My education journey: Education helps Airman transition to civilian profession

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Julius Delos Reyes
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
Editor's note: This article is the fifth in a seven-part series highlighting the journey of Edwards Airmen in completing their education. Part six of the series is scheduled for publication Nov. 13. 

After 20 years in the Air Force, a master sergeant retired from the service May 2003 to explore other possibilities as a civilian. Transitioning to his new life, he was armed with his Air Force experience on one hand, while he had his education in the other. 

Throughout his military career, Vincent Duny invested time and effort on his education to ensure a future awaited him either in the Air Force or the civilian world. 

"You just have to do it," said Mr. Duny, Air Force Flight Test Center Ground Safety chief. But in completing his education, he took a gradual approach. 

He joined the Air Force in 1982 as an aircraft maintainer and started working on his first Community College of the Air Force degree a year later. During this time, he endured a rotating schedule of night and day shifts every three months as well as balancing family life. He attended classes during his off-duty days, and in 1992, he received his aircraft systems maintenance technology degree. 

"It was difficult," Mr. Duny said. "Time management was the key as well as family support." 

After five years, he received his second CCAF degree in Safety. He then received his Bachelor of Arts in 1999 and his Master in Aeronautical Science in 2003. 

After retiring, Mr. Duny took a job with a construction company as a safety officer. Then in March 2004, he accepted a position with the Department of the Air Force as a ground safety specialist at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii. Finally, he joined Team Edwards to be part of AFFTC Safety staff in 2006. 

"I was accepted because of my education," he said. "When I was looking for a job while I was active duty, my interviewer told me that they don't care when I retire. The day I retire is the day they will hire me because of my education." 

According to Claudia Stover, Airman and Family Readiness Center, education makes the difference between getting hired and being passed over. Educated Airmen transitioning out of the military have an extra edge, especially in a tough job market. 

"Most companies, depending on the skill level they are seeking, do pay attention to educational background -- not just as an indicator of specific knowledge about the job, but also it shows perseverance and ability to follow through and finish something," Ms. Stover said. 

Education opens doors for Airmen, she said. Their military experience and lifestyle plus education make for a winning combination. 

"When you get out, they don't call you airman, sergeant or chief," Mr. Duny said. "But being a servicemember with a diploma, it gives you an advantage because you have an experience and a degree. Airmen should take time and just complete their degree."