, for exculpation with respect to allegations arising in the investigation.

The DoD regulation details the exact manner in which the examination must be conducted. No relevant question may be asked during the polygraph examination that has not been reviewed with the person to be examined before the examination, and all questions must have a special relevance to the inquiry. Certain “validating” questions may be asked without prior disclosure to establish a baseline from which the examiners can judge the validity of the answers to the relevant questions. The probing of a person’s thoughts or beliefs, or questions on subjects that are not directly relevant to the investigation, such as religious or political beliefs or beliefs and opinions about racial matters, are prohibited.

The Defense Industry
National security ultimately depends on protecting science and industry, so lots of security clearances are involved with companies working on defense-related projects. It doesn’t matter if the company is holding a government contract or not; any R&D venture needs to be protected. The frequency of companies holding regular government contracts is growing, however. Here’s a top ten list:

Primary Defense Contractors:

1. Boeing
2. General Dynamics
3. General Electric
4. General Motors
5. Grumman
6. Lockheed
7. Martin Marietta
8. McDonnel Douglas
9. Raytheon
10. United Technologies

Expect to see the highest security countermeasures in the above companies. However, there are numerous other companies involved in activities that may need to be protected. The following is a list of the eighteen (18) technology areas of the U.S. that have been the most common targets of espionage:

Militarily Critical Technology List (MCTL):
Aeronautics Systems
Armaments and Energetic Materials
Chemical and Biological Systems
Directed and Kinetic Energy Systems
Electronics
Ground Systems
Guidance, Navigation, and Vehicle Control
Information Systems
Information Warfare
Manufacturing and Fabrication
Marine Systems
Materials
Nuclear Systems
Power Systems
Sensors and Lasers
Signature Control
Space Systems
Weapons Effects and Countermeasures

Security Classification and Code Words

The Intelligence Community operates on the basis of CODE WORDS for just about everything. There is a technical distinction between a code word and a nickname. A code word is usually a single, five-letter word selected from a list contained in a document known as JANAP 299 (Joint Army, Navy, Air Force Publication). A code word always is assigned a classified meaning. A nickname usually consists of two words and is assigned an unclassified meaning.

TOP SECRET UMBRA, for example, indicates that information about the operation with the code word “umbra” is top secret. Employees may have a nickname for this operation like “spoke wheel” which implies that it’s got something to do with transportation, and may or may not remind the employee of the cover story; in this case, the possible use of bicycle tires for something. Often, the nickname implies something the exact opposite of the real operation: SKYBORNE for an underseas operation, e.g., or WATERLOG for an space operation.

Sometimes, four-letter code words are used, like GYRO, for instance. Whenever you see a four letter code word, this usually means that the information it refers to was obtained from intercepted communications by top officials from foreign countries. Other four-letter code words refer to mail openings and information obtained from foreign books.

Classified documents are often labeled with all the associated code words; like TOP SECRET UMBRA GAMMA GYRO SKYBORNE WATERLOG. Each word may have a different security classification requirement. In this case, the employee would have to have the security clearance for each level. A clearance for GAMMA might not suffice for WATERLOG. This has resulted in the commonly-seen whiteout or blackout through certain sentences in reports, because the most classified material has been made unreadable.

See Defense Security Service (DSS), US Army and Department of Defense (DoD) websites.

• Job Seekers who are Veterans: Submit Your Resumes and Find Jobs at www.hireveterans.com
• Employers: Hire Veterans and Post Your Jobs at www.hireveterans.com

Attn Employers!  Find out Why Hiring Veterans Makes Cents

by Capt. Benjamin Jones

There is now doubt that hiring U.S. Veterans makes cents from many standpoints…..below, Veterans Today is proud to list the top 10 list………so here we go: 

1.  Accelerated Learning Curve
Veterans have the proven ability to learn new skills and concepts. In addition, they can enter your workforce with identifiable and transferable skills, proven in real world situations. This background can enhance your organization’s productivity.

2.  Leadership
The military trains people to lead by example as well as through direction, delegation, motivation and inspiration. Veterans understand the practical ways to manage behaviors for results, even in the most trying circumstances. They also know the dynamics of leadership as part of both hierarchical and peer structures. …..    

