Edgar Plata
Financial Management
Fort Sam Houston, TX
Describe your typical day at work:
There is no such thing as a typical work day as a trainee. You are constantly learning and adding something new to your repertoire each day. However, to begin outlining a regular day, I can say that I arrive at work Monday through Friday at 0730 and usually leave around 1600. Upon arrival, the first thing I do is check my email to see if my supervisor has assigned me any projects/duties to complete. During the first 6 months, I successfully completed all online training while gaining hands-on experience working in Unit Funds, Payroll, and with the CYS budget. I am in the beginning of the 2nd quarter of my training and have been offered the opportunity to work with Internal Control. Additionally, I have performed various Cost-Analyses for Marketing to determine revenue loss and gain. When I have some downtime, I read and review the Army Regulations 215-1; this book is the key to your success.
List some of your responsibilities:
- Complete OJT Manual
- Income Statement Reconciliation
- Internal Controls
- Unit Funds
- UFM Budget
- Update Executive Report
- Process and Review TBA’s
- Payroll
What do you like best about your job?
The external and internal customers make this job much more than worthwhile. Financial Management plays a vital role in the FMWRC world, in that they provide financial support for all of the programs within FMWRC. People all around the base are appreciative of the programs and activities we provide. This gives me a sense of accomplishment which puts a huge smile on my face daily. Unlike other programs, financial management tends to stay in the background, so it’s hard to see results immediately. However, I was privileged enough to work with the Officers’ Spouses' Club at our annual Holiday Bazaar, where I was able to talk and experience firsthand how important these activities are for our Soldiers and their Families.
What training have you attended while in this position?
- Army Family Team Building- Level 1
- FMWRC Orientation Course
- FMWRC Basic Management Course
- NAF Contracting Basic Course
- FMWRC Applied Financial Planning-Break Even Analysis
- FMWRC Applied Financial Planning- Forecasting
- FMWRC Applied Financial Planning- Retail Sales
- FMWRC Applied Financial Planning- Income Statement Analysis
- Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH)
- Ethics Training
- Standard First Aid/Basic CPR
- Army Subsistence Abuse Program (ASAP)
- AT Level 1 Awareness Training
- Effective Army Writing
- Supervisor Development Course
- Action Officer Development Course
- Access Online
- SMIRF Training
- FMBS Training
- IMETS Training
- 2010 FMWRC Symposium –Louisville, KY
What types of decisions do you make in your current position?
I was surprised to see how quickly I was put in a position to assist in making a permanent decision. While working with Marketing and the Banner/Sign Shop, I was appointed by our Chief to compose a Cost-Analysis calculation to see whether or not it would be the best interest of FWMR to make the Banner/Sign Shop a CAT C location. Realistically, it will take some time for me to become one of the sole decision makers; however, I believe that my work ethic and initiative will one day place me in a position, where I will be able to make decisions.
What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them?
Fortunately, I have not encountered many problems in my first 6 months as a trainee. The FWMR family here at Joint Base Lewis-MChrod has treated me with the utmost respect and like any other employee, sometimes even better. They admire my ambition and drive to one day be in their position and have been nothing but helpful and supportive of me achieving that goal one day. One slight problem that many trainees may find themselves confronted with is managing their time wisely. Since there is so much to do, one can get a bit overwhelmed at times which can make you lose focus. To combat this, my supervisor and I make sure that she knows what I am currently working on and lets me know what to prioritize, making it easier for me to schedule my time. I am also very eager to learn, so at times I find myself trying to do too much. It is important to know that as a trainee we have 24 months to learn the importance of our area; however, we are going to be learning something new every day, so it essential not to rush into complex situations.
What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this?
Of course it is easy for me to say that I want to be a Chief/Director in the near future. However, I need to be realistic and know that it can be a lengthy process before I have gained all the knowledge and experience to be placed in such a high position. Therefore, the next likely step for me is to become a Budget Analyst. Once I can master Budget Analyst and the duties that accompany it, I am confident that I will be prepared to be a Chief/Director of Finance.
Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development?
My undergraduate degree is in Economics and I earned a Masters in Public Administration, so finally I am able to apply what I learned in school to my career which makes my everyday life at the office less stressful. This program has opened various doors for me to one day become a leader in the FWMR world.
Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations?
Without a doubt, the Trainee Program has exceeded my expectations. Other than being able to take various courses online and face-to-face courses that will benefit my career and broaden my horizon; I have been able to attend key meetings and conferences in which I can voice my opinion on subject matters. At times, it feels a bit surreal to know that one day you will be conducting meetings and conferences where there will be a trainee looking up to you and inspiring your view and position.
