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.:Career Resource Office:.

Bldg. 1438
760-830-7225
760-830-5955 [Fax]
Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 4:30pm
Sat, Sun & Holidays: Closed

Our mission is to provide quality transition assistance to Marines, Sailors, spouses, retirees, civil servants and other authorized members. CRO offers a variety of resources including federal resume workshops, pre-retirement seminars, local employment workshops, free email and fax for job assistance and much more!

.:CRO Staff:.

The Following programs can be reached at 830-7225:
Transition Management Program [TAMP]
Family Member Employment Assistance Program [FMEAP]
Microsoft Certification [MOS]

Internet Computer Lab
Employment Resources
Manager

Changing careers can be a stressful venture. Although transition from military service can be traumatic, it can also open new and exciting possibilities. At CRO, counselors can recommend several tactics proven effective in dealing with transition-related stress. Additionally, they can refer you to a variety of professional service providers trained in stress management. 

.:Transition Assistance Program Management Program:.

Transition Assistance Program Management Program [TAMP] Transition assistance services prepare separating Marines and their families with the skills, tools, resources, and education necessary to make successful transition into the civilian workforce. TAMP is also intended to improve individual quality of life, enhance personal and family readiness, and return solid citizens to the civilian community. Once separating Marines are settled into their new civilian lives, it is expected that they will continue to support the USMC and further aid in its recruiting efforts. 

Click HERE for more information.
Click HERE for FY12 TAMP Classes.

.:Family Member Employment Assistance Program:.

Family Member Employment Assistance Program [FMEAP] FMEAP provides assistance to Active Duty military family members [reservists, retirees, and civilians, if space is available] to help them achieve their personal and professional goals through employment, education, or volunteerism. FMEAP also acts as a force for retention as successful spouse employment assists in retaining the career Active Duty Service member. 

Click HERE for more information.

.:Microsoft Certification:.

Exams are offered at CRO in building 1438, next to the Post Office.
For more information please call 760-830-7225.

Microsoft Office Specialist Certification 
Microsoft Office Specialist (Office Specialist) certification, the premier Microsoft desktop certification, is a globally recognized standard for demonstrating desktop skills. The Office Specialist program is helping meet the demand for qualified and knowledgeable people in the modern workplace.

What is a Microsoft Office Specialist?
A Microsoft Office Specialist is an individual who has certified his or her skills in one or more of the Microsoft Office® desktop applications of Microsoft Word®, Microsoft Excel®, Microsoft PowerPoint®, Microsoft Outlook® or Microsoft Access®. The Microsoft Office Specialist Program typically offers certification exams at the "Core" and "Expert" skill levels*. The Microsoft Office Specialist Program is the only Microsoft approved program in the world for certifying proficiency in Microsoft Office desktop applications. This certification can be a valuable asset in any job search or career advancement. The program is open to Marines and Navy personnel and Dependents 16+, plus DOD workers.

How long will it take?
Many factors determine the time it takes individuals to certify. People learn at different rates of speed and start with varying levels of experience. One advantage of the MOS training software is that it allows skipping training on subjects already mastered, and has the ability to return to previous segments for more practice on harder subjects.

The test has a combination of multiple choice questions and execution items. It should be noted that the Certification Test is at the MASTERY level, not introductory or informational level. In order to pass, each key stroke of the test is graded. For example, hunting through drop down menus to find an answer would result in a wrong answer.  

How does the program work?
1. Read and fill out letter of agreement.  
2. Start on Interactive software (Work at your own pace at your own level)
3. Take practice tests. Consult with Computer Lab personnel about the results and recommendation for certification testing.

Individual Benefits
Earning Office Specialist certification acknowledges industry standard expertise to work with Microsoft Office programs. Office Specialist-certified individuals report increased competence and productivity with Microsoft Office programs as well as increased credibility with their employers, co-workers, and clients. Office Specialist certification can set you apart in today’s competitive job market, bringing employment opportunities, greater earning potential and career advancement, in addition to increased job satisfaction.
Microsoft Office Specialist certifications for Microsoft Office 2003 and have been recommended by the American Council on Education (ACE) for one semester hour of college credit in lower division “computer applications" or “information technology." 

How much does it cost?
There is no cost associated with the MOS program for Active duty & active duty spouses, reservists’, retirees and Dod/NAF workers. The Training Materials and Certification Tests are provided for use in the Career Resource Office Computer Lab.

.:Internet Computer Lab:.

Our Internet Computer Lab is equipped with 16 computer stations complete with Microsoft Office training, typing tutors, Career Exploration assessments, Job Boards and links and much more! We also offer a wireless internet hub, so feel free to bring your own computers as well!

.:Typing:.

Typing courses
At home or at work strong typing skills are essential for making the most of every moment at the computer. Put an end to frustration and wasted time with just 15 minutes of practice a day! The leader in typing tutorial software for 10 years running Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing delivers the customized training you need in a motivating engaging format. Work at your own pace with lesson content that keeps you interested. This flexible program is an ideal choice for any would-be fluent typist including students email enthusiasts and office professionals. If you use the keyboard you'll benefit from Mavis Beacon. Don't waste one more minute hitting 'backspace!' Gain noticeable improvements in typing speed and accuracy in just two weeks and as little as 15 minutes of practice per day. With Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing, better typing is guaranteed.

Typing Tests

Certified Typing Test Information
A typing certificate verifies a person's typing speed and accuracy and is often required for applicants to legal assistant, medical assistant or government positions. In order to become certified typists, candidates must pass a typing test; this usually consists of typing an unfamiliar text within a timeframe while avoiding errors and maintaining a minimum speed. The number of errors and minimum speed allowed vary depending on the organization issuing the certificate.

Who Needs to Take a Certified Typing Test?
A lot of jobs require employees to type letters or reports, input data and process information. Employers need that work done quickly and accurately. Because of this, many businesses require applicants for those jobs to submit certified typing test results - a typing certificate - to verify the job seekers' typing speed and accuracy. Even when the business does not require a certificate, applicants who submit one show their professionalism; this may help them stand out from other candidates.

What Must the Certificate Include?
Employers have their own lists of typing certificate requirements. The name of the issuing agency is required, and some employers may want the agency's official emblem. The agency's address and phone number should be included, as well as the applicant's name. The date of the typing test should be stated, and most businesses require that the date not be more than a year prior to the job application. Some employers require the signature of the individual certifying the test results.
Most employers require at least a 5-minute timed test, although some may require only three minutes and a few as much as ten minutes. The total number of words per minute and the number of errors made should also appear on the certificate. Some agencies will not grant a certificate if there are more than five errors on the test, and some require or recommend a score of at least 25 net words per minute.
Certifying agencies generally give 3-, 5- or 10-minute tests; some will give all three. If the applicant doesn't know what an employer requires, or if he or she wants to have one certificate that will suffice for several potential employers, having all three timed tests on the certificate gives a margin of safety.

How much does it cost?
There is no cost associated with the program for Active duty & active duty Spouses, reservists’, retirees and DoD/NAF workers.

.:Job Exploration Library:.

Over two hundred books and videos available for checkout to assist with employment preparation

Resource Directory for Wounded, Ill and Injured Service Members, Veterans, Their Families and Those Who Support Them