SOLDIER FOR LIFE The US Army Transportation School’s Workforce Credentialing Programs
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oday the Army projects its combat power to locations throughout the world using a joint deployment process in all environments utilizing multiple modes of transportation. This requires detailed & timely planning, accurate documentation and data provision, visibility throughout the process, immediate and rapid response, the simultaneous execution of multiple actions, an in-depth knowledge of regional nodes and regulatory guidelines, and immense personal courage and sacrifice; all hallmarks of military logisticians and skills that are sought-after in commercial transportation environments. Throughout their careers, military professionals strive to learn new skills and de6 |
Defense Transportation Journal
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velop their abilities. The US Army’s Soldier for Life (SFL) program is designed to enable soldiers, veterans, and their families to leave military service “career ready,” and find an established network of enablers connecting them with the employment, education, and healthcare support required to successfully reintegrate into civilian society. As part of this program, the Army is working with civilian industry, trade associations, unions, other federal departments, veterans groups, and the academic community to explore civilian credentials and licensing. The Army’s credentialing program goal is to establish professional credentialing opportunities for soldiers. Credentials enhance Total Force Readiness
MARCH 2015
by helping soldiers learn to enhance their military skills with the best practices of business. Soldiers are able to keep pace with the latest developments in civilian industry within their military skill set. Credentialing promotes lifelong learning opportunities throughout a soldier’s Lifecycle of Service. Credentialing opportunities fill the role of professional self-development in a soldier’s military occupational specialty. Most credentials have increasing levels of difficulty; as a soldier progresses in their career, they can use their new skills and experience to demonstrate what they have learned while increasing their professional knowledge. The Combined Arms Support Command (CASCOM) is at the forefront of