What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program?
Sign up! I highly encourage recent college graduates to sign up for this program. The Trainee Program not only prepares you to one day become a leader of FMWRC, but also gives you the chance to explore other countries and cultures. It isn’t everyday that you have an opportunity like the Trainee Program. The satisfaction and the appreciation that you receive not only from the military world, but from different people that you meet during your career path is invaluable.
Samantha Gregory
Outdoor Recreation Management Traine
Fort Campbell, KY
Describe your typical day at work:
My favorite part about working in the field of Outdoor Recreation is that there is never a typical day at work! Every day offers exciting, new adventures and I am privileged to be a part of this team. Generally, I begin work around 0800 by reviewing and responding to my email. At any point during the day, I may be assisting with a variety of activities such as checking in DEER, assisting with an adventure race, attending various meetings, or facilitating the challenge course. If I have any down time, I typically use those moments to work on professional development training.
List some of your responsibilities:
- Complete training manual
- Attend training related conferences
- Complete tasks and projects assigned by my trainer
- Administrative duties such as weekly Sit Rep reports, schedules, and answer phones
- Act as manager on duty
- Assist with interviewing, hiring, and training of new employees
- Assist with initial counseling for new employees
- Attend weekly meetings and IPR’s
- Write articles for the MWR Life magazine
- Submit marketing requests for upcoming events and required materials
- Assist with activities such as Warrior Adventure Quest and lead Adventure Trips
- Plan special events and coordinate new avenues for programming
- Assist with daily operations at the Hunting and Fishing facility and/or Riding Stables
- Work on projects to improve current operations
What do you like best about your job?
The best part about my job is that it offers various opportunities that you may never experience at a typical job in this field and I work with some of the greatest people I have ever met. As a management trainee, I get the chance to travel, gain more knowledge and experience through professional development, and network with people all around the world. In addition to learning about Outdoor Recreation, I am able to work with multiple FMWRC programs at my local Garrison. This places me in a unique position to become cross-trained in several program areas, which helps build a well-rounded resume for future career opportunities. It also provides wide exposure to the community of Soldiers and Families we serve every day.
What training have you attended while in this position?
- New Employee Orientation
- FMWRC Orientation Course
- FMWRC Basic Management Course
- NAF Contracting Course
- Army Family Team Building I
- Effective Army Writing
- Action Officer Development Course
- Supervisor Development Course
- Outdoor Recreation Programmer’s Training Course
- 2009 AORE Conference
- 2010 Army Soldier Family Action Plan Symposium
- Alpine Towers International Level I Certification Training
- Programming and Special Events Course
- Standard First Aid/Basic CPR
- Ethics Training
- AT(Anti-Terrorism) Level One Awareness Training
- U.S. Constitution Day Course
- Army Traffic Safety Accident Avoidance Course
- Applied Financial Planning-Break Even Analysis Course
- Applied Financial Planning-Forecasting
- Applied Financial Planning-Retail Sales
- Applied Financial Planning-Income Statement Analysis
- No FEAR Act Training
- OPSEC-SADEA
- DoD Information Assurance Awareness
- G3 Computer Security Training
- Thumb Drive Awareness
- Portable Electronic Devices and Removable Storage Media
- Anti-Phishing
- Personally Identifiable Information
- Safe Home Computing
What types of decisions do you make in your current position?
As an Outdoor Recreation Management Trainee, I have the opportunity to assist with a wide variety of decisions. While acting as manager on duty, I am typically the go-to person for final decisions relating to customer questions and concerns. Additionally, I assist with decisions related to personnel actions, policies, and procedures. I also have the chance to share thoughts and ideas relating to programming, special events, and employee recognition.
What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them?
Problems occur at all levels of any organization, but the important thing to remember is how you handle the challenge. The biggest problem I have as a management trainee is time management. It can be difficult to balance training requirements and the tasks assigned by my trainer. It is also difficult to be totally immersed in activities at the Garrison level when the program requires a significant amount of travel, online training, and observation of specific administrative tasks. My personal solution for this problem is to keep a detailed calendar of events, prioritize my workload, and focus on one task at a time.
What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this?
Once I have completed the Management Trainee Program, I look forward to the opportunity to work as an Outdoor Recreation Facility or Program Manager. My long-term goal is to become Chief of the Recreation Division and eventually Director of FMWRC. The most challenging part of this transition will be learning how processes occur at other installations and working with different programs that I may not have been exposed to during my training.
Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development?
Yes, the Management Trainee Program has been extremely beneficial in many ways. It is designed to set you up for success based on the training and requirements to complete the program. In addition, the LDAP (Leader Development Assignment Program) component of the program provides various opportunities for working at installations around the world and upward mobility in leadership positions. Also, as a management trainee, there is the expectation that you will be a great addition to any installation, based on the precedent set by former management trainees.
Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations?
Absolutely!! Being a new member of the Army MWR family, I had no idea what to expect from the Management Trainee Program. I knew there was the potential for new and exciting adventures, but this program has far exceeded any expectations I could have imagined. The Management Trainee Program is the best way to transition into a life-long career through on-the-job training. I am confident that once I have completed the program, I will be fully capable of transitioning into any management position and be successful as a leader in that organization. I could not be more proud to represent Fort Campbell as a management trainee and am convinced I made the right decision to be a part of the FMWRC family.
What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program?
Start filling out your application now and practice patience. The application process can be timely and selection is stringent, but it is definitely worth your time and effort. The Management Trainee Program is an incredible opportunity for anyone who has a desire to travel, advance in a career they love, and give back to the Soldiers and their Families who give so much for us. This is an experience of a lifetime, so apply TODAY!
Sarahjane Phillips
Marketing Management Trainee
Kaiserslautern, Germany
Describe your typical day at work:
My job, on a day-to-day basis is anything but typical. With Marketing, you never know what to expect. My day will generally start at 8 a.m. and end around 4:30p.m. I take a half hour lunch and this is something I must stress is important, if I can offer any wisdom, and tell you how it has helped my own well being; is that I leave the office. I will go take a walk if the weather is nice, or go to the gym, or even something as simple as go to the commissary. If I stay in the building, my colleagues and I will go into another room and force ourselves to take a break. Some of the best planning takes place over food and my brain requires some fiesta time to come back refreshed.
I have several duties I perform throughout the week that I have scheduled into daily tasks. Some of these are, updating our website, creating a full page spread for our Garrison newspaper, create E-flyers, update our community briefs, update our slide shows, update our scrolling banners, and prepare weekly reviews. These are just a few of the things I do in my office. I also participate in briefing the community on upcoming events by going on our local radio and presenting at our weekly newcomers orientation. My office is responsible for obtaining commercial sponsorship for events and we do a lot of partnering with the local community. I will spend time each day going over the 47 programs our office is responsible for and ensuring that we are not only meeting our goals, but exceeding promises by delivering the best marketing to promote fun activities for our Soldiers and Families in the military community. I feel my job is so important, especially being in Germany, because our community is isolated and MWR is the family and home in place of America for so many people. The happiness and morale of the community, essentially, is hinged on my success or failure at my job and so I take it very seriously.
List some of your responsibilities:
- Work towards completing all the material in my training manual
- Make sure I finish all the online training, classroom training and attend conferences
- Visit facilities to make sure our events are up to date and marketed correctly
- Participate in IPR meetings for upcoming events and programs
- Graphic Design for flyers, posters and web banners
- Make sure our website is accurate and up to date
- Manage and process all the work orders for marketing
- Create information briefs for distribution in the newspapers and radio
- Work with partners in the community to collaborate on events and programming
- Commercial sponsorship and advertising
What do you like best about your job?
The best part about my job is the people I work with. I LOVE MWR because unlike the corporate workforce, there really is a bond and communion between those involved with the military. This is not a job that is glamorous. This isn’t a profession you join to get recognition and material reward. Ours is the same path as the soldier we serve. I do this job for the “heart” reward. At the end of the day, my payout is seeing people smile, and knowing that my job helped make that possible. I feel there is self sacrifice involved, but it’s a mantel I carry with pride. I like that I am able to use my skills with art and combine my love of creating and planning every single day.
What training have you attended while in this position?
- FMWRC Orientation Course
- FMWRC Basic Management Course
- Ethics Training
- EEO/ Posh Training
- AT(Anti-Terrorism) Level One Awareness Training
- Army Traffic Safety Course
- Applied Financial Planning-Break Even Analysis Course
- Applied Financial Planning-Forecasting
- Applied Financial Planning-Retail Sales
- Applied Financial Planning-Income Statement Analysis
- Information Assurance
- G3 Computer Security Training
- Thumb Drive Awareness
- Office 2007 and SharePoint Integration for Knowledge Workers: levels I, II, and III
- Basic NAF Contracting
- Commercial Sponsorship
- Soldier Family Action Plan Training Symposium: FMWRC FY10- Headquarters
- Enrolled – Foundations of Marketing Course
- Enrolled – Programming and Special Events
What types of decisions do you make in your current position?
