MILITARY EDUCATION  (DoD Voluntary Education Program)

Between 2006 and 2016, the National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics (NCVAS) noted a significant rise in student veterans utilizing VA benefits for advanced educational opportunities, soaring from 500,000 to 1,000,000. Concurrently, the Million Records Project, a collaborative effort between the Department of Veterans Affairs, the National Student Clearinghouse, and Student Veterans of America, analyzed data on nearly one million veterans over a decade.

In the critical field of military and veteran education, Vernon Taylor Enterprises Alliance (VTE) stands out as a valuable resource. With a growing number of student veterans seeking educational pathways, there’s a clear demand for specialized support. Leveraging extensive expertise and connections in the military, veteran, and Department of Defense (DoD) higher education sectors, VTE is uniquely positioned to offer tailored recommendations and strategies to academic institutions.

Vernon Taylor’s diverse career in military education includes roles such as President of Workforce Training & Education, Learning Center Director, and Equal Employment Opportunity Counselor. Notably, he served as the Director of Off Duty Voluntary Education at Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps, overseeing academic and transition programs for over 186,000 Marines and their families.

His contributions include pioneering initiatives like the Sailor-Marine American Council on Education Registry Transcript (SMART), now the Joint Services Transcript (JST), which facilitates the recognition of military training for college credit. He also revamped the Navy Apprenticeship Program, now the United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP), in partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor. As the Associate Vice President of Military Programs for National University, he expanded military student enrollment and improved student services.

By addressing the evident need for institutions to adapt and improve their offerings for veterans, VTE plays a crucial role in fostering a supportive learning environment for those who have served. This not only benefits veterans but also enhances the reputation and inclusivity of educational institutions.

EMPOWERING BUSINESSES THROUGH CYBERSECURITY

In today’s digital age, the importance of robust cybersecurity measures cannot be overstated.  Statistics reveal a harsh reality: 44% of small businesses have fallen victim to cyberattacks, with many unaware of breaches within their networks. This partnership between VTEA and TCS aims to address this pressing issue head-on, offering a shield against evolving cyber threats.

Recognizing this imperative, Vernon Taylor Enterprise Alliance (VTEA) has joined forces with Total Cyber Solution (TCS), a leading provider of cybersecurity and IT services, to offer comprehensive protection to businesses. 

With over 20 years of experience in the Defense, Government, and Private sectors, TCS is renowned for its expertise in Vulnerability Assessments, Penetration Testing, and Managed Cybersecurity Services. Their commitment to NIST standards ensures the highest level of security for clients’ computing environments.  At the core of TCS’s mission is the enhancement of businesses’ security posture, optimization of Cybersecurity Return on Investment (ROI), and advocacy for best security practices. Their comprehensive services include Vulnerability Assessment, Penetration Testing, Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), Managed Cybersecurity Services, Policy Compliance, and Cloud Services.

By leveraging VTE’s business consultancy expertise alongside TCS’s cybersecurity proficiency, this collaboration delivers unparalleled value to clients. Together, they empower businesses to navigate the digital landscape with confidence, ensuring their assets are safeguarded against evolving cyber risks.

In a world where cyber threats are ever-present, proactive measures are essential. With VTE and TCS as partners, businesses can fortify their defenses and thrive in the digital age.

Home – Total Cyber Solutions Training Site!

NAVIGATION IT DESIGN AND TRAINING DEVELOPMENT

In today’s rapidly evolving IT landscape, organizations face a myriad of challenges that demand comprehensive solutions to stay competitive and secure. VTE, in collaboration with MediaTech, offers tailored solutions to meet these challenges by leveraging their expertise in training development, project management, and innovative design processes.

Cybersecurity Training: With the proliferation of cyber threats, organizations require robust cybersecurity training programs to educate employees of potential risks and best practices for mitigation. MediaTech delivers tailored cybersecurity training modules that are immersive, interactive, and up-to-date with the latest threat landscape, equipping employees with the knowledge and skills to safeguard against cyber-attacks.

Agile Transformation: As organizations transition to Agile methodologies to enhance collaboration and responsiveness in software development, MediaTech can provide comprehensive Agile transformation solutions. Through Agile training programs and project management support, they help organizations navigate the transition smoothly, fostering a culture of agility and innovation.

