When Staff Sergeant (SSG) Taylor Cortez first walked into the Central Region Job Center Satellite location in Fort Leonard Wood on January 7, 2025, she brought with her a strong military resume, a clear career goal, and an eagerness to start a new chapter in civilian life. With eight years of experience in the U.S. Army as a Military Police Officer, Taylor had a passion for investigative work and a growing interest in forensic science. What she needed was a bridge to the next opportunity.
Thanks to the dedicated support of the Jobs for Veterans State Grant (JVSG) team at Fort Leonard Wood, Taylor found that bridge—and walked confidently across it.
During the initial intake appointment, staff identified that Taylor qualified for JVSG services and conducted a thorough assessment to better understand the specific career goals and potential barriers ahead. Taylor expressed strong interest in roles related to criminal investigations and forensics, and the team quickly got to work.
Over the following weeks, JVSG staff regularly sent job leads tailored to Taylor’s interests. One promising opportunity was a forensics case manager role with the State of Missouri. Meanwhile, Taylor independently pursued a Career Skills Program (CSP) placement with the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department. When Taylor landed an interview, the team quickly coordinated with the state’s CSP coordinator to ensure all necessary employer paperwork was submitted.
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Even with uncertainties and administrative hurdles along the way, Taylor remained focused and communicative. That perseverance paid off.
On March 3, 2025, Taylor received and accepted a civilian job offer as a GS-8 Detective at Fort Irwin, California—an opportunity that not only aligned with Taylor’s long-term career goals but also complemented their spouse’s upcoming PCS (Permanent Change of Station) orders. The timing couldn’t have been better.
Throughout this transition, Taylor’s career team maintained consistent follow-up, ensuring they had the resources and guidance needed every step of the way. Even after Taylor secured the new role, the team remained available, checking in to offer continued support and encouragement.
Taylor’s success story reflects the heart of workforce development—meeting Veterans where they are, supporting their goals, and walking alongside them as they build what’s next.
Congrats, Taylor!