GOOD NEWS STORIES

Jason Jackson, Director, Nebraska Department of Administrative Services shares his Veteran experience and support for PaYS.

By: Travis Carter

The State of Nebraska recently partnered with the US Army through the PaYS Program. At the signing ceremony, Jason Jackson, Director, Nebraska Department of Administrative Services shared his experience as a Veteran transitioning to the Civilian workforce.

Why did you join the Army? What was/is your MOS?
I joined the Army because I respected so many leaders in the organization and knew I wanted to be a part of their team. I'm a 27A, Judge Advocate.

How did you learn of the PaYS Program and what is your opinion of it?
PaYS program leadership did outreach with my unit. I hold the PaYS program in high esteem because it is the meeting the need of helping Soldiers find their next career in the Civilian sector.

Share your experience in connecting with the State of Nebraska.
I'm one of over 700 Veterans and Servicemembers that also work for the State. The opportunity to bring these two organizations together so more Servicemembers can continue their careers in public service.

If the State of Nebraska was your first position after service, how was the transition from the Army to the State?
My first role after transitioning from the military was with a technology firm. I only got the position after an arduous job search and significant help from my personal network. So many Veterans don't have a network in the private sector which is why programs like PaYS is so important.

How did your military experience help with your current position at the State of Nebraska?
At the State of Nebraska, prior military service is valued. That I was a Veteran and had military service gave me credibility as a leader that I wouldn't have otherwise had.

What advice do you have for Soldiers reaching out to PaYS partners?
Showcase your energy, passion, and values. These qualities are transferable to any professional field of endeavor.

PAYS SIGNING CEREMONIES

Beacon Building Products

By: Crancena Ross

The signing ceremony between Beacon Building Products and the Houston Recruiting Battalion kicked off with Miss Avery Phillips,11-year-old, daughter of Mrs. Ashley Phillips, an Employee of Beacon Building Products. Ms. Phillips captured the audience when she sang the National Anthem in an uplifting voice.

COL Julian Perez, Commander, 5th Recruiting Brigade spoke about the benefits of partnering with the PaYS Program. "The PaYS Program promotes brand awareness by partnering with corporations, federal, state, and local agencies. The PaYS Program also bridges the gap between military service and Civilian careers", said COL Perez

Mr. Sean McDevitt, Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resource Officer, Beacon Building Products also rendered remarks, saying, "Partnering with the U.S. Army PaYS Program, is not just a benefit for the Veterans, but also Beacon, by being able to have an opportunity to interview Soldiers and Veterans, which provides great skill sets and values that Beacon Building Products, is looking for and believes in and aligns with commitment & dedication that Veterans displays while serving our country" Beacon, currently has a large Veterans pool of employee, but wishes to extend it across the globe.

Photo above - (l-r) CASA Myrna Trevino, Mr. Sean McDevitt, COL Julian Perez with ceremonial plaque
Photo right - Five Future Soldiers are administered the Oath of Enlistment by COL Perez
Photo far right - (l-r) McDevitt and COL Perez slice the ceremonial cake after formal proceedings

Ms. Myrna Trevino, Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (CASA) (Texas -South), guest speaker said, "Greeting Everyone! It's a pleasure to be here to participate it the signing ceremony between Beacon Building Products and the Houston Recruiting Battalion. The PaYS program is a program that makes the Army more than just an incredible career choice. It makes it a smart business decision too. It takes team leaders and teammates to share the message about the Army PaYS Program and the great opportunities that are provided by partnering with the U.S. Army PaYS Program, is win-win."

Beacon Building Products has over 7,000 employees throughout North America who work to ensure contractors have immediate and local access to building supplies and roofing products. Beacon is committed to hiring and retaining military Veterans, Reservists, and National Guard members. The goal is to offer meaningful careers within an organization.

