Development Project at Work need help with Ideas!

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 12 Sep 2015 16:18:21 -0400

I am part of a program at work that I have to come up with a pilot program that will bring about change in the VA. This is what I have so far, I am starting to feel like I may have bitten off more than I can chew... but being this is something I feel passionate about; I don't want to pick something else:

I want to set up a local pilot program for my VA that is along the ideas of DoD's Operations Warfighter Program- but not an internship like OWP. I want to set up a program that would allow for the VA and local bases transitioning centers as Service Members are getting out will have an opportunity to transition into a career in the VA.

Right now of the many VA's use VRA and 30%+ Veterans appointments into positions like food services or housekeeping aid positions. It sickens me that this is what we see as a "best opportunity" to get veterans into the workforce. So my goal is to get them into positions that relate to veterans care. Because for me, I would rather have a veteran who knows the VA struggles, answering the scheduling lines or a clinic MSA. Or in be case scenarios in positions that relate to their military occupations- if that is possible.

This is going to be a though sale for me. There are some hiring managers with in the VA. That don't like the idea of direct hires authorities, because they feel it takes away their options for "best candidate". Also many of them only focus on internal candidates for merit promotions, that they forget that they have outside options, like veterans.

Anyways I would like feedback and ideas. PLEASE. What would you guys think of this idea? I have to give a presentation about how I plan to do this.

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Sep 12 at 2015 4:25 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Sat, 12 Sep 2015 16:25:00 -0400

Some veterans will be suited by training and experience to relate to other veterans care; but, many won't SPC Private RallyPoint Member.
The idea as merit; but, expect pushback from bureaucrats who want to maintain the status quo. Hopefully there will be some managers who are interested in improving and willing to try out new ideas.
The development of good screening of applicants is important. Personal screening by counselors is much better than screening completed assessments.
Linking military training and experience to VA MC positions outside of medical, physical therapy, food service and construction would be difficult. Construction, engineering as in plant engineers, computer and technology skills could be very useful in areas of the VA which are developing, remodeling, or other construction, projects. Some sates have union laws while other are right to work. Getting veterans who are not union members into positions in construction fields can be difficult.

Response by SSG Raymond Whitener made Sep 12 at 2015 7:24 PM

SSG Raymond Whitener — Sat, 12 Sep 2015 19:24:08 -0400

The VA should be a service for us by us. If the VA transferred the services of non-commissioned officers, soldiers, the spouses of soldiers hurt in combat, and veterans from prior conflicts into a work force, it would then be a service for veterans by veterans that care for the people and the serviced they provide

Response by SPC(P) Jay Heenan made Sep 13 at 2015 9:59 PM

SPC(P) Jay Heenan — Sun, 13 Sep 2015 21:59:04 -0400

It is a great idea, but the VA is similar to big Army...those with connections get hired/promoted, everyone else is just a cog in the wheel of bureaucracy. I can't even catch an actual open slot in which to apply for because "it is already being filled from within". Most jobs posted are already filled positions, but law requires them to post it. Anyway, it is a great idea, wishing you great success in seeing this through.

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Sep 14 at 2015 8:32 AM

SSgt Alex Robinson — Mon, 14 Sep 2015 08:32:00 -0400

How about a veterans advisory committee to have oversight and make recommendations to the facility administration