U.S. Army Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation

James Alderson
Human Resources Management Trainee
Fort Carson, CO

Describe your typical day at work:

Flexibility is the key at the Ft. Carson NAF office. My day begins around 0730 hours. A daily strategy session with my Trainer is normally the first critical event of the day. Then I normally check my email and prioritize the responses; ensuring I respond to my Trainer’s requests first.

I have yet to find myself encompassed with the same daily activities. Each day brings about newly found priorities that must be accomplished along with the other daily functions necessary to provide efficient service to the Ft. Carson community.

List some of your responsibilities:
* Staff meetings
* Disciplinary actions
* Rating applications
* Career Referral Program (CRP)
* Staff and personnel actions
* In/Out processing employees
* Mediate management/employee complaints
* Assist in the preparation of the office budget
* Compiling and editing various reports
* Staff management
* Special recruiting events
* Advertising
* Training coordinator
* Wage survey
* Other projects assigned by my Trainer that require immediate attention

What do you like best about your job?
I really must give mention to my Trainer, Debra Phillips. She has provided an environment full of challenges in which I am able to creatively accomplish many tasks. She has allowed me to grow professionally as well as personally. She brings much more to training than just the hands on portion. She facilitates training with her valuable knowledge and insight as to the effective management of a Human Resources office.

I really enjoy the interaction amongst people in general, whether it is with the employees, managers, or the office staff.

What training have you attended while in this position?
* Standard First Aid/CPR-AED Course
* Computer Users Security Course
* MWR Orientation Course
* Online Mentoring Training
* Army Family Team Building, Level I, II, III
* Rear Detachment Commander Computer Based Training
* DOD U.S. Constitution Day Course
* MWR Basic Management Course
* NIH EEO, Disability Awareness Training
* NIH EEO, Prevention of Sexual Harassment Training
* Preventing Sexual Harassment
* Basic NAF Contracting
* Intern Leadership Development Course
* Composite Risk Management (CRM) Basic Course
* NIH Diversity Management Training
* Managerial Business Ethics
* Ethics and Professional Knowledge
* Government Ethics
* Prevention of Sexual Harassment/EEO for Supervisors
* Applied Financial Planning
* Effective Army Writing Course
* Supervisor Development Course
* Action Officer Development Course
* HQDA IAA Virtual Training Course
* Army Specific DAA Course
* Thumb Drive Awareness Training Course
* Army G3 Computer Security Training

How has your training helped you both personally and professionally?
The training I have received so far has been very beneficial in my quest to become an HR Manager both personally and professionally. Each training event has further advanced my knowledge base reference the HR profession. With the successful completion of each training event, I find myself more capable of providing efficient HR services to those I serve.

What types of decisions do you make in your current position?
Thus far, I have been given the authority to make accurate and timely decisions concerning, but not limited to; disciplinary actions, management/employee complaints, training requirements for management/employees, etc.

What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them?
I really haven’t been confronted with any so-called problems. I have been allowed to learn, grow, and develop personal characteristics conducive to managing an efficient Human Resources office.

What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this?
I am anticipating becoming a NAF HR Chief as the next major step outside of the Management Trainee Program. I don’t foresee any major challenges. In light of the current NAF HR vacancy situation, I do foresee some challenges in placement upon completion of the required training. But I look forward to the challenge of earning my position as a NAF HR Chief.

Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development?
The program has been exceptionally beneficial to me. I came to the program with a very limited amount of exposure to the HR profession outside of being educationally qualified to pursue a career within HR. The program has allowed me to get the hands-on expertise that is needed to perform at a high level of proficiency within a results-oriented environment.

Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations?
The program has certainly exceeded my expectations. This comment is based on my being placed with a great Trainer, Debra Phillips as well as the training being provided at Fort Carson, CO and formal schooling.

What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program?
I would advise anyone interested in the program to take the program seriously. It is a program designed for aggressive applicants willing to take on the challenge of learning and growing while managing to become a Manager. In the end, you will be rewarded for your efforts in a timely manner!

Matt Enoch
Recreation Management Trainee
Fort Knox, KY

Enoch

Describe your typical day at work:

One of the great things about this profession is that there is no typical day at work. I might be working on developing a program, completing a big project, working a large concert, taking a course on the computer, or attending a conference in some other state. The one thing that is typical is that there is always a need for a sharp focus. You must be able to focus on the task at hand, or you will not be able to keep up.

List some of your responsibilities:
* Serve as a member of the Fort Knox Recreational Delivery System team
* Fulfill training requirements
* Find and participate in activities that present learning opportunities

What do you like best about your job?
I love taking on extremely difficult projects as learning opportunities and then seeing them through until completion. Also, as a recreation professional, there’s nothing better than serving the men and women of the United States Army.

