1. AGENDA FOR TUESDAY, 8/2/11:
0700-0800: INTRODUCTIONS & OPEN FORUM DISCUSSION
The floor is open this week for expanded discussions on networking needs and topics of interest.
Maybe you've noticed that our roundtable introductions often take 30 minutes or more as it is, because there's always such good networking and general discusion. In fact, last week the introductions went for nearly 45 minutes, which cut a bit into the time alotted for our speaker. Many thanks to Bruce Boevers (USMA '73) for his great talk on his experiences as a contract advisor to the Afghan Ministry of Defense, though we left him less time than planned. We'll try to manage that better in the future.
No such constraints this week though -- it's Open Forum, so feel free to talk about your networking needs or simply what's new for you lately.
2. UPCOMING TUESDAY PROGRAMS:
8/9/11: TBD/Open Forum. This date is currently open. If you have a speaker in mind or would like to lead a discussion, just let me know, at panicciaj@aol.com.
8/16/11: Julie Schrock will talk with us about her recently published book - Missing Max. It's the story of her son's death in Aghanistan in August of 2010, and her experiences since then.
===================================================
Have a good week.
Joe Paniccia (USMA '84)
BizNet Coordinator
panicciaj@aol.com
Service Academy BizNet of Denver meets weekly on Tuesdays at 0700 in the Marriott Hotel at the Denver Tech Center. From I-25, exit Belleview east, then turn north onto Syracuse Street. While the Marriott lots are paid parking (approx $2-4), you can park for FREE across the street at Garcia's Restaurant (we have their permission). Look for us in the seating area inside the Marriott's coffee shop. RSVP is not required. Dress is casual. Attendance is open to graduates of the federal service academies (USAFA, USCGA, USMA, USMMA, USNA). Our schedule, roster and other information are posted on the web site at www.academybiznet.org
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Weekly News & Agenda for Tuesday, 7/26/11
1. AGENDA FOR TUESDAY, 7/26/11:
0700-0730: INTRODUCTIONS
During our roundtable introductions, you're welcome to share as much or as little as you'd like about what's new in your world. We'll place particular focus on those seeking advice, referrals, job search assistance, or simply the opportunity to disseminate business information or plug your business.
0730-0800: SPEAKER/PROGRAM
BizNet member Bruce Boevers (USMA '73) will share his experiences in Afghanistan as a civilian advisor to the Afghan Ministry of Defense (MOD). In that role, Bruce developed the structure of the MOD organization, developed and taught the "capstone" course for the newly appointed officials, and mentored the Assistant Minister of Defense for Defense Policy (Programming).
2. UPCOMING TUESDAY PROGRAMS:
8/2/11: TBD/Open Forum. This date is currently open. If you have a speaker in mind or would like to lead a discussion, just let me know, at panicciaj@aol.com.
3. JOB OPPORTUNITY - Technology Sales & Customer Support (Longmont, CO):
Thanks to BizNet member Dale Degen (USMA '95) for passing along the following job opportunities at Synkera Techologies, based in Longmont. Dale writes as follows, including an email from his contact at Synkera:
Wanted to pass on an opportunity for a rapidly growing small company heavily involved with both commercial and government contracts. Please feel free to pass on to the rest of biznet. Thanks - Dale
Hi Dale,
We have an open position that we have been having trouble finding candidates for, no doubt because it is a pretty broad position. (Welcome to the challenge of growing a small company!) I have attached a link here - http://www.synkera.com/general-info/customer-service-sales-support.html
If you know of anyone, or think this is the sort of thing that would be appropriate to share on your military network, please pass this along.
Thanks,
Debi
Debra J. Deininger
Strategic Business Manager
Synkera Technologies Inc.
720-494-8401
www.synkera.com
4. GRAD SEEKING ASSISTANCE:
Cliff Miller (USMA '82) is relatively new to the Denver area and is seeking his next job opportunity. Cliff recently reached out to the West Point Society of Denver (WPSD) for networking assistance and was referred to BizNet by Lindy Blackburn (USMA '69) and Sam Thiessen (USMA '73), who are current president and immediate past president, respectively, of WPSD. Please take a look thru Cliff's cover letter below, and contact him directly if you can offer any advice, referrals, or other job search assistance.
COVER LETTER
Cliff Miller
Home - 720-379-3500
Cell - 303-476-0385
cmiller875@aol.com
Cliff Miller is a senior operations leader with significant experience in the financial engagement of budgeting and resource planning; in developing individual and organization capacity and capability; in ensuring the operational alignment and compliance to policies and procedures; in providing project, change, and results management throughout the project management life cycle; and, in leading lean sigma transformations and driving financial improvement within a matrix organization across functions, geographies, and cultures in fortune 500 companies. As a Global Director in Global Operations with Gates, Cliff partnered with and influenced senior leaders in his responsibility for operational process excellence, quality compliance, and performance improvement leading teams in North America, Europe, Asia, and South America. His lean sigma leadership, strategic expertise, organization and communication skills, innovative solutions, passion for practical tactical execution, ability to embrace transformational change, and capability to initiate and drive multiple initiatives enabled the business to successfully launch over 200 global lean sigma projects resulting in a 200% improvement in cost.
