Any advice for those transitioning from active duty to reserves?

Expect to have to stay on top of annual requirements and NCOERs because the units often drop the ball.

Check emails often, ask a lot of questions, being your records with you to your first drill, and be prepared to wait a while for TA50 and other issued items (if you have your own it helps tremendously), supply has to request stuff for you.

Culture shock. They try to cram to much in two days a month.

try a diff branch' you get a whole new perspective of other branches, i went from active air force to the army guard very big diff

You are in a good area for DoD related jobs and affiliating with the reserves has several advantages. First you find folks who are working in the same area which gives you networking opportunities. Also they used to have active duty opportunities which isn't as bad as it sounds. I know there used to be a large reserve presence at the Space and Naval Warfare Center (SPAWAR) down there on Pacific Highway. The advice about getting a degree if you don't have one is good, many companies have programs that help you pay for that. I worked with MCTSSA as well, they are up the road they also had contract and civil service support folks as well. I have know folks that would go on 6 month active duty with folks like SPAWAR then come off and apply to go again. You could not have a longer stint than 5 months at that time but you could do 5 plus then have a two week break then go another five. It is a good way to network while you increase your skills and accumulate retirement points. Good luck

Start looking for work now. The job market is still weak in my opinion so get a head start. Good resume will help too. Be sure to try staffing agencies, USAJobs.gov also.

Make sure you have copies of medical and personnel records. Check the 214 close door awards and decs, service time, and anything missing.

Be prepared for a culture shock

Good morning SSgt,

Say hi to Sgt McReedy.

S/F

Be patient. There's a lot of pros & cons on both sides.