What training have you attended while in this position?
* FMWRC Basic Management Course
* NAF Basic Contracting Course
* Applied Financial Planning
* Recreation Program Management and Leadership
* Intern Leadership Development Course
* RDS Program Management Institute Level I
* Supervisor Development Course
* Action Officer Development Course
* Effective Army Writing
* National Playground Safety Institute
* Army Family Team Building

How has your training helped you both personally and professionally?
Personally, the training has improved my leadership and interpersonal skills. Professionally, I have learned about management within the Army, managing the workforce, and a superior method of providing recreation programs to the community.

What types of decisions do you make in your current position?
I’ve been able to use my independent judgment in completing projects or tasks because I have established credibility with my chain-of-command. Throughout most of my time here I have had several tasks and projects to work on at the same time. I have had to prioritize these and decide the order in which to complete them.

What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them?
The biggest problem I have faced is in the management of time. As a trainee, you will have a tremendous amount of work to accomplish and deadlines to meet, placed on you by people at your installation and those managing the training program at Headquarters. You can get behind very fast. I developed a system of prioritizing tasks and maintained a sharp focus. This allowed me to get done what I needed to do with quality. There are times when you just can’t do it all. As long as you can show that you have done your best, you will be fine.

What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this?
The next step for me is to become a manager within an installation’s community recreation division. The greatest challenge will be taking what I learned as a trainee and putting it into practice. There are some things that I will not have dealt with as a trainee, such as the actual supervision of employees. These are things I will have to adjust to and learn on the job.

Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development?
This is the best career decision that I have ever made. This agency truly cares about the development of their future workforce, and I feel very privileged to be a part of it.

Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations?
To this point in the training, my expectations have been exceeded.

What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program?
Sign up today and do whatever it takes to get in. If you are a person with no military experience and you are not the spouse of a Soldier, you will find it very difficult to make your way into the federal service. This program is a great way for qualified, motivated professionals to become permanent federal employees and receive invaluable experience and training. Once you get in, it’s up to you and you alone to make the most out of the program.

Jeffery M. Helminiak
Financial Management Trainee
Fort Polk, LA

Describe your typical day at work:

My typical day is very busy. I usually get to work around 7:30 a.m. and finish at 4:30 p.m. I start by checking emails and responding if needed. I usually am working on any number of financial reports or briefing slides to present to the Director or the Garrison Commander. During the course of the day, I complete other tasks and troubleshoot any questions that activity managers have concerning financial issues. Lately, I have been assisting the Chief Financial Officer with preparing the FY 08 operating budget and preparing the review of insured exposures.

List some of your responsibilities:
* Assist with the budget process
* Prepare various financial reports
* Prepare tip reports for accounting purposes
* Conduct Internal controls at all activities within the MWR
* Manage the Child and Youth Services financial requirements
* Serve as team leader regarding business improvement Lean Six Sigma projects

What do you like best about your job?
The best aspect of my job is working with all the divisions within the MWR. Working in the financial management division (FMD) gives a broad stroke of the entire organization. The FMD provides a constant challenge and gives me the chance to apply what I learned in college. In addition, working for the MWR gives me the opportunity to work on a military installation in support of Soldiers and their Families.

What training have you attended while in this position (USE BULLETS)?
* MWR Basic Management Course
* MWR Orientation Course
* Applied Financial Planning – Income Statement Analysis
* Applied Financial Planning – Retail Sales Accountability
* Applied Financial Planning – Forecasting
* Applied Financial Planning – Breakeven Analysis
* Intern Leadership Development Course
* First Aid/CPR
* Business Program Management and Leadership Course
* Installation Management Command Business Improvement – Lean Six Sigma (BI-LSS) Green Belt Training

How has your training helped you both personally and professionally?
Working as a Management Trainee has helped me become more aware of my strengths and weaknesses. The training provided by MWR and the Department of the Army has given me the tools to build on my personal and professional development. Also, the training has given me an opportunity to meet other people inside the organization, which has given me a better perspective and understanding of our total mission.

What types of decisions do you make in your current position?
Currently, I decide how and when to conduct internal controls on the various MWR activities regarding financial oversight and key control. Also, I have been given the responsibility of financial oversight over the Child and Youth Services Division.

What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them?
Once I arrived to my duty station at Fort Polk, I wanted to take on as much as I could. The problem I encountered in the first couple of months was the uncertainty of the future. At first, I was able to fill my time by completing the necessary on-line training requirements. When I finished those requirements, I had trouble getting involved in the day-to-day operations of the Financial Management Office. However, as time progressed, I was afforded more responsibilities that related to financial management and oversight. I solved this problem by taking the initiative and I communicated my expectations to my trainer/mentor. As a result, I had the opportunity to assist in the preparation of the FY 2008 operating budget and reviewed the Risk Management Program.