Remote Workforce Training:  The shift towards remote work necessitates equipping employees with the tools and skills to thrive in virtual environments. MediaTech develops remote workforce training programs that are accessible, engaging, and tailored to the unique challenges of remote work, enabling employees to remain productive and connected regardless of their location.

Digital Transformation: Organizations embarking on digital transformation initiatives require upskilling employees and fostering a culture of innovation. MediaTech offers customized training programs that align with organizational goals, promoting digital literacy and empowering employees to drive digital transformation initiatives forward.

Compliance Training: With evolving compliance regulations and standards, organizations must ensure employees are adequately trained on compliance policies and procedures. MediaTech delivers compliance training solutions that are comprehensive, up-to-date, and tailored to industry-specific requirements, mitigating the risk of non-compliance and associated penalties.

User Experience (UX) Design:  Meeting user expectations for intuitive and seamless digital experiences is paramount for organizations. MediaTech prioritizes UX design in their solutions, delivering user-centric designs that enhance usability and drive customer satisfaction, ultimately contributing to business success.

In summary, VTE’s collaboration with MediaTech offers holistic solutions to address today’s IT challenges, combining expertise in training development, project management, and innovative design processes to empower organizations to thrive in an increasingly digital and competitive landscape.

 Products and Services – MediaTech (mediatechinc.com)0

HIGH SCHOOL COMPLETION

In 2020, nationwide there were about 1.98 million high school dropouts.  Many students who leave high school do not leave because they did not have the capability to learn.  Many students y leave to help support the family’s economy, to become a parent, are bored or for other reasons.  The adults that have been out of high school for several years, are now older and more mature—they now have a different life-realization, and some want to make a life change.

The Impact of Not having a High School Diploma or GED have a negative impact on the community as well as the individual.  Those without a high school diploma may also discover that positions that don’t require the completion of high school are scarce and a lot less desirable than jobs that require their workers to have their diploma.  Recent numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics indicate high school dropouts are nearly three times more likely to be unemployed than college graduates.  The poverty rate for dropouts is more than twice as high as college grads.

The National Dropout Prevention Center reports that 82 percent of U.S. prisoners are high school dropouts.  The Impact of Not having a High School Diploma or GED have a negative impact on the community as well as the individual.  Those without a high school diploma may also discover that positions that don’t require the completion of high school are scarce and a lot less desirable than jobs that require their workers to have their diploma.

Recent numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics indicate high school dropouts are nearly three times more likely to be unemployed than college graduates.  The poverty rate for dropouts is more than twice as high as college grads.  The National Dropout Prevention Center reports that 82 percent of U.S. prisoners are high school dropouts.

Young black men between the ages of 20 and 24 who lack a high school diploma, or a GED are more likely to be in jail than they are to have a job. Rumberger’s research  Russ Rumberger is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Education)  indicates that those who fail to earn a high school diploma are five to six times more likely to serve jail or prison time.

VTE Support

High School Completion

Background

Impact of Not Having a High School Diploma or GED

• Employment and Economic Disparities: High school dropouts face higher unemployment rates, nearly three times more likely than college graduates. They are often limited to low-paying and less desirable jobs. The poverty rate for dropouts is more than twice as high as for those with college degrees.
• Incarceration Rates: According to the National Dropout Prevention Center, 82% of U.S. prisoners are high school dropouts. Young black men aged 20-24 without a diploma or GED are more likely to be incarcerated than employed. Research by Russ Rumberger indicates that individuals without a high school diploma are five to six times more likely to serve jail or prison time.
• Community Impact: High dropout rates contribute to broader social and economic challenges within communities, including increased crime rates and higher public assistance costs.

Strategies to Address High School Dropout through VTEA Support

To combat the high dropout rates and support those seeking to complete their high school education, the following strategies leveraging the Vocational and Technical Education Act (VTE) can be implemented:

1. Develop Flexible Learning Programs:

• Online and Evening Classes: Offer online and evening classes to accommodate those who need to work during the day or have other responsibilities.
• Modular Learning: Create modular learning programs that allow students to progress at their own pace, making it easier for those with irregular schedules to complete their education.

2. Provide Financial Support and Incentives:

• Scholarships and Grants: Offer scholarships and grants specifically for high school dropouts returning to complete their education.
• Stipends for Attendance: Provide stipends or financial incentives for consistent attendance and progress in their courses.

