D.B.A.  Baker College (Michigan), 2014.
Specialization:  Military studies, Management

Effective transfer of military training to the civilian workforce of enlisted personnel
107 pages. UMI #: 3643780
Citation, Abstract & Full text in ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Database

Soldiers leave the military to enter the civilian work force but may find themselves without the necessary skills to find employment. In this study the researcher assessed the effectiveness of training U.S. Army soldiers receive from the military for obtaining employment in the civilian workforce. The study was based on Nonaka's theory of knowledge creation. Research questions addressed skills and training enlisted service members acquired or wish they had acquired while in service as well as skills employers require for employment in the civilian workforce. The researcher interviewed 10 current and 10 prior enlisted service members from Fort Polk, Louisiana, about the skills and training they received in the armed services and their transition to the civilian work environment. Additionally 10 employers from Fort Polk and Leesville, Louisiana, were interviewed regarding skills needed in today's civilian workforce. Interviews were coded for themes by the researcher and a colleague along with NVivo. Analysis of the data indicated that soldiers received a strong baseline of knowledge from the military that can transfer to civilian employment. Soldiers found two services that were instrumental in their transition: assistance with job searching and resume writing skills. Another area of concern was the need for certification in a particular skill area for employment. Prior service members credited their supervisory experience as an asset for receiving employment. Employers wanted potential employees with strong work ethics and persons who can lead others and be part of a team.

• Bernice Folz, Ph.D., Chair
• Peggy Houghton, Ph.D.
• Helen Bojarczyk, Ph.D.