Transition Assistance Program doubles in classes, mandatory for all separating Airmen Published Jan. 15, 2014 By Staff Sgt. Veronica Montes 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Team Fairchild's Transition Assistance Program has doubled in classes due to recent force shaping programs Air Force-wide, and is mandatory for all members separating from service. The TAP is a tool for Airmen to assist in their transition to the civilian world, and here it includes pre-separation counseling, the Transition-Goals, Plans, and Succeed five-day class and Capstone. "The program makes sure everyone is aware of their benefits and the resources we have here in our local community to help them," said Bekki Juarez, 92nd Force Support Squadron community readiness specialist and a TAP manager. "It's phenomenal information and can be used as a resource to help people make decisions while planning their future." TAP is recommended for members to take when they are two years away from retirement, or one year away from separation. Yet due to the force shaping initiatives, base leadership is recommending anyone eligible for a retention board to sign up to attend. "It never hurts to take the transition program at any time in your career, it's a lot of valuable information," said Angela O'Connell, 92nd FSS community readiness specialist and a TAP manager. "As soon as people can get in, we recommend they take the class." O'Connell said it's a good thing to get signed up soon because if a member is selected for non-voluntary separation, it will be one less thing they have to do during their out processing. It also lets members know what their options are. She said they cover Veterans Affairs benefits, to include disability, home loans and education. The also teach budgeting and how to translate military skills to the civilian world. The Department of Labor also comes in and briefs on job searching and resume writing. "It will open your eyes to what the labor market looks like," said O'Connell. "It will give you a look at your budget as well. The program helps to make it less of a mystery transferring to the civilian world." To sign up for TAP, call 247-2247.