IFMA’s Post

When SgtMaj Meltesen and I were the command team of 3d Marines we tackled the longstanding retention challenge of the regiment with the highest deployment to dwell issue in the following steps. The results were very positive, a regiment that had struggled for years to meet the retention goal transformed itself. Here were the steps that made it possible (simultaneous actions with a bias for action): 1. Command priority: We spoke with all levels about why we weren't retaining the Marines we needed. At Monthly Staff meetings each units metrics were displayed. Subordinate commanders' challenges were discussed and action items created and tackled. 2. We brought the career planners in from the Regiment to work with HQMC or on their own to create the talking point products (cheat sheets) for every level of the command. 3. We created simple products that NCOs, SNCOs, Junior Officers, and all hands could use to talk to the Marines we needed to retain. We initiated the retention discussion at onboarding, instead of just signing a check-in sheet, various entities now had talking points to share with new joins, whether they be first time enlistees, or career Marines. 4. We informed all the SNCOs and Officers of the Regiment that every Marine was a retention specialist and we explained the expectations and enabled them to take the initiative. 5. We worked with our senior headquarters and Marine Corps Manpower to find solutions unique and to the benefit of the Marines we wanted to retain. 6. We tried to empower our NCOs as much as we could, such as allowing them to certify as non-live fire range safety officers. We energized our promotion system, turned the standard meritorious selection panel board into a combat physical application test where candidates had to not only look good in uniform they had to perform warfighting tasks under pressure and they were graded by Marines of the rank they wanted to be; Corporals and Sergeants. SgtMaj and other SNCOs manned the selection board and we added the Non-Commissioned Officers who got a vote on who should join their ranks. 8. And we talked to Marines wherever they were. Even in the field, if a Marine wanted to discuss his options, we called in the career planner on the spot (point of service at the customers convenience). Anecdote: One of our SNCOs would ask the young Marines in front of the Marine we wanted to retain if they thought he was a good leader and if he should reenlist and why? When those young NCOs heard the impact they were having on their Marines a paradigm shift often happened in front of us. Summary: There is no secret to talent retention, you have to care, and you have to have a plan. It is not HR or the Career Planners job, it is every member of the organization's job to identify, engage, and retain the best. What gets paid attention to, gets done. Good hunting Marines, we need the best.

The OODA loop is a decision-making model developed by military strategist and United States Air Force Colonel John Boyd. Does it work for our career? Guess it does. What is the OODA Loop Model? Observe – collect current information from as many sources as practically possible. Orient – analyze this information, and use it to update your current reality. Decide – determine a course of action. Act – follow through on your decision.

Today, I salute the men and women of our armed forces who not only serve our country but also strive to better themselves through education. The commitment to learning while balancing the demands of military service is truly commendable. Education and knowledge are powerful tools, and by investing in your intellectual growth, you're not only enhancing your own future but also contributing to the strength and effectiveness of our military. Whether you're studying while deployed, attending classes on base, or taking advantage of educational benefits after service, your dedication inspires many. Your decision to pursue education amidst the challenges of military life displays resilience, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As you expand your knowledge and skills, you're not just shaping your own path; you're also enriching our armed forces and the communities you serve. The sacrifice for personal and professional development is worth it. Keep striving.

If you’re attending #APCO2023, don’t miss our debrief tomorrow at 2:30p where we’ll discuss the lessons learned from the 2021 military jet crash in Lake Worth. This presentation is a part of the emergency preparedness track, and will undoubtedly improve your department’s readiness. Let’s do this! Texas APCO, APCO International

Colleagues and Partners - These photos illustrate how the US Navy and Naval Aviation develop both hard skills and soft skills in Navy servicemembers, by achieving a balance between experience and potential. Through extensive training and safety programs based on specific skill sets, requirements, and performance measures, which focus on coordination and communication to emphasize teamwork and team players, the process of handling, launching, and recovering carrier aircraft in a complex environment is made as safe, efficient, and effective as possible. That’s what the “Yellow Shirts” are doing in the pictures, communicating with and directing the pilots in aircraft that you don’t see. These are the types of programs, processes, and people to consider in any endeavor. If you are looking to add to your team and would like to speak with competent and confident talented servicemembers who have exhibited the courage to develop and demonstrate hard skills and soft skills in a demanding and dangerous environment, contact us: www.return2homeport.com. Photo credit: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Justin McTaggart. The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement. #servicemembers #teamwork #army #navy #airforce #marines #spaceforce #coastguard

Bridging the Gap Between Military and Civilian Careers The transition from military to civilian life is more than just a career shift; it’s about finding a new purpose. Covenant of Courage is dedicated to bridging this gap by leveraging the unique skills and discipline veterans bring to the table. Let's connect to explore how these talents can enrich your organization. https://buff.ly/464x4vI

Mastering the IT Certification Terrain: A Definitive Handbook for Military Professionals Unlock a successful transition from military service to IT careers with our comprehensive guide. Explore top certifications and leverage CertWizard for exam success. https://lnkd.in/ezvuFUbD

As a Senior Materiel Leader working Foreign Military Sales in Air Force Materiel Command, I have a responsibility to ensure that we watch every dollar our partners trust the US government with. That includes ensuring that the fees for contracts we award are fair and reasonable. I once worked in industry (and plan to again one day) and I very much appreciate the importance of profit and loss. I want and need healthy contractors to support our enterprise. That said, it’s counterproductive when OEM’s propose fees beyond our weighted guidelines. It often delays contract award which means critical capabilities are delayed to the field. Let’s work together to set fees based on the risk, rather than what your company believes they should receive based on internal profit goals. In the end, it helps us move faster, which is of paramount importance as threats grow globally from peer and near-peer nations.

#USARMY Global Top Army Overview: USA Leads the Way In the dynamic landscape of global military prowess, the United States Armed Forces stand tall as the unequivocal leader, showcasing unparalleled strength, technological superiority, and strategic capabilities. This overview delves into key aspects of the U.S. military and offers a comparative analysis with other prominent armies worldwide. U.S. Military Dominance: The United States boasts the world's most formidable military force, encompassing the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force. With a commitment to innovation and a vast defense budget, the U.S. military consistently invests in cutting-edge technology, ensuring it remains at the forefront of global defense capabilities. Technological Superiority: The U.S. military leverages advanced technology, including sophisticated weaponry, cyber capabilities, and state-of-the-art surveillance systems. This technological prowess not only enhances the effectiveness of military operations but also serves as a deterrent to potential adversaries. Strategic Global Presence: Maintaining a strategic global presence, the U.S. military operates in key regions to safeguard national interests and support allies. Forward-deployed bases, naval task forces, and air assets enable the United States to respond swiftly to emerging threats and crises worldwide. Columvise Comparison: In a Columvise comparison, the U.S. military's strength is underscored by its comprehensive capabilities across land, sea, air, and space domains. The synergy between different branches allows for coordinated and multifaceted responses to a wide range of challenges. This holistic approach sets the U.S. military apart, enabling it to adapt to evolving geopolitical dynamics with agility and precision. Conclusion: As a global military powerhouse, the United States Army sets the standard for excellence and readiness. Its commitment to innovation, technological superiority, and strategic agility ensures that the U.S. military remains a formidable force, ready to address the complexities of the modern security landscape. #USAMilitary #GlobalLeadership #MilitaryDominance #TechnologicalSuperiority #StrategicPresence

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