By Lindsey Schmidt.
When special operators leave the military, they don’t just walk away from a career. They walk away from an identity, a brotherhood, a mission. The Special Operators Transition Foundation (SOTF) exists to help them find the next one. Founded in 2013, SOTF focuses on the top 3% of all US military forces. They include Green Berets, the 75th Ranger Regiment, Special Operations Aviation, Navy SEALs, Marine Raiders, Air Force Special Operations and more. Because they come from such diverse backgrounds with varied skill sets, SOTF understands that their goals will also be different and unique. So, they tailor the program to the individual rather than a set, defined schedule for all. They’ve found that 12 months is the sweet spot, but can extend or abbreviate that timeline based on the needs and timeline of the individual.
The process begins with the fellowship application on their website and once accepted, moves to a three-phrase process. Phase 1 includes one-on-one coaching where fellows identify their value proposition statement, undergo psychometric inventory and clarify what they hope to do in the private sector. Phase 2 focuses more on hard skills, such as resume optimization and coaching for the interview process. Phase 3 is about networking and they have over 600 hiring partners to introduce to fellows. The coach will even discuss offer letters and help prepare for salary negotiations. Once the fellow lands a role, they are guided on best practices to get started, expectation management and how to get past the first 180 days. At 90-100 days, they are welcomed as alumni.
In addition to the private coaching, SOTF offers several webinars each month that cover a variety of topics—sports psychology, balancing a P&L statement vs a military budget, VA claims process, to name a few. They also offer Transition Workshops all over the country, in areas that fellows want to live and work (Washington DC, Tampa, Raleigh, Nashville and more). These provide a venue for fellows to meet organizations in their desired area and are an excellent networking opportunity for all in attendance.
There are many organizations that help service members transition to civilian life, so what makes SOTF different? The tailored timeline and program are first and foremost. No two servicemembers are the same and SOTF understands this. They recommend beginning the process 12-18 months before retirement or ETS, but can and will adapt to the individual. They’ve held a platinum rating for nonprofit organizations for eight years and they intend only to grow to meet the demands of fellows. SOTF is very receptive to building relationships with other VSOs. If they do not believe they can help a candidate fully realize their potential, they’ll connect them with an organization that can. They are always looking for relationships with organizations looking for elite talent and mentors for coaching.
SOTF’s origin story takes place at a dinner table where Navy SEALs from the Bin Laden raid and corporate executives were discussing what’s next for the team guys. Like many SOF operators, the answer was “I don’t know” and the mission took off from there. Since their inception in 2013 they’ve helped over 750 special operators transition to their next career. Many of these are not the traditional roles SOF operators are expected to take. SOTF enjoys focusing on finding opportunities in the private sector that are a fit for each operator’s skill set and the needs of their families.
This program is free to fellows, who receive over $6,500 each in support including coaching, travel, personality testing and more. More than 85% of donations go directly to the fellows and you can support this mission through a variety of options on their website.
**********
Read more about the Special Operators Transition Foundation at the link below:
https://sotf.org/