All day long I am responsible for decisions that impact the success of an event or program. I have to decide what will get marketed where. For example, would I want to put a certain program in the newspaper? Would I want to air it on the radio? Would I want a TV spot through AFN? Would I want a web announcement? I will go to planning meetings and work with the directors and managers to discuss the best way to generate an interest in their product or service.
What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them?
Any new job takes time to navigate the waters and assert oneself as an employee there. One of the issues I have had to deal with is breaking the stereotype that I am an “intern”. I think just by exhibiting my professionalism and hard work, I am able to promote my own existence as a future leader and manager. I think sometimes people see our LDAP rotation as an intern program, not the career tracked management program it is. Partly, that is just because of a lack of knowledge so I always use this an opportunity to promote the Management Trainee Program, rather than a defensive position. It’s not anything to take personally or scoff at. I have learned to turn sometimes difficult situations and conversations into great opportunities.
What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this?
Well, after graduation from the program I will move over to the LDAP program. I think some of the challenges I face are personal uncertainty. I have to trust MWR to send me to the best place to utilize the skills I have learned and not knowing where that might be is always a bit scary. I see myself being a marketing manager at a Garrison somewhere in the next two or three years and having the challenge and joy of being successful and drawing from all the experience I have learned through the management trainee program.
Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development?
This program is incredible. Not only am I getting on the job training and hands on experience, I am getting to travel all over and attend conferences and courses. I feel more rounded and knowledgeable from this experience than any other program I have been a part of. The personal and professional journey that I am on with MWR is one that I will be able to use for the rest of my life. The candor and values associated with working for the military exude a pride for oneself and country that I don’t believe can be found anywhere else to such a deep degree.
Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations?
I believe so. Now that I am working at Kaiserslautern, the Management Trainee Program has exceeded my expectations. The people here know that the success and continuity of MWR depends on the trainees out in the field today so my trainer and manager take time to make sure I am putting this program first and getting the training I need. We will grow and become the future leaders, and eventually, mentors to those that follow us. The 2 years isn’t just about learning the functions of a job. I think there is a deeper understanding that comes with being in the position of a management trainee; we have a heavy weight on our shoulders to know that someday the charge of carrying on will be our responsibility. What I have learned so far has really helped me feel motivated and prepared to take on that mantle.
What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program?
My advice to those thinking about signing up for the program would be this: Do it! You will never regret it. There is so much personal growth to be found, not only in yourself internally, but you would be surprised how much you can help others as well. There is nothing more gratifying than doing a job you love, and seeing the direct effects every day. How many people get to see the end result of all their hard work? Not many. But with MWR, you SEE how your work and attitude has influenced so many lives. At the end of the day, you want to make sure you had fun and this is a place where every day you will have fun.
My advice to those who have signed up and are just getting ready to start their first assignment would be this: keep an open line of communication, not just with FMWRC headquarters, but your fellow trainees. Here in Germany, the trainee’s here are my family and we rely on each other for ideas and motivation. Never be afraid to ask questions, especially if you don’t know what an acronym stands for. There is no shame in not knowing the answer; the only shame lies in not asking the questions. To be a great leader, you have to learn and be open minded to new possibilities. Bring all your talents to the table and don’t be afraid to speak up. MWR is looking for leaders so draw upon your courage and be a leader. Make yourself noticed. At conferences and trainings, ALWAYS have a handshake and a business card ready. MWR is a family and you want to take every opportunity to network. Most importantly, have fun! This is a job that is rewarding but it is also so much fun and never lose sight of that.
Mary Kane
Child, Youth, and School Services Management Trainee
Stuttgart, Germany
Describe your typical day at work:
There is never a typical day of work in Child, Youth, and School Services. On any given day, I could be working directly with staff in a facility, or I may be helping facilitate a CYS Services training, providing new employee or new parent orientations, or receiving training myself. My day usually begins between 0800 and 1000 depending on the facility that I have been assigned to. My day begins with an outline of required to-do tasks. I try to organize and prioritize my day by importance, however, I leave time open for the unexpected. The unexpected happens regularly and is what makes my position both challenging, and enjoyable.
