Chris Mercado developed unique skills during his service in the U.S. Air Force, but when he began his transition into civilian life, anxiety quickly set in as he found it difficult to translate his valuable set of skills to the civilian workforce and lacked the network of contacts to draw upon.

“It was like trying to navigate my way through a black hole,” said Mercado. “I didn’t know anyone, and I would apply for jobs at companies and never hear back.”

Two years ago, Mercado found a program that helped him overcome these obstacles and put him on the path to success. It’s called Edge4Vets and it is currently being offered by Houston Airports as an online workshop series. Veterans learn how to create a four-part PLAN4SUCCESS that includes statements in each of these four areas: Vision, Values, Skills and Action. The online workshop series is sponsored by the Human Resiliency Institute at Fordham University through a partnership with Airports Council International-North America.

“Edge4Vets prepared me for the civilian workplace but most importantly it introduced me to the HR recruiters and hiring managers that gave me the support and feedback I needed to succeed.” Said Mercado.

Don Kostecki is now a senior airport services representative for terminal operations at Bush Airport. He experienced first-hand the challenges veterans face to obtain employment but now attributes his recent hire to the Edge4Vets program at Houston Airports. After completing the program last fall, Kostecki wants to motivate fellow veterans to participate.

“Finding employment after being in the military is like a marathon,” said Kostecki. “Sometimes it can feel like you are not even on the right track but being mentored and encouraged by the program made all the difference. I’m glad I listened to my wife and enrolled in the program. I would encourage all veterans to enroll in Edge4Vets program.”

For the Workforce Innovation & Development, WID, Division at Houston Airports, Edge4Vets is a resource that strengthens the airport community, while serving a diverse group of veterans.

“Our airports benefit from the skills, strengths and values of the veterans who enter our workforce,” said Brant Gary, Houston Airports Deputy Director of WID. “Edge4Vets is providing a valuable service to the ex-military community, and we are proud to support veterans’ transition into the civilian workforce.”

Houston Airports partnership with Edge4Vets is an effort to identify talented personnel for local aviation jobs while ensuring that the right consideration is given to those who have fought and served the nation. For more information about Edge4Vets, visit http://www.edge4vets.org. 

This spring, the Edge4Vets workshop series starts April 14. Registration is open and we are looking for veterans, who are ready to transition back to civilian life. TO REGISTER CLICK HERE. Registration is FREE.