Gustavo Pena Pascuz left the Army in May 2010, after six years of service and two tours in Iraq. He

turned to South Florida Workforce Investment Board (SFWIB), which provides workforce services in Miami-Dade and Monroe counties, as he embarked on his next life chapter: getting a civilian job and an education. He needed help finding a job that would be flexible enough for him to work and attend college full-time. The local board helped Pascuz update his resume and connected him with potential employers.

Armed with new networking know-how and a resume that translated his military experience and skills into sought-after civilian employee qualities, Pascuz was hired as a full-time security officer. After a year in his first security position, SFWIB helped Pascuz secure a different, higher-paying, equally flexible security position. When he is not working, Pascuz spends time studying for an associate’s degree in criminal justice. He also plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science.

“The Employ Florida network and my local One-Stop Career Center helped me make a smooth transition from military service to the civilian workforce,” said Pascuz. “As I continue my education, I will continue to turn to the Employ Florida network to help me advance my career.”

EmployFlorida.com

The tailored service civilian job seekers, including veterans like Pascuz, receive at SFWIB is a result of the high priority the local board places on customer outreach, says Executive Director Rick Beasley. Workforce professionals in the region are measured on consistent, direct outreach to help ensure job seekers are taking full advantage of the workforce services available to assist them. There also is a dedicated staff member at SFWIB to assist veterans in finding employment.

“We are constantly evaluating and working to raise the quality of our customer service to ensure job seekers connect with employers seeking candidates with their skills and experience,” said Beasley. “The strong collaboration that exists among our board and partners throughout the region helps to drive our innovative efforts and positive outcomes for job seekers and businesses alike.”

Gustavo Pena Pascuz and Eric Well, South Florida Workforce Board Veteran Representative

Gustavo Pena Pascuz: Tapping Workforce Resources for Flexible

Civilian Employment