Maine Department of Corrections Joins the U.S. Army PaYS Program

By: Maine Department of Corrections
Source: MDOC Joins U.S. Army ArmyPaYS Program | Department of Corrections (maine.gov)

AUGUSTA, Maine - Maine Department of Corrections joined the U.S. Army PaYS program at a signing ceremony on September 3, 2024, in the Memorial Garden at Maine Correctional Center. The U.S. Army Partnership for Your Success (PaYS) program is a strategic partnership between the U.S. Army and a cross section of private industry, academia, and businesses to include federal, state, and local agencies. The partnership memorandum of agreement between the U.S. Army and MDOC was signed by MDOC Commissioner Randall A. Liberty and Brigadier General Diane Dunne, Adjutant General, Maine Army National Guard, and Commissioner for the Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management. A reception followed where attendees from MDOC and the U.S. Army networked and discussed additional collaborative opportunities. Director of Culinary & Food Sustainability Krista Okerholm coordinated the reception, with Chef Carl Greeley and the culinary participants from Long Creek making whoopie pie travelers and chocolate truffles.

"Our involvement in this strategic partnership sends a clear message to those that serve and have served that we stand behind you and that we are ready to welcome you to the Maine Department of Corrections team," said Commissioner Liberty in his remarks.

Veterans make up 21% of MDOC's current workforce compared to 5.6% nationally.

The U.S. Army PaYS program assists active-duty Soldiers in finding meaningful employment upon their discharge. Nationally, the program guarantees Soldiers and ROTC cadets five job interviews and possible employment after their service in the U.S. Army. By becoming a partner, MDOC and our job opportunities are added to the Army PaYS program database for Soldier job search activities. Maine State Law guarantees Veterans and Gold Star military spouses job interview opportunities when meeting the minimum qualifications of the job.

"I believe that each of us has a duty to assist in the transition of those coming off active duty and for those that serve as citizen Soldiers, always ready to answer the call to defend our national interests," said Commissioner Liberty. "As we have witnessed, one of the most important ways that we can assist our Veterans is to provide them with the opportunity to provide for their families with meaningful jobs. Military Veterans are proven, reliable, trained, committed, have endured hardships, and have persevered. They are a tremendous asset to any organization, and we welcome them to our team."

About MDOC Careers
* Post-Military Careers - https://www.maine.gov/corrections/careers/veteran
* All Career Opportunities -https://www.maine.gov/corrections/career
* Become a Correctional Officer - https://www.maine.gov/corrections/careers/c
* Become a Juvenile Community Corrections Officer - https://www.maine.gov/corrections/careers/jcc
* Become a Juvenile Program Worker - https://www.maine.gov/corrections/careers/jp
* Become a Probation Officer - https://www.maine.gov/corrections/careers/p

The City of Augusta Maine, Police Department

By: Crancena Ross

The City of Augusta, ME Police Department, and the New England Recruiting Battalion, hosted a signing ceremony at the Augusta Maine, Police Department Headquarters. The Augusta Police Color Guard Officers David Adams, Erik Maheu, Aaron Paradis, and Colin Kinney posted the colors to kick off the ceremony as the National Anthem played. The ceremonial certificate was signed by LTC Diontanese Monroe and Kevin Lully, Chief of Police, City of Augusta, ME.

LTC Diontanese Monroe, Commander, New England Recruiting Battalion, took a few minutes to address the audience and shared the importance of partnership between the U.S. Army and the City of Augusta, ME Police Department. LTC Monroe said, "This Strategic partnership between the U.S. Army and The City of Augusta, Maine Police Department, is a win-win, as Veterans transition into the Civilian workforce. The Army PaYS program plays a significant role and makes a difference in Veterans' lives by having them to register for up to five guaranteed job interviews with five Army PaYS Partners of their choice. This also allows the City of Augusta, Maine Police Department to welcome those Veterans, transitioning out of the Army to select them as a partner of choice of whom they wish to be interviewed and possibly employed."

Kevin Lully, Chief of Police, City of August, ME Police Department, "Addressed the audience by saying throughout history there have been similarities between the attributes of our Nation's military and the City of Augusta, Maine Police Department Personnel; including but not limited to integrity, dedication, loyalty, honor, professionalism and selflessness. The City of Augusta, Maine Police Department truly is grateful and appreciates the opportunity that we have been given to partner with the U.S. Army PaYS Program. Partnering with the Army PaYS Program is something that not only benefits the army candidates seeking employment, but also the potential employers hiring new employees.