As managers of FMWRC we focus on the Soldiers, their Families and our civilian workforce, providing avenues to care for the children and youth, so the soldiers may focus on their job. My day at work includes working in various facilities to include the child development, school age, and youth centers. We are responsible for providing a comfortable learning environment with enjoyable programs while ensuring that the facility is run efficiently and well. Then I work on special projects like Month of the Military Child, or special FMWRC upcoming events. When I have extra time I work on my professional development training.
List some of your responsibilities:
- Assist management with staffing
- Give management insight and recommendations about staff and their facility
- Act as a direct care giver in facilities
- Facilitate various trainings for the youth
- Program implementation
- Serve on various CYS Services committees that aid in coming up with new activities for the youth in our garrison
- Complete the on-the-job training manual
- Other duties as assigned by my trainer
- Complete training Manual.
- Accomplish training related projects and conferences.
- Administrative duties such as: Employee records and payroll.
- Inspect facilities
- Monitor the health and safety codes.
- Assist with the interview, hiring and training of new employees.
- Assist with outreach programming and marketing within the facilities and schools.
- Provide new parent orientations, and assist in the newcomer in-processing.
- Assisting with writing new documents such as the Employee Handbook, and Training Manual.
What do you like best about your job?
The best part of my job is that it allows me to work all the different facilities as well as with the administrative workforce. I am gaining knowledge and experience through this position that will help me as I progress throughout my career. Working one on one with each manager gives me their unique views and perspectives in running a quality program for the Soldier’s children and youth. Working at this installation gives me the opportunity to interact with all the components of FMWRC Garrison areas.
What training have you attended while in this position?
What types of decisions do you make in your current position?
I have made suggestions to management and trainers regarding problems, inspections, and programming within the facilities. I have also assisted in the scheduling, and resolving of management/ employee conflicts. I have also made decisions to help implement suggestions offered by the staff, youth and their families.
What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them?
Communication is very important. I believe the greatest challenge is making sure I am keeping up with the training requirements for the Management Trainee Program, as well as trying to learn through the hands on training. There are many trainings that I attend, and the rotation varies at times so it is important that I not only keep track of where I am supposed to be and what I am doing, but make sure I communicate that to my trainer and supervisor. It takes a lot of prioritizing and finding a balance to adjust, but it is a necessary skill to have to achieve goals, and be a supportive part of the team. I have attempted to solve this by communicating during weekly meetings with my trainer and monthly meetings with mentor. We discuss: placement schedule for upcoming months, any problems, concerns, suggestions, various trainings to attend, my experience at various facilities: what went well, what did not, what did I learn, and anything that I should have learned and may have not learned, I will be going back to the facility to learn, and what is expected for me to learn when I go to various facilities. Every day I also keep a planner, and write what I did that day, to help keep me on task, organized, and meeting deadlines.
What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this?
My next likely step will be as an Outreach Services Director. The Child, Youth, and School Services function of the Management Trainee Program has prepared me for this position. I believe every position will have its own challenges, but I believe being a management trainee has also provided me with many opportunities in facing and moving past them. With that said, the challenges are only to better my growth and progress, its part of working with a great team and overall a great mission.
Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development?
The NAF Management Trainee Program combines my previous educational knowledge and experience , added tons of training that I couldn’t I couldn’t have received anywhere else, to on-the-job experience in the field of Child, Youth, and School Services. Having this opportunity to learn as I work is very beneficial to anyone’s career; I am so pleased to have this opportunity. I feel that I am better prepared in terms of knowledge, experience, and have the competence and confidence to work in any aspect of child and youth services that I choose to pursue.
Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations?
The Management Trainee Program has truly set my career path up for success. I was able to cross-train and learn in areas I may not have been able to receive otherwise. This program has challenged and impacted me both professionally and personally. The trainers, supervisors, and locations selected have played a great role in my growth and I am truly thankful for their effort in helping me accomplish our career goals and aspirations. An opportunity like this doesn’t come often, and I am not taking it lightly. To be chosen for this position out of 1200 applicants is a chance of a lifetime and I plan on taking full advantage of the doors that have opened for me.
What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program?
If you would like the opportunity for advanced career progression, on-hands training with the help of wonderful trainers and staff, attend trainings and conferences set to help your growth, and numerous opportunities to learn and become a more experienced manager in your particular field, this is the program for you. If you are interested in working with the military community and willing to be assigned anywhere in the world, provided with great benefits, receive diverse knowledge from MWR professionals within your area, and a chance to learn more about the Army and Army MWR, then this is the program for you. If you’re looking for a challenge, willing to give 100%, and ready to step into a program that will impact and benefit you both professionally and personally then the management trainee program is for you. APPLY TODAY!!!