What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this?
The next step in my career path is to apply for a position as a financial management analyst/specialist at my current duty station or at another Army Installation in the continental U.S. or Overseas. The greatest challenge will be to complete the On the Job (OJT) experience. Once that is complete, I have every confidence that the only challenge will be finding an opening for a financial analyst position.

Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development?
Absolutely, the NAF Management Trainee Program is a great way to get your foot in the door. The program offers trainees a chance to go to training, which contributes to career development and progression.

Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations?
The Management Trainee Program has met my expectations.

What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program?
If you want to pursue a career in federal service, you cannot beat working for the Army MWR. The pay allows for a comfortable life, the benefits are excellent, and the opportunity to travel around the world is real. Take full advantage of the training opportunities that may arise. Be sure to take the initiative and communicate your expectations with your mentor. Last, be prepared to commit yourself to the program and get involved in anyway you can.

Conor Joyce
Outdoor/Community Recreation Management Trainee
Fort Cason, CO

Joyce

Describe your typical day at work:

A typical day for me involves working on various upcoming programs which benefit the Ft. Carson community, soldiers, families, and others. I work at the Outdoor Recreation Complex, which is a very active program. During the day, I work with many of the staff in the Adventure Programs and Education (APE) area, the Information, Tickets, and Registrations (ITR) department, the Equipment Rental Center (ERC,) and the Mountain Post Outfitters (MPO) Store. During busy times, I help with many of the daily duties of the staff, selling tickets and store inventory, scheduling and answering customer’s questions about programs, and helping customers with rental questions. I am also currently filling in for the MPO Store Clerk. This has given me the opportunity to sell equipment, complete monthly inventories, restock store inventory, and work on special order sales.
I also work with many of the staff within the entire MWR Recreation Division. I have had the opportunity to work on many special events, such as concerts, trips, and holiday events. During the busy summer months, I worked directly with the APE department running programs such as rafting, Youth Camps, mountain biking trips, hiking trips, and climbing programs. I also make briefings/ presentations to returning Soldiers, Family Readiness Groups (FRG’s), and other groups to inform our customers about and promote our programs.

List some of your responsibilities:
* Ticket and equipment sales, equipment rentals, and equipment maintenance
* Helping customers, answering questions, providing information about programs and local attractions
* Store inventory, stocking, and sales
* Sales register cash counts, Daily Activity Reports (DAR’s)
* RecTrac program maintenance
* Scheduling programs
* Facilitating programs
* Interviewing and hiring new employees
* Joint programming with other military installations in the local area
* Identifying and tasking work orders around the facilities
* Working with local Boy Scouts council to re-open a camping facility on-post

What do you like best about your job?
I really enjoy the variety of work at this facility. Every day is different, and constantly moving. At any one time, there are multiple programs running simultaneously, and plenty of other tasks to complete.

What training have you attended while in this position?
* Intern Leader Development Course
* Certified Program Planner (LERN I) Course
* Recreation Program Management Leadership Course
* Raft Guide Certification
* Basic Manager’s Course
* Army Manager’s Safety Course
* Composite Risk Management Basic Course
* Marketing Plans for Activity Managers Course
* Staff Judge Advocate Ethics Training
* Effective Army Writing Course
* Lean Six Sigma Training
* Applied Financial Planning Courses
* Action Officer Development Course
* NRPA Professional Conference
* Programming and Special Events Course
* AORE Professional Conference
* NAF Contracting Course
* Certified Parks and Recreation Professional Certification

How has your training helped you both personally and professionally?
My training through this program has taught me many necessary skills about the Army, MWR, and the associated activities. It has improved my knowledge of the professional recreation field, and has helped me understand the goals and mission of the MWR Recreation Division.

What types of decisions do you make in your current position?
I currently work with other employees to set up details for programs, ticket orders and sales, equipment inventory, rentals, sales, and other decisions. I am also responsible for nightly cash counts, hiring of new employees, program evaluations, and regular briefings to various groups.

What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them?
In many cases, most employees do not understand the management trainee program, and consider me an intern. I have worked to change that among the other employees I work with, and have shown how the program and my position are different. It can also be difficult to step into a management position without years of experience about certain program aspects, but I have always found other staff and managers who are willing to help me learn the specifics and solve any problems that arise.

What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this?
I hope to find a position as an Outdoor Recreation assistant facility manager, RDS programmer, or similar position.

Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development?
This program has been very beneficial to my career development. Some of the trainings have refreshed prior college courses, while other trainings have taught me new skills which are more applicable to this position. I think the program does an excellent job with the hands-on facility training.

Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations?
The program has exceeded my expectations. I have been able to work at the top Outdoor Recreation facility in the Army, and have received excellent training for my future career with MWR.