Photo right - (l-r) Chief Lully and LTC Diontanese Monroe signed the ceremonial agreement

Photo left - (l-r) LTC Diontanese Monroe presents LTC Lully with the PaYS plaque.

The State of Nebraska

By: Velvett Jenkins

In a significant moment for the Soldiers and Veterans of Nebraska, the state officially announced its partnership with the U.S. Army through the Partnership for Your Success (PaYS) Program during a ceremony held in the Capitol Rotunda, Lincoln, NE. The event was marked by the signing of a ceremonial agreement between MG Craig Strong, The Adjutant General of the Nebraska Army National Guard, and Governor Jim Pillen. This partnership highlighted Nebraska's commitment to supporting transitioning Soldiers as they move from military service into Civilian careers.

The ceremony commenced with the Nebraska 209th Regiment Color Guard posting the Colors, while the 43rd Army Band Woodwind Quintet delivered a moving rendition of the National Anthem. In front of gathered dignitaries, state officials and military personnel, speakers including Governor Jim Pillen, Jason Jackson, Director of the Nebraska Department of Administrative Services, and MG Strong, shared their thoughts on the partnership and its potential impact.

Governor Pillen emphasized the state's dedication to helping Veterans smoothly transition back into Civilian life. "It is so important that we do everything we can in Nebraska to help our men and women get back into Civilian life and that they have extraordinary careers and extraordinary ways to raise their families," he stated.

Photo top right - The audience stands for posting of the Colors.

Photo right - Speakers during their remarks (l-r) Governor Jim Pillen, Director Jason Jackson, MG Craig Strong

Photo bottom right - (l-r) MG Strong and Gov Pillen with the signed agreement

Photo above left - The Woodwind Quintet playing the National Anthem

Nebraska's decision to partner with the U.S. Army PaYS Program made it the seventh state to pledge its support in helping Soldiers find meaningful employment after military service.

Director Jackson, spoke from personal experience about the challenges Veterans face when translating their military skills into Civilian qualifications. "As a Veteran myself, I know how difficult transitioning from the military to the Civilian sector can be. Veterans struggle with just how to articulate and translate their military experiences into Civilian qualifications," Jackson said.

MG Strong said, "This is a win-win agreement. A win for all and the 10 individuals who are joining the Nebraska Army National Guard that will raise their right hand to both the Constitution and the State of Nebraska. The proposition that you have signed up to serve your Country and the end of the term is the success part of the agreement. 'For Your Success'. While you're in uniform and continuing as you are a Soldier For Life. It's a win, no doubt about it."

One of the ceremony's highlights was Governor Pillen administering the Oath of Enlistment to 10 new members of the Nebraska Army National Guard. These new Soldiers, who also registered for the PaYS Program, are now in charge of their career paths once they complete Basic Combat Training, with PaYS partners offering career opportunities upon their transition.

Photo right - Governor Pillen swears in 10 Future Soldiers of the NEARNG

Photo left - Cake cutting ceremony

Following the formal proceedings, the celebration moved to the Capitol Cafeteria, where a cake-cutting ceremony took place. The PaYS team also enjoyed a tour of the Capitol building, learning more about Nebraska's rich history and its ongoing dedication to supporting Veterans and military personnel.

Berry Law Firm

By: Velvett Jenkins

Berry Law Firm, a Veteran Disability firm based in Lincoln, NE, announced an exciting new partnership with the U.S. Army Partnership for Your Success (PaYS) Program. This collaboration emphasizes the firm's dedication to supporting Veterans, both in their legal representation and now as an employer committed to hiring and advancing Veteran talent.

Established in 1965 by attorney and World War II Veteran John Stevens Berry, Sr., Berry Law has a rich history of advocating for Veterans, particularly in areas related to disability claims. The firm prides itself on employing Veterans and working tirelessly to ensure they receive the benefits they have earned through their military service.

