Transition Assistance Program

The Transition Assistance Program (TAP) at FFSC NAWS China Lake helps service members and their families prepare for a successful transition from military to civilian life. TAP provides counseling, education, and resources to support career planning, education goals, financial readiness, and post-service benefits.

Core Components of TAP

Individualized Initial Counseling (IC)
Must be completed no later than 365 days prior to separation or retirement. During IC, service members complete a self-assessment and begin their Individual Transition Plan (ITP) to identify personal goals and post-transition needs.

Pre-Separation Counseling
Also required no later than 365 days prior to separation or retirement. This briefing covers benefits, entitlements, and resources available to transitioning service members. Spouses and caregivers are encouraged to attend.

DoD Transition Day
The mandatory one-day curriculum includes:

• Managing Your Transition
• Military Occupational Code (MOC) Crosswalk
• Financial Planning for Transition

VA Benefits and Services Brief
Provides an overview of VA benefits, how to apply, and how to maximize earned entitlements after service.

DOL One-Day Employment Overview
Covers employment best practices, job search strategies, and how to prepare for the civilian workforce.

Two-Day Elective Tracks
Service members must select one of the following tracks:

• DoD Education Track
• DOL Employment Track
• DOL Vocational Track
• SBA Entrepreneurship Track

Capstone
Must be completed no later than 90 days prior to separation or retirement. Commanders verify that service members meet Career Readiness Standards and have a viable ITP.

TAP Interagency Partnership

For scheduling, questions, or support, contact the FFSC Transition team.