Prior to Gates, Cliff was a Global Manager for lean, a Director level senior operational role and part of Goodyear’s Global Leaders Program. While there, Cliff was part of GT’s lean start-up and transformation leading a team to develop and implement the prototype Goodyear Enterprise System focused on generating process excellence via lean sigma. As well, he enhanced engagement and led lean sigma improvement sessions involving 206 leaders and associates for processes in Asia, North America, and Europe. In addition to his lean sigma and cultural transformation focus, Cliff led teams to improve the S&OP process contributing to revenue growth of 6%; to define the consumer product creation process resulting in a 26% improvement in service delivery; and, led the transformation of the largest product business unit resulting in 97% service; and, reducing business costs by 4%.
Prior to Goodyear, Cliff served as the Site Operations Leader at Avery Dennison, its largest facility in the U.S. Cliff also worked in a Business General Management role with profit and loss responsibility leading a market turnaround of an operation at PepsiCo. After serving 5 years in the US Army, Cliff started his private industry career with Procter and Gamble.
Cliff brings a market driven perspective to running businesses highlighting balanced results across all critical performance criteria. He has applied and proven his lean sigma skills successfully working with and leading operational teams in various industries, companies, businesses, functions, geographies, and cultures. Cliff graduated from the USMA in West Point, N.Y. with a B.S. in Engineering and an MBA from Tulane University. He is a certified Lean Master and Six Sigma Black Belt (e.g., Master Lean Sigma).
Documented testimonials validating and attesting to Cliff’s leadership and accomplishments are noted below and are available upon request:
1. Sample military performance evaluations assessing Cliff’s performance consistent with his evaluations over the course of his career (e.g., promote ahead of peers)
2. A Procter and Gamble memo designating Cliff an operational developmental candidate.
3. Several recognition letters from PepsiCo senior operational executives.
4. An Avery Dennison letter on Cliff’s selection to attend the Operations Forum for high potential talent.
5. Several Goodyear testimonials to include a letter on Cliff’s selection to attend a “Skip Level” meeting for high potential talent with the former Goodyear CEO, Bob Keegan.
Cliff is willing to relocate; his total compensation package is negotiable; and, he is flexible and open to the travel needed to drive bottom line business results.
===================================================
Have a good week.
Joe Paniccia (USMA '84)
BizNet Coordinator
panicciaj@aol.com
Service Academy BizNet of Denver meets weekly on Tuesdays at 0700 in the Marriott Hotel at the Denver Tech Center. From I-25, exit Belleview east, then turn north onto Syracuse Street. While the Marriott lots are paid parking (approx $2-4), you can park for FREE across the street at Garcia's Restaurant (we have their permission). Look for us in the seating area inside the Marriott's coffee shop. RSVP is not required. Dress is casual. Attendance is open to graduates of the federal service academies (USAFA, USCGA, USMA, USMMA, USNA). Our schedule, roster and other information are posted on the web site at www.academybiznet.org
0700-0730: INTRODUCTIONS
During our roundtable introductions, you're welcome to share as much or as little as you'd like about what's new in your world. We'll place particular focus on those seeking advice, referrals, job search assistance, or simply the opportunity to disseminate business information or plug your business.
0730-0800: SPEAKER/PROGRAM
BizNet member Bruce Boevers (USMA '73) will share his experiences in Afghanistan as a civilian advisor to the Afghan Ministry of Defense (MOD). In that role, Bruce developed the structure of the MOD organization, developed and taught the "capstone" course for the newly appointed officials, and mentored the Assistant Minister of Defense for Defense Policy (Programming).
2. UPCOMING TUESDAY PROGRAMS:
8/2/11: TBD/Open Forum. This date is currently open. If you have a speaker in mind or would like to lead a discussion, just let me know, at panicciaj@aol.com.
3. JOB OPPORTUNITY - Technology Sales & Customer Support (Longmont, CO):
Thanks to BizNet member Dale Degen (USMA '95) for passing along the following job opportunities at Synkera Techologies, based in Longmont. Dale writes as follows, including an email from his contact at Synkera:
Wanted to pass on an opportunity for a rapidly growing small company heavily involved with both commercial and government contracts. Please feel free to pass on to the rest of biznet. Thanks - Dale
Hi Dale,
We have an open position that we have been having trouble finding candidates for, no doubt because it is a pretty broad position. (Welcome to the challenge of growing a small company!) I have attached a link here - http://www.synkera.com/general-info/customer-service-sales-support.html
If you know of anyone, or think this is the sort of thing that would be appropriate to share on your military network, please pass this along.
Thanks,
Debi
Debra J. Deininger
Strategic Business Manager
Synkera Technologies Inc.
