Alaska@Work:
Juan Gonzalez
Aug. 9, 2021
Veteran U.S. Army, Anchorage
Aug. 9, 2021
Period of service: Four years
Stationed: Fort Richardson
What did you do in the service?
"Multichannel Transmission Systems Operator. My main duty station was Fort Richardson, and I worked with antennas to establish communication for the battalion. It was a great experience, because I was exposed to new environments."
Current occupation:
Case manager, Career Support and Training Services, DOLWD, Anchorage
Is your current job related to what you did in the military service?
"There are certain aspects that are similar. Having interpersonal skills has significantly helped me work with the public who seek services at the Anchorage Midtown Job Center. We see individuals of all backgrounds and assisting them properly has brought positive outcomes."
Why did you choose to serve?
"I wanted to explore other places in the world and thankful for the opportunity that the Army brought me to Alaska."
What did you learn from your service?
"Being able to live through the US allowed me to understand and comprehend different people's views. The military provides an environment where the service members role is to complete the mission. We all worked as a unit and learned much from each other along the way."
Since being out of the service, how has DOLWD's veteran services helped you?
"I was assisted through resume, job search and interviewing skills. Having dedicated staff who looked at my resume was very helpful since it allowed me to create a concrete and strong resume. This provided me with the opportunity to obtain more interviews. Mock interviews helped me prepare, and give me confidence once I interviewed."
What is your opinion of the veteran services you received?
"I learned of the services at the job center once I became a client. I was exposed to networking possibilities and met HR managers prior to an interview to present myself. This was very helpful and it built up my confidence searching for employment."
What advice would you give other veterans?
"Maintain a positive attitude and remain optimistic during your job search. There are many resources established for you to become successful."
How has the pandemic affected your work?
"The job center was always open to the public. COVID-19 changed that, and it became a challenge to assist the community. We needed to adapt and assist everyone in a new way."