What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program?
This is a very in-depth and intense training program to prepare you for a career with Army MWR. Give 110% of yourself to the online, in-person, and on-the-job trainings, and work very closely with your trainer. They are willing to teach, and have a wealth of knowledge to share about MWR and your specific field.

Noelle Phillips
Community Recreation Management Trainee
Fort Benning, GA

Describe your typical day at work:

I arrive at work at 0800. I normally check e-mail for the first hour or two. After that, it truly varies from day to day. However, that is part of what I love about this job. It is never the same. One day I will be running around post picking things up for our Grand Opening of the new fitness facility, the next I will be at my desk all day doing administrative tasks. I typically work until 1700. I take an hour long lunch. I have learned that it is important to get away from the office for lunch or else you end up working through that hour.

List some of your responsibilities:
Right now I am responsible for the BOSS program. I am also training with the recreation center managers. When I first got here I filled in as the Outdoor Recreation Program Specialist. When I did that job I programmed all of the outdoor recreation trips and programs. Then I was put in charge of the Grand Opening of a 100,000 square foot, 18 million dollar SFC Paul R. Smith Fitness Center. I have also worked at every large scale special event that we have held on Fort Benning. I have worked everything from parking, to the token booth, to the VIP tent. I have worked hand in hand with the special event programmer and understand the process of setting up a day long event attended by 15,000 people from start to finish.

What do you like best about your job?
The thing I love best about my job is knowing without any doubt that I make a very real difference in lives every single day. Even if I am just directing parking at the Luau, that enables a family to participate in an activity together. I know that my job takes care of families, strengthens Soldiers and supports retirees. I personally have a very real tangible effect on the overall readiness of our Army here at Fort Benning. There is nothing in the world that can replace that feeling.

What training have you attended while in this position?
* US Army Drill Sergeant School Installation Staff and Contractors Training Course
* 2007 Fort Benning MWR Leadership Seminar
* AT Level 1 Awareness Training
* MWR Basic Management Course
* MWR Orientation Course
* Army Family Team Building Level I
* Army Family Team Building Level II
* US Constitution Day Course
* Drivers Improvement Program
* Red Cross First Aid
* Red Cross CPR
* Preventing Sexual Harassment
* Intern Leadership Development Course
* Recreation Program Management and Leadership Course
* Applied Financial Planning – Forecasting
* Applied Financial Planning – Breakeven Analysis
* Applied Financial Planning – Income Statement Analysis
* Applied Financial Planning – Retail Sales Accountability
* Fort Benning Environmental Documentation Training Course
* Marketing Plans for Activity Managers
* Effective Army Writing
* Action Officers Development Course
* The Learning Resource Network Certified Program Planner

How has your training helped you both personally and professionally?
Professionally I have learned skills that enable me to do my job in a more proficient manner. I have also done so much networking. I now have contacts from around the world. Personally many of these courses have reinforced time management as well as basic leadership skills that can be applied to my daily living. I have also made some life-long friends at these sessions.

What types of decisions do you make in your current position?
Currently I have been given a great deal of latitude in my job position. I make financial decisions, for example I was personally responsible for developing the BOSS budget for the 2008 fiscal year. I have also dealt with outside agencies in planning the Grand Opening of the SFC Paul R. Smith Fitness Center. I ultimately made all of the decisions relating to this large event. I have been empowered to make management level decisions on a daily basis.

What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them?
One of the biggest problems I have faced is that people sometimes feel as though I am infringing on their territory. Due to the nature of this program you are required to do things in areas that you typically do not work. Because of this sometimes the managers at these locations will take out there frustration on you as a trainee. You have to make it clear in the beginning that you are not there to step on toes, you are there to learn and assist. Once people see that you are willing to step up to any challenge you will find that you quickly earn their respect.

What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this?
My next step at this point is to start looking for jobs. I hope to stay here at Fort Benning. I am looking for an entry to mid level management position within the field of community recreation. I would love to continue working for the BOSS program and possibly Recreation Centers.

Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development?
This program has been extremely beneficial to my career. It allows individuals a foot in the door of the government work situation. It also fast tracks your career. Normally I would have to work for several years before even thinking about being promoted into the positions that I will be considered for after only 9 months of training. I have also had the opportunity to take a great deal of training. Most managers do not have two weeks that they can take off of work to go to a training class. This program ensures that you do have that time. Having worked for MWR for a good 7 months now, I realize how beneficial this program really is.

Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations?
The Program has greatly exceeded my expectations. I was hoping to get some basic training and a low level management job. Now I find that I have received extremely in-depth training, have been afforded some truly amazing opportunities, and am going to be entering the work force in a high level management position.

