On April 9, 2025, Rebecca Kaas, a Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) specialist with CareerForce Veterans Employment Services, enrolled 36-year-old Air Force Veteran Anthony, who had separated from service in 2019. For most of the time since he left active duty, Anthony worked as a self-employed project management consultant. He determined he would like to work for an employer and that’s why he turned to CareerForce Veterans Employment Services.
Though excited to return to Minnesota, Anthony missed the camaraderie and shared mission of military life. “Being forced to shift my mindset and reevaluate my sense of purpose was a big part of the journey,” he shared.
Anthony was also apprehensive about navigating the civilian job market. “I was concerned about my ability to translate my skills and experience into a new career,” he admitted.
Rebecca stepped in with personalized support—teaching Anthony how to target his resume for specific positions, prepare for interviews, and connect with job search resources. After a few weeks of working together, Anthony began to see progress. “I had a better understanding of what a well-tailored resume looks like. The mock interview helped me build confidence and realize I was qualified for my career goal of Project Manager.”
On August 29, 2025, Rebecca sent Anthony a job posting for an Assistant Project Manager (APM) role at States Manufacturing Corporation in Champlin, Minnesota. He applied, and Rebecca forwarded his resume to Local Veterans Employment Representative (LVER) Stephen Kolcinski, who made a referral.
Anthony was invited to interview—first on September 5, then again five days later with the Project Management Office (PMO) Director. Nearly three weeks later, he received an offer—not for the APM role, but for a higher-paying Technical Project Manager position. He began his new role on October 6, 2025, with a 50% higher starting salary and full benefits.
To fellow Veterans, Anthony offers this advice: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. I couldn’t have done this without Rebecca and Stephen. It was a team effort.”
- If you are a veteran looking for career planning or job search assistance, please contact your CareerForce Veterans Employment Representative.