On a monumental day for both the firm and the Nebraska Army National Guard, MG Craig Strong, The Adjutant General, Nebraska Army National Guard, and John Posner, Chief Operating Officer of Berry Law, officially signed the ceremonial agreement solidifying the firm’s partnership with the PaYS Program.

During his remarks, MG Strong said, "The PaYS Program is a fantastic Program, and we are honored that the Berry Law Firm, with its proud history is stepping up to the plate and cosigning this agreement. When we talk about Soldiers for Life, this is what the PaYS program represents. It's the commitment we have from the point of taking that Oath to the final task. You are a Soldier For Life."

Mr. Posner said, "This is a joint fight. No one fights alone. We are really honored to partner with this program and to be good battle buddies dedicated to the cause. We will give the opportunity of worthy work to Veterans at Berry Law."

By joining forces with PaYS, Berry Law continues its mission to empower Veterans, not only through legal advocacy, but also by creating employment opportunities that support their post-service career paths. The ceremony stands as a symbol of Berry Law's ongoing commitment to Veterans and marks a significant step in their efforts to foster a workplace environment that honors and supports those who have served.

Chicago Police Department

By: Lakisha Carter-Hyche

Photo right - BG Michael Shanley presents Superintendent Larry Snelling with a Plaque from Army PaYS.

Photo below - BG Shanley provides remarks to the audience

Chicago Police Department recently participated in a signing ceremony with Chicago Recruiting Battalion to announce their partnership in support of Veteran employment. The ceremony was hosted by U.S. Army Reserve BG Michael Shanley, Commanding General, 85th Support Command, and Chicago Police Department Superintendent Larry Snelling, who signed the agreement during the ceremony.


The Chicago Police Department (CPD) is a nationally accredited, full-service law enforcement agency dedicated to serving a diverse population of approximately 2.75 million residents in Chicago. As the largest law enforcement agency in Illinois, the CPD plays a critical role in maintaining public safety, enforcing laws, and fostering community relations. Established in 1835, the CPD has evolved into a modern police force equipped to handle a wide range of challenges. The department employs thousands of officers and support personnel, providing a variety of services, including crime prevention, investigations, traffic enforcement, and community engagement initiatives.

"It is a great honor to be here today and participate in this signing ceremony; this is a win-win opportunity for everyone involved, especially our Soldiers and your potential future employees," said Shanley. "This partnership is a beacon of hope, offering a promising future for our Soldiers and a pool of talented, dedicated individuals for the Chicago Police Department. This partnership reassures parents that the Army is investing in their children's future."


Superintendent Snelling also provided remarks during the ceremony. "We are proud as the Chicago Police Department becomes a part of the PaYS program," said Snelling. "This is more than just a job; it is a calling, just like going into the military. You have to be more than dedicated to doing this type of work. You have to want to help people, you have to want to protect those that are the most vulnerable, you have to want to protect your country, you have to want to protect its citizens, and this is why this partnership is significant."

Photo right - CASA Steve Herman, discusses the similarities of the Army and the Chicago Police Department and potential partnerships within the community.

Photo above - SGT Nathaniel Myles, Chicago Police Department Recruitment Division addresses the guests on the importance of partnering with the Army to bring talented individuals to the Chicago Police Department.

Durham Police Department

By: Samuel I. Armstrong

Durham Police Department recently participated in a signing ceremony with North Carolina Army National Guard in Durham, NC. The ceremony was hosted by COL Michael Marciniak, CDR 60th Troop Command and North Carolina Army National Guard, including Chief Patrice Andrews, Chief of Police, Durham Police Department, and Roger Lafferty, Sergeant, Durham Police Department served as the guest speakers.

The Durham Police Department is a full-service police department, having primary responsibilities for law enforcement and investigation within the city limits of Durham, North Carolina. The mission of the Durham Police Department is to minimize crime, promote safety, and enhance the quality of life in partnership within the community.

COL Marciniak stated that, "We share a common mission and that is protecting nation and serving our communities. Which make fruitful partnership for both organizations."

