Operation Warfighter: Service members find a home in the Forest Service
WASHINGTON, DC—The Operation Warfighter program offers hiring managers an alternative hiring option when filling permanent positions. The program is a unique federal temporary assignment internship program established by the Department of Defense for wounded, ill or injured service members. Interns represent a broad demographic, from newly enlisted to 15-year career officers, with varying skills and career experience.
Business Operations has successfully placed 10 qualified interns across Chief Information Office, Fleet Management, Office of Grants and Agreements, and Procurement and Property Services. The Forest Service implemented the program not only to fill a short-term need but to place interns in permanent positions once separated from the military when possible. Since July 2021, three interns have been placed in permanent positions in CIO and OGA.
Michael L. Vigil, supervisory workforce management specialist, CIO, sees first-hand the positive impact the program has had for interns and the agency. Vigil serves as the OWF Forest Service program coordinator and liaison to OWF DOD. Michael has worked for the Forest Service for 15 years, coming from the Army Reserves. When asked to serve as the agency contact, he enthusiastically accepted.
“I am extremely passionate about this program. When you leave the military, you leave behind a way of life, a sense of family and community. When your military career ends sooner than expected due to health-related issues, the experience can be disorienting. The Forest Service value of connecting people to the land and one another and emphasizing community to achieve our purpose resonates so deeply with our interns. This program is a bridge from one family to another.”
The Forest Service fosters community for participants, which is essential to support their individual needs and the overall success of the program. Each morning, the cohort meets to check in with each other in a supportive environment. Meetings often include a Forest Service leader or presenter to train, offer encouragement, share, and get to know the interns and their career goals once separated from the military. Interns have access to other training, networking and skill development opportunities to ensure a comprehensive yet targeted experience.
Accepting an intern does not require an established box on the organizational chart. During the internship period, the intern is paid by the branch of military to which they belong. For more information, please contact Michael L. Vigil, supervisory workforce management specialist, CIO at 480-341-6311 or michael.vigil@usda.gov.