Information session details education options for CAF members

An information session was held at Garrison Petawawa on June 12 for Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members, both regular and reserve, to answer questions about the wide range of educational opportunities available to them.

The session brought together representatives from the Renfrew County District School Board (RCDSB), Algonquin College, Willis College, the Garrison Petawawa Personnel Selection Office and Veterans Affairs Canada who covered topics including how to address the gaps some members face when switching trades, as well as what’s available to personnel who are transitioning out of the CAF. “When we talk about CAF members transitioning to the civilian world, not all of them are being released medically,” said Lieutenant Robert Hall, Personnel Selection Officer. “For some of them, their contract has expired and they are ready to move into something different.”

Members who have honourably released after six years can be eligible for $40,000 through Veterans Affairs while those who have left after 12 years can receive up to $80,000 for education. For certifications or short-term courses, they can also receive up to $5,000.

“I think it is important for members to understand all of the benefits that are available to them when they do make that jump into the civilian world,” said Lt Hall, “so they can best plan that transition.”

The VA’s Career Transition Services is available to veterans released on or after April 1, 2006; those who are still serving; a veteran or survivor who is entitled to the Canadian Forces Income Support Benefit; a survivor of a member who died or was released on or after April 1, 2006; or a spouse or common-law partner of a veteran who was released on or after April 1, 2006.

Different options are available to different people, but these services offer access to a career counselor who can provide them with information on the civilian labour market, career counseling, resume writing workshops, interview preparation, and job search training.

The goal of the program is to help former members find gainful employment and focuses on individual needs.

For those who are eligible for the VA’s Education and Training Benefit, it can be a financial lifesaver by offering up to $80,000 in educational funds. It came into effect on April 1, and helps former military members get a leg up by covering post-secondary fees. They can apply for this program for up to a decade after release.

There are caveats such as the fact that they must be released before a decision on whether they get reimbursed is made, and members must create an official plan, but it is ideal for those wanting to start a second career. The money can also be used for books, equipment, and housing as well as tuition.

Any schooling started before the application has been approved will be at the cost of the veteran, so it is imperative that they file the paperwork on time.

The VA also offers different programs for those who are injured.

Serving members of the CAF also have access to the Education Reimbursement Program (ERP). Regular Force personnel can see 100 per cent of their education reimbursed as long as it leads to the completion of their degree or diploma, they are currently parading with their unit, and it is seen as an added value to the Forces.

Reservists, however, receive 50 per cent of their expenses and that maxes out at $2,000 for an academic year for a total of $8,000.

The local colleges and the RCDSB provide courses and credits, offered both online and in the classroom, to help bridge any gaps a soldier may have in transitioning to another position.

Both of the colleges in attendance offer special bursaries and support programs to current and former military members and their dependents. They also help students work with the unique strengths they’ve gained through their career in order to succeed.

“We love military people because (they) bring discipline, one of the keys to education, so we know you’ll be great students,” said Jamie Bramburger, Algonquin College Manager of Student and Community Affairs at the Pembroke Campus.

Further details about available educational programs and eligibility are available through the Personnel Selection Office at 613-687-5511 ext: 4626.