Chief Andrews made a personal point of privilege, "Now, as a mother of a recruit at Army Basic Combat Course, this program gives me assurance that he will be able to find meaningful opportunities when he decides to transition into Civilian life. I want to extend my deepest thanks to the United State Army for allowing us to be part of this outstanding initiative to the Soldiers and Veterans our heroes.

Photo right - COL Marciniak and Chief Andrews

Photo left - Cake cutting ceremony

PAYS MARKETING TRIPS

Raleigh/Fort Liberty Area

By: Victor T. Fleming

PaYS Marketing Analyst Victor Fleming traveled to Raleigh/Fort Liberty, NC to conduct marketing activities. During the trip, he met with Nidia Salinas, Talent Acquisition Specialist, TA Loving Company. They discussed PaYS partnership benefits, both building and maintaining relationships with partners.

He then visited the Fort Liberty Soldier Support Center where he briefed Soldiers who were eager to register for PaYS.

He also met with CASA Danny Dederick and a representative from Fort Liberty Garrison, followed by a conference with city personnel from Fayetteville and county representatives of Cumberland County.

Next, was a visit with the Raleigh Battalion Commander, LTC Ray Ramos. They discussed PaYS opportunities within his leadership footprint. He also registered for PaYS.

Victor visited the Gardner Army Recruiting Station, where he spoke with SFC Daniel Bond, Station Commander and the Recruiters. They discussed program updates, talked about briefing potential partners in the area, and meeting with the Reserve Centers to get Soldiers registered for PaYS. Five Soldiers successfully registered for PaYS.

Photos clockwise from upper left - Victor Fleming met with Ms. Nidia Salinas, Talent Acquisition Specialist, TA Loving Company. - Victor Fleming briefed and registered Soldiers for PaYS at the Fort Liberty Soldier Center. - CASA Dederick and Victor Fleming, PaYS Marketer - Victor Fleming stands with SFC Bond and recruiters in front of the Gardner Recruiting Station. - Victor Fleming and LTC Ray Ramos

PaYS in Augusta, Maine

By: Crancena Ross

PaYS Marketing Analyst, Crancena Ross visited to the Maine Department of Corrections (MDOC), who recently became a partner. She met with Mr. Tim Sardano, Recruiting & Retention Coordinator. During the meeting, she learned that Veterans made up 21% of the Maine Department of Corrections (MDOC) workforce. Ms. Ross toured the facility, where Tim shared the minimum qualifications about job opportunities.

Photo right - Tim Sardano, Recruitment and Retention Coordinator, MDOC and Crancena Ross

Fort Campbell and Nashville Area

By: Samuel I. Armstong

Recently, Samuel Armstrong, PaYS Marketing Analyst, visited the Fort Campbell Transition Assistance Program (TAP) where he connected with key personnel, including Transition Service Manager Anne Fugate and Transition Service Specialist Anthony White. This meeting focused on increasing awareness of the PaYS program among Soldiers, highlighting how it can serve as a bridge to post-military careers.

Armstrong engaged with executive and mid-level manager Soldiers, discussing the benefits of the program and setting up a registration table. His hands-on approach provided valuable information and encouraged Soldiers to take proactive steps toward their future.

Armstrong continued his outreach at the Tennessee ARNG Recruiting Center, meeting with SFC Bradley Toaster, the Career Counselor and Gold Phase NCOIC. Their discussion revolved around the importance of Gold Phase Soldiers signing up for PaYS, emphasizing the significance of a strong start to their Civilian careers. By registering Soldiers and discussing potential partnerships in the area, Armstrong solidified the program's presence within the recruiting framework.

Further engagement at the Nashville Recruiting Battalion allowed Armstrong to present the PaYS program to leadership. He underscored the importance of not only registering for the program but also preparing for interviews and effectively showcasing military skills to prospective employers. The discussions also revolved around fostering relationships with current partners and exploring new opportunities, further expanding the support network available to transitioning Soldiers.