Danielle Oldham
Developmental Chef Trainee
Ft. Hood, TX
Describe your typical day at work:
I have been working extensively in the kitchen at Club Hood, doing anything and everything to help our functions and catered events run smoothly. I will come in at six in the morning to prepare the lunch line, or at one in the afternoon to help with a catered dinner. We have a new lunch menu every month so learning our recipes and our catering menu has kept me busy! When I have some time I work on things besides food preparation: online training, learning our food storage system, schedule making, etc. I will soon be heading out of the kitchen to work with our banqueting department and eventually all areas of Club Hood.
List some of your responsibilities:
- Continue online training
- Work through my training manual
- Attend continuing education classes / conferences as applicable
- Accomplish initiatives as defined at Catersource 2010:
- Develop a standard operating procedure for the kitchen
- Compile all recipes into one easy to access location
- Start informal training sessions with kitchen staff
- Work with CYS to develop a youth “Iron Chef” competition
- Help with all food operations in the kitchen
- Develop new menu items for lunch service or catered events
- Attend manager meetings to discuss revenue, any issues
- Costing menu ideas
What do you like best about your job?
The people I work with every day. Since I am new to the Army world I have learned so much about the Army way of doing food and beverage, which differs substantially from non-military food and beverage operations. Not only are the people I work with on a day to day basis great, but I enjoy talking to the soldiers we are serving and asking them what they like to eat and what they would like to see in the future. Everyone loves a good meal and it's been very rewarding knowing that I am working for a cause bigger than myself, however I can contribute.
What training have you attended while in this position?
- FMWRC Orientation Course
- FMWRC Basic Management Course
- SFAP Training Symposium 2010
- Catersource 2010
- Food Trak Boot Camp
- FMWRC Applied Financial Planning -Break Even Analysis
- EEO/ Posh Training
- ServSafe Food Sanitation
- ServSave Alcohol
- AT(Anti-Terrorism) Level One Awareness Training
- FMWRC Applied Financial Planning - Forecasting
- FMWRC Income Statement Analysis
- FMWRC Retail Sales Accountability
- Basic NAF Contracting
- Information Assurance
- G3 Computer Security Training
- Thumb Drive Awareness
- Portable electronic device
- Anti-Phishing
- PII
- Safe home computing
What types of decisions do you make in your current position?
So far I have had the opportunity to make decisions in the kitchen pertaining to new menu items, recipe creation, costing functions, and organizing catered events to make sure they run smoothly. In the future I have several initiatives I will be working on with the help of the head chef and my trainer. No matter what I do at Club Hood I have their support and in the future as I move out of the kitchen and into different areas of the club I will have the opportunity to make even more decisions.
What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them?
I sometimes find myself unsure of exactly what role I play at Club Hood, and how much authority I have in the kitchen. I am a management trainee, and that encompasses both management and training! I have found that whenever I am uncertain about what to say or do in a given situation, speaking with my trainer or our Business Operations Director clears up the situation. They are always ready to hear any ideas, suggestions, or comments I may have. The staff I work with in the kitchen has been very courteous and professional to me whenever I take the lead in something and I find that the respect is mutual.
What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this?
After I complete my training I will have the opportunity to be a chef in my own right, which has been a career goal for me ever since I first contemplated culinary school 5 years ago. I would love the opportunity to work in a variety of kitchen all over the world, as I love to travel, meet new people, and learn new things. Eventually I see myself teaching in some capacity, perhaps at MWR Academy – my father was an elementary school teacher and I have always considered teaching a rewarding and challenging thing to do.
Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development?
Absolutely. Before I accepted this position I was working for a local, small catering company in my hometown; it was a good job but I did not have much potential for future growth or opportunities outside my community. The NAF Management Trainee Program changed all of that. First I was sent to Germany for four months as Phase 1 of my training, then I got the opportunity to move to Ft. Hood Texas to continue learning and developing my responsibilities. I've also been able to attend exciting conferences and do even more learning online. I really feel like I now have a career I can blossom into, and a goal in serving our soldiers I can be proud of.
Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations?
Being at Ft. Hood gives me the opportunity to delve right into the action at the biggest installation in the United States. I have learned much about the Army food and beverage system already, but there is so much more to learn. My trainer is very knowledgeable and makes a real effort to make every interaction a learning experience for me. Having the opportunities that I have had to learn my job from so many angles: on the job training, online courses, and conferences, makes me feel like a well-rounded individual. And I have an entire network of support behind me from all the wonderful MWR people I work with.