What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program?
Do it!!! You will not be disappointed. You may not make as much money right out of the gate as you would in the civilian sector, but no amount of money can make up for loving your job!!!

Management Trainee - A Day in the Life
Home Commander News About FMWRC Programs	James Alderson Human Resources Management Trainee Fort Carson, CO Describe your typical day at work: Flexibility is the key at the Ft. Carson NAF office. My day begins around 0730 hours. A daily strategy session with my Trainer is normally the first critical event of the day. Then I normally check my email and prioritize the responses; ensuring I respond to my Trainer’s requests first. I have yet to find myself encompassed with the same daily activities. Each day brings about newly found priorities that must be accomplished along with the other daily functions necessary to provide efficient service to the Ft. Carson community. List some of your responsibilities: * Staff meetings * Disciplinary actions * Rating applications * Career Referral Program (CRP) * Staff and personnel actions * In/Out processing employees * Mediate management/employee complaints * Assist in the preparation of the office budget * Compiling and editing various reports * Staff management * Special recruiting events * Advertising * Training coordinator * Wage survey * Other projects assigned by my Trainer that require immediate attention What do you like best about your job? I really must give mention to my Trainer, Debra Phillips. She has provided an environment full of challenges in which I am able to creatively accomplish many tasks. She has allowed me to grow professionally as well as personally. She brings much more to training than just the hands on portion. She facilitates training with her valuable knowledge and insight as to the effective management of a Human Resources office. I really enjoy the interaction amongst people in general, whether it is with the employees, managers, or the office staff. What training have you attended while in this position? * Standard First Aid/CPR-AED Course * Computer Users Security Course * MWR Orientation Course * Online Mentoring Training * Army Family Team Building, Level I, II, III * Rear Detachment Commander Computer Based Training * DOD U.S. Constitution Day Course * MWR Basic Management Course * NIH EEO, Disability Awareness Training * NIH EEO, Prevention of Sexual Harassment Training * Preventing Sexual Harassment * Basic NAF Contracting * Intern Leadership Development Course * Composite Risk Management (CRM) Basic Course * NIH Diversity Management Training * Managerial Business Ethics * Ethics and Professional Knowledge * Government Ethics * Prevention of Sexual Harassment/EEO for Supervisors * Applied Financial Planning * Effective Army Writing Course * Supervisor Development Course * Action Officer Development Course * HQDA IAA Virtual Training Course * Army Specific DAA Course * Thumb Drive Awareness Training Course * Army G3 Computer Security Training How has your training helped you both personally and professionally? The training I have received so far has been very beneficial in my quest to become an HR Manager both personally and professionally. Each training event has further advanced my knowledge base reference the HR profession. With the successful completion of each training event, I find myself more capable of providing efficient HR services to those I serve. What types of decisions do you make in your current position? Thus far, I have been given the authority to make accurate and timely decisions concerning, but not limited to; disciplinary actions, management/employee complaints, training requirements for management/employees, etc. What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them? I really haven’t been confronted with any so-called problems. I have been allowed to learn, grow, and develop personal characteristics conducive to managing an efficient Human Resources office. What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this? I am anticipating becoming a NAF HR Chief as the next major step outside of the Management Trainee Program. I don’t foresee any major challenges. In light of the current NAF HR vacancy situation, I do foresee some challenges in placement upon completion of the required training. But I look forward to the challenge of earning my position as a NAF HR Chief. Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development? The program has been exceptionally beneficial to me. I came to the program with a very limited amount of exposure to the HR profession outside of being educationally qualified to pursue a career within HR. The program has allowed me to get the hands-on expertise that is needed to perform at a high level of proficiency within a results-oriented environment. Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations? The program has certainly exceeded my expectations. This comment is based on my being placed with a great Trainer, Debra Phillips as well as the training being provided at Fort Carson, CO and formal schooling. What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program? I would advise anyone interested in the program to take the program seriously. It is a program designed for aggressive applicants willing to take on the challenge of learning and growing while managing to become a Manager. In the end, you will be rewarded for your efforts in a timely manner! Matt Enoch Recreation Management Trainee Fort Knox, KY Describe your typical day at work: One of the great things about this profession is that there is no typical day at work. I might be working on developing a program, completing a big project, working a large concert, taking a course on the computer, or attending a conference in some other state. The one thing that is typical is that there is always a need for a sharp focus. You must be able to focus on the task at hand, or you will not be able to keep up. List some of your responsibilities: * Serve as a member of the Fort Knox Recreational Delivery System team * Fulfill training requirements * Find and participate in activities that present learning opportunities What do you like best about your job? I love taking on extremely difficult projects as learning opportunities and then seeing them through until completion. Also, as a recreation professional, there’s nothing better than serving the men and women of the United States Army. What training have you attended while in this position? * FMWRC Basic Management Course * NAF Basic Contracting Course * Applied Financial