Madeline Jensen can start a new career because of a program from AFAS
When Madeline Jensen married her husband, Captain Kyle Jensen, she was in the middle of studying for an undergraduate degree. When they moved soon after, she learned that many of her college credits wouldn’t transfer to another school.
After learning about the Air Force Aid Society’s (AFAS) Spouse Employment Program (SEP), Madeline decided it sounded interesting, so “why not give it a shot?” she recalls.
The AFAS SEP provides free, no-cost entry-level job training to active duty military spouses with a goal to help them secure immediate, viable employment and possibly long-term careers.
Upon learning that she qualified for the program, Madeline was very excited to pursue a certificate to be a pharmacy technician, which was something of interest to her already. “I don’t usually count myself as a lucky person, so I was pretty excited…and I am looking forward to the opportunity to further my education and get myself in the workforce,” she says.
Madeline is now attending Dover Technical College, and unlike her lost college credits, the certificate she receives in Delaware will transfer to other states.
“This is something I can take with me, no matter where we move,” Madeline states happily. And, as a pharmacy technician, Madeline will have flexibility in her employment, working either part-time or full, as well as on-base or off.
“It’s hard to have to start over everywhere you go,” Madeline explains. And with this certificate, she knows that she won’t have to start a new career with each move, and that provides Madeline great comfort. “I am excited and I look forward to my future,” she says.
Madeline sees the SEP and the generous donors to AFAS as “a huge blessing for myself and my family.” She says it’s another way that AFAS shows that they really care and support the families of Airmen.
The Air Force Aid Society is the official charity of the U.S. Air Force and has been meeting the unique needs of Airmen and their families since 1942. AFAS works to support and enhance the USAF mission by providing emergency financial assistance, educational support, and community programs. Since 2008, AFAS has provided more than $215 million in direct support to Air Force families. Visit www.afas.org to learn more, apply for assistance or to donate.