3.  Teamwork
Veterans understand how genuine teamwork grows out of a responsibility to one’s colleagues. Military duties involve a blend of individual and group productivity. They also necessitate a perception of how groups of all sizes relate to each other and an overarching objective.

4.  Diversity and Inclusion in Action
Veterans have learned to work side by side with individuals regardless of diverse race, gender, geographic origin, ethnic background, religion and economic status as well as mental, physical and attitudinal capabilities. They have the sensitivity to cooperate with many different types of individuals.

5.  Efficient performance under pressure
Veterans understand the rigors of tight schedules and limited resources. They have developed the capacity to know how to accomplish priorities on time, in spite of tremendous stress. They know the critical importance of staying with a task until it is done right.

6.  Respect for procedures
Veterans have gained a unique perspective on the value of accountability. They can grasp their place within an organizational framework, becoming responsible for subordinates’ actions to higher supervisory levels. They know how policies and procedures enable an organization to exist.

7.  Technology and globalization
Because of their experiences in the service, veterans are usually aware of international and technical trends pertinent to business and industry. They can bring the kind of global outlook and technological savvy that all enterprises of any size need to succeed.

8.  Integrity
Veterans know what it means to do “an honest day’s work.” Prospective employers can take advantage of a track record of integrity, often including security clearances. This integrity translates into qualities of sincerity and trustworthiness.

9.  Conscious of health and safety standards
Thanks to extensive training, veterans are aware of health and safety protocols both for themselves and the welfare of others. Individually, they represent a drug-free workforce that is cognizant of maintaining personal health and fitness. On a company level, their awareness and conscientiousness translate into protection of employees, property and materials.

10. Triumph over adversity

In addition to dealing positively with the typical issues of personal maturity, veterans have frequently triumphed over great adversity. They likely have proven their mettle in mission critical situations demanding endurance, stamina and flexibility. They may have overcome personal disabilities through strengths and determination. 

Job Boards for U.S. Veterans Get Net Evaluated

VeteransToday.com puts the Job Sites to the Test

As the veterans community increases from America’s prolonged conflicts around the world, so does its need to find jobs.  As a result, there has been a plethora of job boards launched to meet the new market demand.  Most of the job boards on the net, while noble, are not productive.  They are not actively marketed and designed poorly.  However, there are a handful of professional sites run by world class management that are producing results.  At VeteransToday.com, we wanted to check on these sites and rate them from a net perspective to see how they pan out using independent tests.

We rated the top 7 sites.   Before we present the results,  let’s define a few terms so that we’re all on the same page as we make our analyis and conclusions.  Ok, here we go!

PRICE COMPARISONS

DUNBAR: The Most Trusted Name in Security is Reaching Out to Hire Veterans 

Industry Leader Looking to Employ America’s Best

Since their inception over 80 years ago, Dunbar, one of America’s leading security firms, has been driven to understand their customers and their industries needs and provide them with the best solution that remains affordable for any and all businesses.

In 1923, George W. Dunbar founded New England’s first armored car company, Mercer & Dunbar. In 1956, James L. Dunbar continued the family tradition of serving America’s security needs when he founded Dunbar Armored (formerly named Federal Armored Express). Since then, the Dunbar name and their symbolic Red and Black armored trucks have become synonymous with security.

The tradition continues today with the Dunbar family of companies, made up of six subsidiaries, of specialized service providers that together comprise one of the largest and strongest entities in the security industry. Leveraging off of their history and their employees’ experience in the industry, along with their technological achievements and continued success, Dunbar continues to develop as The Most Trusted Name In Security®.      

To maintain and expand on their leading edge, Dunbar is seeking to hire outstanding U.S. Military Veterans who would like a career in the security industry.  To reach out to you, the Veteran, they’ve joined up with HireVeterans.com, the top-rated job board for Veterans who seek security jobs.

At Dunbar, they design security into every aspect of their products and services by first learning about the needs of customers and their industries and developing customized solutions to meet their specific security needs.  That’s where quality employees come into the mix.

In today’s, fast-paced environment, Dunbar’s secure transportation and cash management solutions are designed to assist in meeting your unique security, cash management and reporting requirements.  Utilizing the most up-to-date technologies, equipment and security systems available for package tracking, information transmission and imaging, reporting and cash processing, Dunbar enables clients to increase organizational productivity and profitability.