3. Implement Comprehensive Support Services:

• Counseling and Mentorship: Establish counseling and mentorship programs to provide emotional and academic support.
• Career Guidance: Offer career guidance services to help students understand the long-term benefits of completing their education and explore career opportunities that align with their interests and skills.

4. Enhance Vocational and Technical Training:

• Job-Ready Skills: Integrate vocational and technical training programs that equip students with job-ready skills, increasing their employability and motivation to complete their education.
• Partnerships with Local Businesses: Form partnerships with local businesses to provide internships and apprenticeships that offer real-world experience and potential employment opportunities.

5. Create Community Awareness Campaigns:

• Public Awareness: Launch community awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of completing high school and the resources available through VTEA.
• Success Stories: Share success stories of individuals who returned to complete their education and achieved personal and professional success.

6. Leverage Technology and Innovation:

• E-Learning Platforms: Utilize e-learning platforms to deliver engaging and interactive educational content.
• Data Analytics: Use data analytics to track student progress and identify those at risk of dropping out, enabling timely intervention and support.

CERTIFICATIONS

Certifications play a crucial role in career advancement, offering various benefits such as increased job prospects, higher salaries, and improved job performance and engagement. They serve as valuable additions to resumes, demonstrating commitment to professional growth and expertise. Additionally, certifications can open doors to higher-paying positions and facilitate career transitions, even for individuals without specific degrees.

One significant development supporting this initiative is the Bipartisan Workforce Pell Act, which seeks to expand Federal Pell Grant eligibility to short-term workforce programs. Under this act, eligible students enrolled in approved workforce programs can receive Workforce Pell Grants, provided they meet specific criteria outlined in the legislation.

In a competitive job market, having relevant and up-to-date professional certifications can make a significant difference in achieving career goals and staying ahead of industry trends. Therefore, it’s essential for individuals to choose certifications that align with their career objectives and interests, ensuring they remain competitive and adaptable in their chosen field.

The collaboration between VTE and Preppy in providing Professional Certification training is a strategic response to the increasing demand for skilled professionals in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. This partnership aims to offer cutting-edge programs that align with the changing needs of the workforce.

Certification Programs – Preppy

VETERANS TRANSITION

Transitioning from military to civilian life is among the most formidable challenges individuals can face. The process can be daunting without adequate information and support. Thankfully, there are exceptional resources available from various organizations—federal, private, state, and local—that offer valuable assistance to those transitioning out of the military.

Returning veterans encounter numerous hurdles upon coming home, including feelings of isolation, a fractured sense of identity, cultural disparities between military and civilian life, limited professional and social networks, a lack of civilian work experience, difficulties translating military skills into civilian job qualifications, and sadly, the risk of veteran suicide.

Many of us express frustration at feeling ill-prepared for the job market and struggle to articulate our military experiences in civilian terms.

In response to these challenges, Vernon Taylor Enterprises (VTE) has embarked on the mission of “Bridging The Gap,” recognizing that transitioning is not just about finding a job but entails a lifelong journey of adapting to ever-changing circumstances. To aid in overcoming these obstacles, VTE collaborates with the National Veterans Transition Services, Inc. (NVTSI).

Founded by retired high-ranking Naval and Marine Corps officers, workforce development professionals, and social scientists, NVTSI is committed to addressing gaps in veteran services. Established in 2010 as a California-based private sector non-profit 501(c)3 organization, NVTSI, also known as REBOOT, focuses on assisting transitioning active-duty personnel, recently separated service members, guard/reservists, veterans, and military spouses. Their goal is to equip individuals with the emotional, psychological, social, and professional skills necessary for a successful reintegration into civilian life.

Veterans Job Support Placement (JOB SET)

Numerous platforms, programs, and initiatives aim to support job seekers, especially veterans, but they often offer fragmented data, causing confusion for both veterans and time-strapped businesses. Current job search tools for service members primarily rely on military occupational specialties, failing to capture the full range of their experiences. Moreover, smaller businesses lack the resources to create detailed skills profiles matching their hiring needs.

To address these challenges, a centralized verification system for employers is proposed. This system would automatically match employers with databases indicating their status as Federal contractors, recipients of HIRE Vets Medallion, or other relevant credentials, ensuring transparency and credibility.

JOBSET, a practical application, integrates with existing NVTSI resources to support employers in hiring and retaining veterans. It aims to address the common issue where transitioning service members struggle to find suitable civilian employment. The Retention Challenge focuses on guiding employers to make informed hiring decisions tailored to the unique needs of veterans.