What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program?
Do it! If you have a passion for want you want to do, have drive and initiative, and are willing to work hard, you couldn't find a better cause than serving our Army Soldiers and Families. Not coming from a military background I continue to be amazed and encouraged by the passion I see in all my coworkers for the services they are providing our troops. I now belong to a real community of dedicated, caring people and I know I will continue to be supported and encouraged as I grow my career with MWR and make a difference in my own way,
Anthony Way
Human Resources Management Trainee
Fort Hood, TX
Describe your typical day at work:
I leave my home each morning at “O dark thirty” maneuvering my way through the heavily condensed traffic, fighting road rage symptoms, before finally entering the 79th Street gate at “The Great Place” known as Fort Hood, Texas (Phantom Warrior) no later than 7:30 am. A typical morning begins with exchanging the greeting of the day to my co-workers and logging onto my computer to check my e-mail for assignments. I go through my desk (in-box) and check pending files to ensure I’ve completed all previous assignments and begin working the new ones. The order of the day often starts with calls from management and customers pertaining to HR matters. Many of my activities consist of seasonal employment and continuous job vacancies making recruitment and staffing a logical place to begin. I build packets for new hires; contact applicants to make job offers; discuss on-going situations with my HR Specialists pertaining to pay settings, pay adjustments, conversion of employment, and other business processes for current and new employees that impact the organization’s mission; receive Electronic Request for Personnel Actions (ERPA) from my Trainer via DCPDS system; build and post job vacancy announcements; receive and screen applications; create referral lists and send to selecting officials; conduct extensive research of regulations and policies for problem-solving issues; review and complete on-line courses from the FMWRC Academy website; perform intense studies of the methods, employee options, and procedures used for administering NAF Benefits and occasionally sit in on management and employee relations (MER) cases.
List some of your responsibilities:
- Build job vacancy announcements
- Build positions for new hires
- Process various personnel actions
- Determine Service Compensation Dates
- In Process New Hires
- Create Referral List
- Make Job Offers
- Construct Official Personnel Files
- Screen Applications & Determine Eligibility for Hire
- Forward Recruitment RPAs to Career Referral Program (CHRA)
What do you like best about your job?
The camaraderie and team-building that exist amongst co-workers; building relationships with customers; job satisfaction for completing employee actions; experiencing the different functions of NAF Human Resources; providing accurate information to customers and manager to make informed decisions; and observing the final outcome of my daily mission.
What training have you attended while in this position:
- Army Family Team Building (Level 1)
- FMWRC Orientation Course
- Basic Management Course
- Nonappropriated Fund Contraction Course
- Applied Financial Planning
- POSH Training
- DOD Information Assurance Awareness
- Suicide Prevention Training (I & II)
- U.S. Constitution Day Course
- EEO Professional Development Seminar
- EEO American with Disability Acts (Reasonable Accomodations)
- AW2 Symposium (Wounded Warriors)
- NAF Basic HR Admin Course
- Labor Relations Management Course
What type of decisions do you make in your current position?
In my current position as a Human Resources Management Trainee I make recommendations and provide useful information and advice to my co-workers, trainer, and managers to assist in making informed decisions.
What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them:
I have encountered a few situations with NAF pay policies, pay settings, promotions and voluntary demotions. The governing regulation AR 215-3 doesn’t cover the” how to” portion of the pay processes and how to determine the final outcome for pay setting in certain situations. I cannot find or obtain any additional written policies on how to carry out the particular processes. What I’ve done is provided written concerns and recommendations that address the issues that I’ve encountered to help assist me by providing clear guidance and a knowledgeable point of contact for NAF Pay Policies. My understanding is that regulations and policies are currently under review and revision which could provide solutions to many of my concerns.
What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this?
The next step in my career path is my reassignment to a permanent duty station in a newly assigned position, both to be determined. The only known challenges are, (1) the relocation process; (2) reception and integration at my new unit, and (3) getting through the learning curve in performing my duties.
Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career?
Most definitely! My previous Human Resources experience included only state employment and military practices but to experience the NAF/CPAC is added value to my career progression.
Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations?
My expectations are high and I anticipate that the Management Trainee Program will exceed my expectations but I’m only half way through the program. There’s much to be desired and accomplished and I’m definitely up to the challenge. I think that the outcome of my personal successes in this program depends on what and how much I’m willing to invest in it.
What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program?
My advice would be to ask plenty of questions to see if your future plans align with the Management Trainee Program. Plan your move and keep an open mind. It’s always helpful to contact someone who has finished the program and is willing to share his or her experience. Be flexible, welcome change and this could be the best decision you make in your “business” life.
