Captain Stanley C. Jones

Key Themes & Takeaways:

1. Purpose-Driven Career Transition:

• Transitioned from Navy pilot to test pilot at Gulfstream after deciding he wanted to continue flying but not as a commercial airline pilot.
  
• Valued mission, purpose, and working with high-performing teams.
  
• Sought meaningful, team-oriented work post-military and found it in experimental aviation testing.

2. The Power of Networking:

• Job at Gulfstream came from a Naval Test Pilot School classmate’s referral—first and only job interview post-retirement.
  
• Reinforced the importance of maintaining positive relationships throughout one’s career—“don’t burn bridges.”
  
• Recommends reaching out early, even if informally.

3. Preparation for Transition:

• Began planning two years out—started a LinkedIn profile and began organizing his experience.
  
• Used old FITREPs and resumes to build a detailed LinkedIn and resume base.
  
• Worked with peers who transitioned earlier for resume feedback.

4. Compensation and Negotiation:

• Knew people at Gulfstream who helped him understand the pay structure.
  
• Negotiated relocation benefits, despite rigid HR rules, by making a business case and leveraging internal advocates.
  
• Emphasized looking beyond salary: housing costs, taxes, insurance, and relocation assistance matter.

5. Medical & VA Disability:

• Started VA disability process as early as permitted (six months before retirement).
  
• Worked with a knowledgeable VA rep to file claims accurately and comprehensively.
  
• Having his disability rating finalized on retirement day saved him $16,000 in VA loan funding fees when buying a home.
  
• Emphasized the benefit of having all medical records organized before separation.

6. Life After the Military:

• Found civilian work culture less focused on mentorship and professional development.
  
• Missed the military’s team-oriented leadership style and investment in junior personnel.
  
• Highlighted significant tax impacts post-retirement, including property and income taxes.
  
• Encouraged proactive tax planning, particularly around dual income during terminal leave and first year out.

7. Benefits Strategy:

• Strongly recommended considering the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP)—it’s irrevocable if declined at retirement.
  
• Urged discussion and decision-making with spouses.
  
• Used Tricare for health and company-provided dental/vision coverage.
  
• Advocated for life and long-term care insurance early in career, while still healthy.

Notable Advice:

• Start your transition prep two years out.
  
• Keep medical documentation up to date and under your control.
  
• Know that VA disability is likely, and even a low rating can have major financial benefits.
  
• Plan for taxes—retirement income is taxable in some states, and dual incomes (e.g., during terminal leave) can be a surprise.
  
• Don’t rely on finding a job post-retirement; secure one before you exit, if possible.

Discussion and Q&A Highlights:

• Clarification that SBP elections require spousal consent and are typically irreversible if declined.
  
• Importance of knowing your state’s military tax benefits (e.g., South Carolina no longer taxes military retirement).
  
• Strategies for handling your medical records during base transitions—get digital copies before you leave.
  
• Pitfall: Civilian organizations may not prioritize leadership development or mentorship like the military does.
  
• Strong encouragement for young service members to get life and long-term care insurance early.

Closing Message:

Captain Jones reinforced that networking, preparation, and seeking help are critical to a smooth transition. He credited much of his success to mentors, timely advice, and maintaining strong personal and professional relationships throughout his career.