Planning * Recreation Program Management and Leadership * Intern Leadership Development Course * RDS Program Management Institute Level I * Supervisor Development Course * Action Officer Development Course * Effective Army Writing * National Playground Safety Institute * Army Family Team Building How has your training helped you both personally and professionally? Personally, the training has improved my leadership and interpersonal skills. Professionally, I have learned about management within the Army, managing the workforce, and a superior method of providing recreation programs to the community. What types of decisions do you make in your current position? I’ve been able to use my independent judgment in completing projects or tasks because I have established credibility with my chain-of-command. Throughout most of my time here I have had several tasks and projects to work on at the same time. I have had to prioritize these and decide the order in which to complete them. What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them? The biggest problem I have faced is in the management of time. As a trainee, you will have a tremendous amount of work to accomplish and deadlines to meet, placed on you by people at your installation and those managing the training program at Headquarters. You can get behind very fast. I developed a system of prioritizing tasks and maintained a sharp focus. This allowed me to get done what I needed to do with quality. There are times when you just can’t do it all. As long as you can show that you have done your best, you will be fine. What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this? The next step for me is to become a manager within an installation’s community recreation division. The greatest challenge will be taking what I learned as a trainee and putting it into practice. There are some things that I will not have dealt with as a trainee, such as the actual supervision of employees. These are things I will have to adjust to and learn on the job. Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development? This is the best career decision that I have ever made. This agency truly cares about the development of their future workforce, and I feel very privileged to be a part of it. Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations? To this point in the training, my expectations have been exceeded. What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program? Sign up today and do whatever it takes to get in. If you are a person with no military experience and you are not the spouse of a Soldier, you will find it very difficult to make your way into the federal service. This program is a great way for qualified, motivated professionals to become permanent federal employees and receive invaluable experience and training. Once you get in, it’s up to you and you alone to make the most out of the program. Jeffery M. Helminiak Financial Management Trainee Fort Polk, LA Describe your typical day at work: My typical day is very busy. I usually get to work around 7:30 a.m. and finish at 4:30 p.m. I start by checking emails and responding if needed. I usually am working on any number of financial reports or briefing slides to present to the Director or the Garrison Commander. During the course of the day, I complete other tasks and troubleshoot any questions that activity managers have concerning financial issues. Lately, I have been assisting the Chief Financial Officer with preparing the FY 08 operating budget and preparing the review of insured exposures. List some of your responsibilities: * Assist with the budget process * Prepare various financial reports * Prepare tip reports for accounting purposes * Conduct Internal controls at all activities within the MWR * Manage the Child and Youth Services financial requirements * Serve as team leader regarding business improvement Lean Six Sigma projects What do you like best about your job? The best aspect of my job is working with all the divisions within the MWR. Working in the financial management division (FMD) gives a broad stroke of the entire organization. The FMD provides a constant challenge and gives me the chance to apply what I learned in college. In addition, working for the MWR gives me the opportunity to work on a military installation in support of Soldiers and their Families. What training have you attended while in this position (USE BULLETS)? * MWR Basic Management Course * MWR Orientation Course * Applied Financial Planning – Income Statement Analysis * Applied Financial Planning – Retail Sales Accountability * Applied Financial Planning – Forecasting * Applied Financial Planning – Breakeven Analysis * Intern Leadership Development Course * First Aid/CPR * Business Program Management and Leadership Course * Installation Management Command Business Improvement – Lean Six Sigma (BI-LSS) Green Belt Training How has your training helped you both personally and professionally? Working as a Management Trainee has helped me become more aware of my strengths and weaknesses. The training provided by MWR and the Department of the Army has given me the tools to build on my personal and professional development. Also, the training has given me an opportunity to meet other people inside the organization, which has given me a better perspective and understanding of our total mission. What types of decisions do you make in your current position? Currently, I decide how and when to conduct internal controls on the various MWR activities regarding financial oversight and key control. Also, I have been given the responsibility of financial oversight over the Child and Youth Services Division. What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them? Once I arrived to my duty station at Fort Polk, I wanted to take on as much as I could. The problem I encountered in the first couple of months was the uncertainty of the future. At first, I was able to fill my time by completing the necessary on-line training requirements. When I finished those requirements, I had trouble getting involved in the day-to-day operations of the Financial Management Office. However, as time progressed, I was afforded more responsibilities that related to financial management and oversight. I solved this problem by taking the initiative and I communicated my expectations to my trainer/mentor. As a result, I had the opportunity to assist in the preparation of the FY 2008 operating budget and reviewed the Risk Management Program. What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this? The next step in my career path is to apply for a position as a financial management analyst/specialist at my current duty station or at another Army Installation in the continental U.S. or Overseas. The greatest challenge will be to complete the On the Job (OJT) experience. Once that is complete, I have every confidence that the only challenge will be finding an opening for a financial analyst position. Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development? Absolutely, the NAF Management Trainee Program is a great way to get your foot in the door. The program offers trainees a chance to go to training, which contributes to career development and progression. Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations? The Management Trainee Program has met my expectations. What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program? If you want to pursue a career in federal service, you cannot beat working for the Army MWR. The pay allows for a comfortable life, the benefits are excellent, and the opportunity to travel around the world is real. Take full advantage of the training opportunities that may arise. Be sure to take the initiative and communicate your expectations with your mentor. Last, be prepared to commit yourself to the program and get involved in anyway you can. Conor Joyce Outdoor/Community Recreation Management Trainee Fort Cason, CO Describe your typical day at work: A typical day for me involves working on various upcoming programs which benefit the Ft. Carson community, soldiers, families, and others. I work at the Outdoor Recreation Complex, which is a very active program. During the day, I work with many of the staff in the Adventure Programs and Education (APE) area, the Information, Tickets, and Registrations (ITR) department, the Equipment Rental Center (ERC,) and the Mountain Post Outfitters (MPO) Store. During busy times, I help with many of the daily duties of the staff, selling tickets and store inventory, scheduling and answering customer’s questions about programs, and helping customers with rental questions. I am also currently filling in for the MPO Store Clerk. This has given me the opportunity to sell equipment, complete monthly inventories, restock store inventory, and work on special order sales. I also work with many of the staff within the entire MWR Recreation Division. I have had the opportunity to work on many special events, such as concerts, trips, and holiday events. During the busy summer months, I worked directly with the APE department running programs such as rafting, Youth Camps, mountain biking trips, hiking trips, and climbing programs. I also make briefings/ presentations to returning Soldiers, Family Readiness Groups (FRG’s), and other groups to inform our customers about and promote our programs. List some of your responsibilities: * Ticket and equipment sales, equipment rentals, and equipment maintenance * Helping customers, answering questions, providing information about programs and local attractions * Store inventory, stocking, and sales * Sales register cash counts, Daily Activity Reports (DAR’s) * RecTrac program maintenance * Scheduling programs * Facilitating programs * Interviewing and hiring new employees * Joint programming with other military installations in the local area * Identifying and tasking work orders around the facilities * Working with local Boy Scouts council to re-open a camping facility on-post What do you like best about your job? I really enjoy the variety of work at this facility. Every day is different, and constantly moving. At any one time, there are multiple programs running simultaneously, and plenty of other tasks to complete. What training have you attended while in this position? * Intern Leader Development Course * Certified Program Planner (LERN I) Course * Recreation Program Management Leadership Course * Raft Guide Certification * Basic Manager’s Course * Army Manager’s Safety Course * Composite Risk Management Basic Course * Marketing Plans for Activity Managers Course * Staff Judge Advocate Ethics Training * Effective Army Writing Course * Lean Six Sigma Training * Applied Financial Planning Courses * Action Officer Development Course * NRPA Professional Conference * Programming and Special Events Course * AORE Professional Conference * NAF Contracting Course * Certified Parks and Recreation Professional Certification How has your training helped you both personally and professionally? My training through this program has taught me many necessary skills about the Army, MWR, and the associated activities. It has improved my knowledge of the professional recreation field, and has helped me understand the goals and mission of the MWR Recreation Division. What types of decisions do you make in your current position? I currently work with other employees to set up details for programs, ticket orders and sales, equipment inventory, rentals, sales, and other decisions. I am also responsible for nightly cash counts, hiring of new employees, program evaluations, and regular briefings to various groups. What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them? In many cases, most employees do not understand the management trainee program, and consider me an intern. I have worked to change that among the other employees I work with, and have shown how the program and my position are different. It can also be difficult to step into a management position without years of experience about certain program aspects, but I have always found other staff and managers who are willing to help me learn the specifics and solve any problems that arise. What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this? I hope to find a position as an Outdoor Recreation assistant facility manager, RDS programmer, or similar position. Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development? This program has been very beneficial to my career development. Some of the trainings have refreshed prior college courses, while other trainings have taught me new skills which are more applicable to this position. I think the program does an excellent job with the hands-on facility training. Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations? The program has exceeded my expectations. I have been able to work at the top Outdoor Recreation facility in the Army, and have received excellent training for my future career with MWR. What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program? This is a very in-depth and intense training program to prepare you for a career with Army MWR. Give 110% of yourself to the online, in-person, and on-the-job trainings, and work very closely with your trainer. They are willing to teach, and have a wealth of knowledge to share about MWR and your specific field. Noelle Phillips Community Recreation Management Trainee Fort Benning, GA Describe your typical day at work: I arrive at work at 0800. I normally check e-mail for the first hour or two. After that, it truly varies from day to day. However, that is part of what I love about this job. It is never the same. One day I will be running around post picking things up for our Grand Opening of the new fitness facility, the next I will be at my desk all day doing administrative tasks. I typically work until 1700. I take an hour long lunch. I have learned that it is important to get away from the office for lunch or else you end up working through that hour. List some of your responsibilities: Right now I am responsible for the BOSS program. I am also training with the recreation center managers. When I first got here I filled in as the Outdoor Recreation Program Specialist. When I did that job I programmed all of the outdoor recreation trips and programs. Then I was put in charge of the Grand Opening of a 100,000 square foot, 18 million dollar SFC Paul R. Smith Fitness Center. I have also worked at every large scale special event that we have held on Fort Benning. I have worked everything from parking, to the token booth, to the VIP tent. I have worked hand in hand with the special event programmer and understand the process of setting up a day long event attended by 15,000 people from start to finish. What do you like best about your job? The thing I love best about my job is knowing without any doubt that I make a very real difference in lives every single day. Even if I am just directing parking at the Luau, that enables a family to participate in an activity together. I know that my job takes care of families, strengthens Soldiers and supports retirees. I personally have a very real tangible effect on the overall readiness of our Army here at Fort Benning. There is nothing in the world that can replace that feeling. What training have you attended while in this position? * US Army Drill Sergeant School Installation Staff and Contractors Training Course * 2007 Fort Benning MWR Leadership Seminar * AT Level 1 Awareness Training * MWR Basic Management Course * MWR Orientation Course * Army Family Team Building Level I * Army Family Team Building Level II * US Constitution Day Course * Drivers Improvement Program * Red Cross First Aid * Red Cross CPR * Preventing Sexual Harassment * Intern Leadership Development Course * Recreation Program Management and Leadership Course * Applied Financial Planning – Forecasting * Applied Financial Planning – Breakeven Analysis * Applied Financial Planning – Income Statement Analysis * Applied Financial Planning – Retail Sales Accountability * Fort Benning Environmental Documentation Training Course * Marketing Plans for Activity Managers * Effective Army Writing * Action Officers Development Course * The Learning Resource Network Certified Program Planner How has your training helped you both personally and professionally? Professionally I have learned skills that enable me to do my job in a more proficient manner. I have also done so much networking. I now have contacts from around the world. Personally many of these courses have reinforced time management as well as basic leadership skills that can be applied to my daily living. I have also made some life-long friends at these sessions. What types of decisions do you make in your current position? Currently I have been given a great deal of latitude in my job position. I make financial decisions, for example I was personally responsible for developing the BOSS budget for the 2008 fiscal year. I have also dealt with outside agencies in planning the Grand Opening of the SFC Paul R. Smith Fitness Center. I ultimately made all of the decisions relating to this large event. I have been empowered to make management level decisions on a daily basis. What problems have you come against as a management trainee and how have you solved them? One of the biggest problems I have faced is that people sometimes feel as though I am infringing on their territory. Due to the nature of this program you are required to do things in areas that you typically do not work. Because of this sometimes the managers at these locations will take out there frustration on you as a trainee. You have to make it clear in the beginning that you are not there to step on toes, you are there to learn and assist. Once people see that you are willing to step up to any challenge you will find that you quickly earn their respect. What is the next likely step in your career path and what challenges do you face in achieving this? My next step at this point is to start looking for jobs. I hope to stay here at Fort Benning. I am looking for an entry to mid level management position within the field of community recreation. I would love to continue working for the BOSS program and possibly Recreation Centers. Has the NAF Management Trainee Program been beneficial to you and your career development? This program has been extremely beneficial to my career. It allows individuals a foot in the door of the government work situation. It also fast tracks your career. Normally I would have to work for several years before even thinking about being promoted into the positions that I will be considered for after only 9 months of training. I have also had the opportunity to take a great deal of training. Most managers do not have two weeks that they can take off of work to go to a training class. This program ensures that you do have that time. Having worked for MWR for a good 7 months now, I realize how beneficial this program really is. Has the NAF Management Trainee Program met or exceeded your expectations? The Program has greatly exceeded my expectations. I was hoping to get some basic training and a low level management job. Now I find that I have received extremely in-depth training, have been afforded some truly amazing opportunities, and am going to be entering the work force in a high level management position. What would your advice be to anyone interested in signing up for the NAF Management Trainee Program? Do it!!! You will not be disappointed. You may not make as much money right out of the gate as you would in the civilian sector, but no amount of money can make up for loving your job!!! [Return to Management Trainee] [Return to Human Resources]
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Management Trainee - A Day in the Life