Experience is “The Dunbar Difference” featuring an “All American” Company.  Dunbar is a 100% American-owned, family operated company.

Quality Service, Proven Reliability

The Dunbar family has been providing quality service in safeguarding valuables for more than 80 years.  Their reliable, time-tested security and safety procedures coupled with continually updated technologies are designed to protect clients, their customers and their guards during every transaction.

Global Coverage
Through Dunbar International franchisees and network partners, Dunbar provides secure transportation solutions for the movement of vulnerable cargo worldwide.

Successful Growth
They are the largest independently-owned and fastest growing armored transport carrier in the USA.

Customized, Personalized Service
They are large enough to provide the special services clients need and are committed to delivering the personalized service to clients to be the very best in the industry.

Full Service
From armored transportation and cash vault services to Cache$ystem®electronic in-store safes to BankPak deposit bags and banking supplies, Dunbar provides Clients with one stop shopping.  They also provide convenient web-based reporting.

Maximum Security
Secure transportation and state-of-the art cash vault services are their primary business. Dunbar carries comprehensive “All-Risk” and “Terrorism” insurance to protect cash and valuables in their custody and they use the latest technologies to transport, store and account for them.

Convenience
Dunbar provides safe, convenient, flexible services suited to their clients’ specific requirements.  Clients  can rely on Dunbar for quality service by professional – easily identifiable personnel – fully prepared and equipped to meet needs.  Their “All Valuable Shipments” identification cards let a clients employees verify their guard’s identity before a receipt for bank deposit or other valuables.

Professionalism
The time and effort that is spent to recruit high quality personnel like our veterans ensures security and professionalism in service delivery. In addition, Dunbar performs pickup and delivery services using armored vehicles with minimum 2-man crews.

Peace of Mind
When clients choose Dunbar, they have chosen The Most Trusted Name In Security®.  Their reputation for high standards and professionalism is well known throughout the industry.  Dunbar continues to provide leadership for the industry associations that the company helped to found – including both the National Armored Car Association (NACA) and the Independent Armored Car Operators Association (IACOA).

Dunbar is always looking for valuable team members nationwide who can help them further capitalize on their dynamic growth.  They are especially interested in professionals with armored car, security detail, and cash management industry experience.

• To view Dunbar’s most recent job openings and learn more about their employee benefits, click here.
• Click here to see a map of Dunbar Armored branch locations

Dunbar is committed to a policy and practice of non-discrimination in all areas of employment, and the Company fully complies with all applicable federal, state, and local statutes.  Along with its technological achievements and continued success, Dunbar continues to develop as The Most Trusted Name In Security®.

American Sentinel University (www.americansentinel.edu), an accredited online university that provides degree programs and practical education for professionals, is proud to sponsor a webinar on careers in information technology security led by American Sentinel University’s Vice President of Military Programs, Lt. Col. Paul Capicik. The informative webinar will focus on careers in the dynamic world of information technology security for current and past military members. During the webinar Lt. Col. Capicik will draw on his years of experience in the IT field, discussing issues

including:

• Job outlook in the IT security field

• How to break into IT security

• Various fields of expertise and career paths in IT security

There will be a question and answer period immediately following the webinar presentation. The one hour webinar will be held on Tuesday, January 26th, 1 pm CST. Those interested in participating should register at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/297835560.

“Signs are showing an increasing hiring trend in IT security. This webinar will provide an overview of how to prepare to enter or re-enter this exciting and fast paced career field.” said Lt. Col. Capicik Prior to joining American Sentinel University, Lt. Col. Capicik spent over 26 years in the U.S. Air

Force and another 12 years directing a wide variety of IT-related projects, including responsibility for system security as the CIO of a private sector company.

Lt. Col. Capicik’s “Careers in IT” articles series for American Sentinel University details many career issues across a wide array of IT topics. Participants are encouraged to visit the University blog to read the article series and to learn more about American Sentinel’s Information Technology program and career-building tools.

About American Sentinel University

American Sentinel University, www.americansentinel.edu, delivers the competitive advantages of accredited online degree programs focused on the needs of high-growth sectors. Its nursing degree programs are accredited by the Commission for Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The university is accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC). The Accrediting Commission of DETC is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally recognized accrediting agency and is a recognized member of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.