Photo By Douglas Bedford | WHIDBEY ISLAND, Washington (Aug. 9, 2023) - Professional Apprenticeship Career Track...... read more read more
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The Navy Personnel Command-hosted Pacific Northwest Career Development Symposium (CDS) wrapped up Aug. 10. The symposium aims to empower Sailors with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their careers successfully.
CDS events were held at Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, and Naval Station Everett. Additionally, MyNavyHR leadership held an all-hands call at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor.
Hundreds of Sailors attended the events and engaged with MyNavy HR leadership. Subject matter experts showcased new and emerging Navy programs and initiatives, explained how programs affect Sailors, and offered Sailors the opportunity to ask questions and voice concerns.
MyNavy HR leadership kicked off the event with a town hall and answered questions directly from Sailors in the audience.
“I liked it,” said Navy Counselor 1st Class Alain Hernandez. "I think the all-hands call is a great tool for senior leadership to connect with Sailors in the fleet on the issues that are important to us like pay, family support, and advancement – and ask questions about any policy changes that are coming.”
True to its name as a Career Development Symposium, detailers and community management teams were on hand to provide career advice and discuss current and upcoming programs with Sailors.
“This is a chance for Sailors to talk to detailers and enlisted community managers,” said Master Chief Navy Counselor Derek Messer, the top navy counselor for U.S. Fleet Forces. “But it’s also an opportunity for leaders to talk with these young Sailors in the [Professional Apprenticeship Career Track] program, to set expectations and help them on their journey so that they can take that experience back to their commands. Then they can pay it forward to their own Sailors as they move into leadership positions.”
The central feature of CDS was the MyNavyHR Trade Show. Sailors had the opportunity to visit tables filled with information and meet with subject matter experts to discuss programs and initiatives such as the MyNavy Career Center, eNavFit, the Government Travel Charge Card, MyNavy Coaching, Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support, recruiting duty, and many other topics.
By the end of the week, the PACT Fleet Engagement Team had helped more than 118 Sailors get rated right on the spot. Logistics Specialist Seaman Jashani Anderson is one of the PACT Sailors who received a rating.
“It feels great,” said Anderson. “It feels like I’m a part of something now and not just doing any job. I have a specific job now. I’m overwhelmed, and it’s just joy. It’s pure joy right now. I’m so excited to start it.”
Anderson also expressed gratitude to the PACT team, who guided her through the process at CDS.
“It’s exciting to get a rate, but when other people are considerate, and they try to get you what you want, and they feel what you feel – it’s nice to communicate with them because you know they care about you and not just about doing their job. They care about helping you.”
Another benefit for Sailors was the opportunity to learn about educational opportunities available to them, including the recently established U.S. Naval Community College, which is separate from tuition assistance. Sailors with less than three years of time in service are eligible for one of several associate degree programs offered by the school.
"This is an opportunity for our Sailors to get a fully funded and naval-relevant associate degree," said Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Xander Gamble. "I wish this program was around when I was a young Sailor."
Each USNCC degree program includes a five-course, 15-credit Naval Studies Certificate and a professional certificate in the degree program's concentration area. More information about the programs and applications is available at www.usncc.edu.
Learn more about CDS at https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/Career-Management/Talent-Management/CDS/.
Follow MyNavy HR on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MyNAVYHR
| Date Taken: | 08.10.2023 |
| Date Posted: | 08.11.2023 08:55 |
| Story ID: | 451154 |
| Location: | EVERETT, WA, US |
| Web Views: | 427 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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