Army Soldier Gains Valuable Skills at FFC8 Through ‘Hiring Our Heroes’ Program
Fountain-Fort Carson School District 8 (FFC8) is proud to support the Hiring Our Heroes Fellowship and Career Skills Program Internships offered through the Department of Defense and various military installations. These organizations connect transitioning soldiers with civilian career opportunities through internships and hands-on training.
While still in the military, but transitioning to civilian life, soldiers gain the opportunity to learn new skills and trades. They also showcase the specific skills they learned from the military. The program also helps the hosting company by allowing them to train the soldier for 12 weeks, see their strengths and weaknesses, and determine if they want to offer the soldier a permanent position.
Antonio Hamilton, a soon-to-be 21-year Army veteran from Aurora, North Carolina, is currently participating in a 12-week fellowship. With more than 3,000 companies sponsoring the fellowship, he researched his options and ultimately chose to intern with FFC8.
"I am interested in Human Resources, Facilities, and anything Logistical,” said Hamilton about choosing this specific opportunity.
Throughout his military career, Antonio held various positions from Team Leader to First Sergeant and was deployed to combat three times. His Military Occupational Specialty was a Petroleum Supply Specialist, but once promoted to Sergeant First Class (E7), he became a Senior Logistician. He spent the last seven years in command or serving as the Operations Sergeant.
Hamilton is currently working with the FFC8 HR department, focusing on recruitment for vacant positions across the district. He will also spend time with the Facilities/Maintenance and Transportation departments.
This fellowship is providing him with valuable insights into the civilian sector, which he says operates differently from the military.
“This fellowship is helping me transition from the Military smoothly. It is helping me change my language and just learn how the civilian sector operates.”
Hamilton’s extensive military experience has been a strong asset during this transition.
“The instructional skills that I attained while in the military have helped me out a lot so far. Also my communication and people skills have been beneficial.”
His experience in command—handling evaluations, mentorship, pay issues, family matters, and time management—has also played a crucial role in his current success.
As Hamilton progresses through his fellowship, he looks forward to the remaining weeks and the continued growth and learning opportunities FFC8 will provide.