A visit to LKQ, a Veteran-friendly organization, provided an opportunity for deeper collaboration. Armstrong met with Gordon Patterson, the Director of Talent Acquisition, and Genevieve Dombrowski, Senior VP of Human Resources. They discussed their partnership and ways to better connect with Soldiers. Notably, LKQ is actively seeking Veterans in multiple states, including California, Illinois, Ohio, and Tennessee, and plans to hold monthly meetings to explore opportunities.

Attending the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce open house allowed Armstrong to meet Joshua Burch, a retired Army CW5 and current Military Liaison & Veteran's Talent Director. Their conversation centered on how the Chamber could promote the PaYS program within the community, further integrating it into local business practices. Burch's interest in collaborating for the benefit of transitioning Soldiers highlights the growing recognition of the program's value.

Photo above - SFC Bradley Toaster registers for PaYS

Photo far right - Samuel Armstrong, LTC Johnson, CDR, Nashville Recruiting BN, and CSM Naughton, Nashville Recruiting BN

Photo right - Samuel Armstrong, Genevieve Dombrowski, Senior VP of HR, LKQ and Gordon Patterson, Director of Talent Acquisition, LKQ

Lincoln, Nebraska

By: Travis Carter

PaYS Marketing Analyst, Travis Carter and PaYS Social Media Coordinator, Velvett Jenkins conducted a marketing trip to Lincoln, Nebraska. While there Mr. Carter briefed NEARNG TAG on the PaYS Program as well as securing TAG's enrollment into the program. Mr. Carter and Ms. Jenkins also met with local partners, University of Nebraska Lincoln Army ROTC and attended two signing ceremonies.

Mr. Carter went to the Nebraska National Guard Joint Force Headquarters. While there Mr. Carter, along with PaYS Program Manager Mr. Antonio Johnson and Soldier for Life Director COL Jarrett Thomas, briefed Nebraska National Guard TAG MG Craig Strong on PaYS. They also discussed ways to make sure the program is more successful, and how the NEARNG can help get Soldiers enrolled. Mr. Carter got MG Strong to register for PaYS while there for the visit.

Mr. Carter and Ms. Jenkins visited local partners in the Lincoln area, City of Lincoln, Lancaster County and TMCO. While visiting Mr. Carter discussed usage of the PaYS Program with the partners, answered any questions they had, and addressed ways to make the program more successful for the partners.

Photo top right - (l-r) COL Jarrett Thomas, MG Craig Strong, NEARNG TAG, Travis Carter, Antonio Johnson, Sr., MAJ Sean O’Neill, COL Benes LTC Eggen

Photo left - Travis Carter registers MG Strong for PaYS



Photo right - Travis briefs Ms. Ashlee Harms on program updates, following workshop tour

Photo far right - (l-r) SGT Drew Bolzer, Velvett Jenkins, Travis Carter, SGT Dan Noonan

Mr. Carter, along with Ms. Jenkins and Mr. Johnson, got the opportunity to brief the Army ROTC Cadets at the University of Lincoln Nebraska. Mr. Carter was provided the unique opportunity to brief the entire Corps of Cadets prior to their weekly lab. Cadre said many Cadets seemed interested and would ensure they continue to push the program.


Lastly, Mr. Carter and Ms. Jenkins attended not one, but two signing ceremonies in the Lincoln area while on the trip. The first was the State of Nebraska PaYS signing ceremony, which took place at the State Capitol. The second was the Berry Law firm PaYS signing ceremony, which took place at the Berry Law office in Lincoln.

Photo right - State of Nebraska signing ceremony, MG Craig Strong and GOV Jim Pillen

Photo far right - Berry Law Firm Signing Ceremony (l-r) CASA Richard Burch, MG Craig Strong, John Posner, Antonio Johnson

The trip was a resounding success with partners getting their concerns addressed as well as finding new strategies through discussion with their PaYS Marketer. The NEARNG and TAG have confirmed their commitment to the program and its usage along with the Cadre at UNL. Additionally, two new partners got to have their ceremonies with PaYS representatives being able to attend them.