This challenge intersects with the Recruiting Work Group’s efforts, highlighting the need for programs that aid military-connected individuals in transitioning to civilian employment within their local communities. NVTSI aims to identify solutions that bridge this gap.

As employers strengthen their support structures for veterans, they enhance their understanding of the value these individuals bring to their organizations.

With over 30 years of experience in the military transition arena,  VTE, in collaboration with NVTSI, is committed to helping veterans transition successfully, adapt to civilian life, and secure meaningful employment by leveraging evidence-based social solutions and technologies.

Center for Veterans & Military Reintegration (CMVR)

Announcing our proud partnership with National Veterans Transition Services, Inc. (NVTSI), also known as REBOOT, Vernon Taylor Enterprise Alliance (VTEA) is committed to leading the charge in assisting military personnel transitioning into civilian life. With approximately 200,000 individuals undergoing this transition annually, our alliance is dedicated not only to supporting veterans and their families but also to addressing the broader societal challenges associated with their reintegration.

Today’s military veterans carry with them strong personal and social identities forged by their service. While these qualities are commendable, they can pose significant challenges during the transition to civilian life. Our Center for Military Veteran Reintegration (CMVR) initiative aims to bridge this gap by providing veterans with the resources, training, and support necessary for a successful transition.

At the heart of our collaboration lies the CMVR, operational “ECO-CENTERS” designed to offer comprehensive support to veterans and their spouses. These centers, aligned with the Navy SEAL Chief Petty Officer William ‘Bill’ Mulder (Ret.) Transition Improvement Act of 2021, represent a transformative departure from traditional service delivery models, providing integrated and holistic reintegration services.

A key component of our CMVR initiative is a tailored program developed by NVTSI, aimed at addressing veteran reintegration issues within local communities. Our CMVR site will serve as a pivotal hub for veteran reintegration efforts, offering employment-training opportunities and fostering connections within the local community and beyond.

Central to the CMVR initiative is the REBOOT Workshop™, a groundbreaking program that serves as the nation’s sole reverse-boot camp. This workshop combines cognitive behavioral education with practical career transitioning strategies, effectively addressing the psychological aspects of transitioning from military to civilian life. Participants also benefit from technical skills training and ongoing support, promoting social cohesion and community engagement.

We invite you to join us in supporting our veterans as they navigate the journey of reintegration. Together, we can make a profound impact in the lives of those who have served our country with honor and distinction. Stay tuned for updates as we embark on this transformative journey together!

REBOOT

Based on Defense Department data, as of 2016, there were over 1.3 million active duty military personnel and more than 800,000 reserve forces. The breakdown across the five armed services included 471,397 for the Army, 326,276 for the Navy, 309,682 for the Air Force, 183,917 for the Marine Corps, and 39,084 for the Coast Guard. California notably leads the ranks with 190,160 active duty personnel, with over 57,000 representing the reserve forces.

Given the staggering number of capable veterans within California’s workforce, there’s an urgent need to develop a streamlined process for transitioning them from the armed forces into civilian jobs. Central to this challenge is understanding the aspirations of service members post-military service.

Enter National Veterans Transition Services, Inc. (NVTSI), also known as REBOOT. Established in 2010 as a private sector non-profit organization, NVTSI offers a transformative solution: the “REBOOT” workshop, a three-week, cohort-based program designed to serve transitioning military personnel, veterans of all eras, and spouses. This innovative workshop, often dubbed a “reverse-boot camp,” focuses on building emotional, psychological, social, and professional skills crucial for successful reintegration into civilian life. Through cognitive restructuring techniques, REBOOT empowers veterans to redefine their identity, discover new purposes, and chart their career paths beyond the military.

Key Features:

• Development of cognitive technology tools to facilitate early career discovery activities, seamlessly integrating them into Federal and State transition systems.
• Collaboration with like-minded organizations to address the challenges and barriers veterans encounter as they transition into civilian life, including access to workforce services and job training.
• Creation of a collaborative model that can be replicated statewide, adaptable to regional needs, and scalable for widespread impact.

With this strategic collaboration between REBOOT and Vernon Taylor Enterprise Alliance (VTEA), we’re poised to revolutionize the transition process for California’s veterans, ensuring they find fulfilling civilian careers after their dedicated service to our nation.