Dublin VAMC hosts successful career fair

Several hundred potential employment candidates lined up at the main entrance and wrapped around the building almost an hour prior to Carl Vinson VA’s four hour career fair June 11. COVID-19 is currently spiking in Middle Georgia and inflation is skyrocketing. The need for quality career opportunities could not have come at a better time.

The value of joining the Dublin VA team cannot be measured in compensation or benefits, but knowing intrinsically you’re making a difference in the lives of America’s Veterans every day.

Navy Veteran Larry Price served in temporary roles at Dublin VAMC, first as a COVID-19 screener and then as a transportation specialist shuttling Veterans and staff around the campus in a golf cart. He interviewed for a housekeeper position and an employment offer was made. Price was immediately accepted.

Elizabeth Wilkins, chief of Nutrition & Food Service, interviews a potential candidate.

“I’m honored to be part of this dynamic team as a full-time employee,” Price said. “My temporary position ended and my family was nervous about the inevitable unemployment. Being offered a full-time position as a housekeeper for the Dublin VA team I’ve wanted to join for years is a huge relief. It’s a dream come true.”

Hospital director: “Hard work, willingness to learn, opens doors.”

One of the biggest advantages working at Dublin VAMC are the number of opportunities available to current employees.

Dublin VA Medical Center Director Manuel M. Davila understands Price’s circumstance and excitement. After honorably discharging from the Army, Davila secured employment with VA as a biomedical specialist. He accepted the position approximately a month after taking off the uniform.

“I was fortunate to continue my career in the biomedical field with VA after transitioning from the military,” Davila said. “Hard work and a willingness to learn new skills opened the doors to opportunities, such as logistics service chief, associate director, and my current assignment as executive director of this amazing team.”

Several hundred people showed up with resumes and other credentials in hand. They were optimistic at the potential to serve America’s Veterans and joining a cohesive team. The job fair accepted the last candidate at 2 p.m. Dublin VA staff stayed until 6 p.m. to ensure every candidate who applied for a position received an interview.

Job offers made to 110 candidates

“I’m excited to see the volume of people who showed up to compete for careers and join our team in caring for Veterans like myself,” Davila said. “The outpouring of interest illustrates the overwhelming support we have in the community and their desire to serve in a role that’s bigger than themselves.”

COVID-19 is on the rise and there is continued uncertainty in the global markets. The drive and desire shown by candidates to serve those who served was perfect timing. At the end of the day, more than 110 employment offers made to potentially new team members. It’s fair to say many families celebrated Saturday evening.

If you or someone you know is interested in joining VA in caring for Veterans, please see the hundreds of career opportunities nationwide at www.USAJobs.gov.