Robert Guerrant
Developmental Chef, Management Trainee
Fort Bragg, North Carolina
Describe your typical day at work:
One of the things that I love about working in the food and beverage industry is there are not any really typical days. One day I am helping out with a four hundred person breakfast, the next day, I am working with an eighty person retirement ceremony. Also, working as a Developmental Chef for Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation, I am not just working at one facility; I am being cross trained, and getting the opportunity to experience numerous food and beverage outlets. That is one of the great things about the food and beverage industry; there is so much to do on a daily basis. Then there are days that I am in front of the computer, answering emails, and catching up on the online training courses. There is so much to do and learn while working in the food and beverage field.
List some of your responsibilities:
- Adhere to the on the job training manual.
- Provide feedback to help improve the quality of the training.
- Attend related conferences and classes for our training.
- Inspect facilities and insure the quality is satisfactory.
- Enforce sanitation and safety codes, both civilian and military.
- Comply with the local liquor regulations and laws.
- Evaluate quality and consistency of food production.
- Accurately forecast banquets and events to reduce waste and over production.
- Control food cost and waste.
- Help implement a new Catering program.
- Create a relationship with vendors and suppliers.
- Receive and check the qualities of deliveries.
- Make arrangements for equipment maintenance and repair as needed.
- Research and develop menu items and recipes.
- Assist at marketing and membership meetings.
What do you like best about your job?
One of the things that I like best about my job is being exposed to different facilities, learning how the different places operate, and working with different managers, I’m able to see how each of them handles their own challenges. Another thing that I like about my job is the customers. Not many people can say that they like the customers that they serve in the food and beverage industry. But once you see the Soldiers and Families that use your facility and appreciate what you’re doing for them, it makes your job easier.
What training have you attended while in this position?
- FMWRC Orientation Course
- Army Family Team Building I
- ServSafe Food Sanitation
- ServSave Alcohol
- AT(Anti-Terrorism) Level One Awareness Training
- Army Substance Abuse program
- Catersource
- Food Trak Boot Camp Training
- Army Catering Training
- OPSEC-SADEA
- Introduction to Management Controls
- Management Control Process-2
- Writing a Material Weakness
- Personally Identifiable Info 2.0
- Information Assurance
- G3 Computer Security Training
- Thumb Drive Awareness
- Portable electronic device
- Anti-Phishing
- Safe home computing
- New employee orientation
What types of decisions do you make in your current position?
While working as a Developmental Chef, I have been given the opportunity to make decisions regarding day to day production, the facilities, and new programs. Although, all final decisions are made by my Trainer, the General Manager of the club, or the Business Operations Officer.
What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them?
One of the first obstacles that I found as a Developmental Chef was all of the training and information that is given to you. The first phase of the program, training at the AFRC plus the online courses is really extensive, but I’ve learned time management is a must. Being task oriented, and organized is very important in this business. Another challenge that I came across was the gap between the “new generation” and the “old generation.” Being able to work with them and share the knowledge that I have is a good thing for both of us, and they are willing to learn.
What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this?
The next step in my career is to first and foremost, finish with the training of the Developmental Chef Program. Spend a couple years within the ranks of the FMWRC club facilities and then ultimately advance to become an Executive Chef/Club Manager, and possibly the Food and Beverage Director. Since the Food and Beverage industry is so vast and always expanding, there is so much room for growth and advancement.
Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development?
Absolutely! With the short time in the Developmental Chef program, I’ve learned a lot about how the Army club system works, including a lot of the front of the house procedures. This program not only gives you the “on-the-job” training, but it gives you classroom experience and tools that will help you throughout your whole career. There is a lot of good information that is available at your fingertips, you just have to go out there and get it.
Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations?
The NAF Management Trainee Program has met my expectations. Being one of the first Developmental Chefs, this program is always changing. Given the opportunity to receive “on-the-job” training, as well as classroom training, and attend numerous conferences that are related to our development, you can’t find that anywhere else. As we proceed, the Developmental Chef Program will exceed my expectations.
What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program?
Apply today!! The NAF Management Trainee Programs gives you the opportunity that no other company in the civilian sector can offer you. This program offers you great benefits, progressive education, professional networking, ability to travel around the world and the chance to work for a “family.” This program will put you on the fast track to becoming a complete manager for the military community and their families. Take advantage of this opportunity as quickly as possible. We are, “Serving those who serve.”