Choosing Military- or Employer-Provided Insurance

I was in the Army for just over 21 years, stationed down in Biloxi, MS at Keesler AFB. I got my retirement orders in February of 2005, with a retirement date of Dec. 31 2005. With taking leave and PTDY, I was gone the end of September.

As soon as I got my orders, I started pushing hard on my job searches and sending out my resume. I am a Frequency Manager and that was what I was shooting for. I found there were no GS openings so I started hitting the defense contractors sites e.g. Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrup Grumman, and so forth.

Boeing had a position and I applied for it. They called me to set up a phone interview in June and I found out I got hired. The first thing they asked was how soon could I start and I said the end of September. Then Hurricane Katrina hit and threw a few wrenches in my works but everything worked out.

I think the hardest part of transition was understanding the benefits that the companies offer. After 21 years of never having to worry about medical insurance, I was forced to make a choice between three different version of their plans. Yeah, we had the option of Tricare Prime, but honestly Boeing had a better plan. Then there are the investment/401K plans, the vacation and sickdays. I went from earning 2.5 days a month to earning 1.5-plus hours a week.

I would suggest that before you get out to bone up on civilian medical plans in general, learning about co-pays and what is and isn’t covered. One more thing. When it comes to salary, whoever mentions money first loses. Always make a counter to their offer. They will let you know if they can or can't. Do research as best you can about what the median pay for you skill will be in your new location. I went from living in Biloxi, MS to living in Seattle, WA -- a big change. Don’t just counter with a single amount, come back with a range. If you would settle for 66K, then counter with 65-67K. Give them an option to choose and don’t sell yourself short.

(Submitted by Brian Gilman)