Just to let everyone know a MSG was just released announcing an outstanding opportunity for Chief’s and CWOs with contracting experience, that are getting ready to retire.
ALCGPSC 005/09 SUBJ: CONTRACTING CAREER OPPORTUNITY PROGRAM
This is a program that brings Senior enlisted and CWOs with contracting experience that are planning to retire (in the near future) to CG HQ for a (two years) twilight tour in contracting.
The Federal Government and the Coast Guard has a shortage of civilian contracting officers. What this program does is give retiring Coasties an opportunity to get their level II FAC-C certification before they retire (on the Coast Guards dime). This puts them in a much better position to compete for civilian positions after retirement.
There is a short fuse on the application process, so please get the word out to anyone that you think meets the prerequisites.
Opportunities are currently available to the civilian workforce, through programs such as the Coast Guard Career Entry Level Opportunity Program (CEO), the Department of Homeland Security Acquisition Professional Program, and the Government-wide Acquisition Management Intern Program. Civilians interested in pursuing a career as a contract professional may apply for these and other professional contracting programs offered by various departments in the Federal Government, but this is the first and only program available for active duty members.
If anyone wants a very good post-retirement career, I suggest getting your FAC-C or DAWIA certification before retiring. We routinely have senior enlisted retirees with DAWIA Level III certification starting at GS-13 and 14.
Another heads up, Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) is also hiring. With all the baby boomers leaving they are on a hiring frenzy to find replacements. I got picked up as a Keystone Intern and started working shortly after I retired. Keystone Interns get priority when they apply for any DAU courses. The internship is great and I am leaning a lot more than the usual simplified acquisitons. for information got to DCMA.mil and click Keystone