720-494-8401
www.synkera.com
4. GRAD SEEKING ASSISTANCE:
Cliff Miller (USMA '82) is relatively new to the Denver area and is seeking his next job opportunity. Cliff recently reached out to the West Point Society of Denver (WPSD) for networking assistance and was referred to BizNet by Lindy Blackburn (USMA '69) and Sam Thiessen (USMA '73), who are current president and immediate past president, respectively, of WPSD. Please take a look thru Cliff's cover letter below, and contact him directly if you can offer any advice, referrals, or other job search assistance.
COVER LETTER
Cliff Miller
Home - 720-379-3500
Cell - 303-476-0385
cmiller875@aol.com
Cliff Miller is a senior operations leader with significant experience in the financial engagement of budgeting and resource planning; in developing individual and organization capacity and capability; in ensuring the operational alignment and compliance to policies and procedures; in providing project, change, and results management throughout the project management life cycle; and, in leading lean sigma transformations and driving financial improvement within a matrix organization across functions, geographies, and cultures in fortune 500 companies. As a Global Director in Global Operations with Gates, Cliff partnered with and influenced senior leaders in his responsibility for operational process excellence, quality compliance, and performance improvement leading teams in North America, Europe, Asia, and South America. His lean sigma leadership, strategic expertise, organization and communication skills, innovative solutions, passion for practical tactical execution, ability to embrace transformational change, and capability to initiate and drive multiple initiatives enabled the business to successfully launch over 200 global lean sigma projects resulting in a 200% improvement in cost.
Prior to Gates, Cliff was a Global Manager for lean, a Director level senior operational role and part of Goodyear’s Global Leaders Program. While there, Cliff was part of GT’s lean start-up and transformation leading a team to develop and implement the prototype Goodyear Enterprise System focused on generating process excellence via lean sigma. As well, he enhanced engagement and led lean sigma improvement sessions involving 206 leaders and associates for processes in Asia, North America, and Europe. In addition to his lean sigma and cultural transformation focus, Cliff led teams to improve the S&OP process contributing to revenue growth of 6%; to define the consumer product creation process resulting in a 26% improvement in service delivery; and, led the transformation of the largest product business unit resulting in 97% service; and, reducing business costs by 4%.
Prior to Goodyear, Cliff served as the Site Operations Leader at Avery Dennison, its largest facility in the U.S. Cliff also worked in a Business General Management role with profit and loss responsibility leading a market turnaround of an operation at PepsiCo. After serving 5 years in the US Army, Cliff started his private industry career with Procter and Gamble.
Cliff brings a market driven perspective to running businesses highlighting balanced results across all critical performance criteria. He has applied and proven his lean sigma skills successfully working with and leading operational teams in various industries, companies, businesses, functions, geographies, and cultures. Cliff graduated from the USMA in West Point, N.Y. with a B.S. in Engineering and an MBA from Tulane University. He is a certified Lean Master and Six Sigma Black Belt (e.g., Master Lean Sigma).
Documented testimonials validating and attesting to Cliff’s leadership and accomplishments are noted below and are available upon request:
1. Sample military performance evaluations assessing Cliff’s performance consistent with his evaluations over the course of his career (e.g., promote ahead of peers)
2. A Procter and Gamble memo designating Cliff an operational developmental candidate.
3. Several recognition letters from PepsiCo senior operational executives.
4. An Avery Dennison letter on Cliff’s selection to attend the Operations Forum for high potential talent.
5. Several Goodyear testimonials to include a letter on Cliff’s selection to attend a “Skip Level” meeting for high potential talent with the former Goodyear CEO, Bob Keegan.
Cliff is willing to relocate; his total compensation package is negotiable; and, he is flexible and open to the travel needed to drive bottom line business results.
===================================================
Have a good week.
Joe Paniccia (USMA '84)
BizNet Coordinator
panicciaj@aol.com
Service Academy BizNet of Denver meets weekly on Tuesdays at 0700 in the Marriott Hotel at the Denver Tech Center. From I-25, exit Belleview east, then turn north onto Syracuse Street. While the Marriott lots are paid parking (approx $2-4), you can park for FREE across the street at Garcia's Restaurant (we have their permission). Look for us in the seating area inside the Marriott's coffee shop. RSVP is not required. Dress is casual. Attendance is open to graduates of the federal service academies (USAFA, USCGA, USMA, USMMA, USNA). Our schedule, roster and other information are posted on the web site at www.academybiznet.org
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Agenda for Tuesday, 7/19/11
1. AGENDA FOR TUESDAY, 7/19/11:
0700-0730: INTRODUCTIONS
During our roundtable introductions, you're welcome to share as much or as little as you'd like about what's new in your world. We'll place particular focus on those seeking advice, referrals, job search assistance, or simply the opportunity to disseminate business information or plug your business.
0730-0800: SPEAKER/PROGRAM
Open Forum. This week the floor is open for in-depth discussions on topics of interest and to provide extra focus on those with networking needs.
2. UPCOMING TUESDAY PROGRAMS:
7/26/11: TBD/Open Forum. This date is currently open. If you have a speaker in mind or would like to lead a discussion, just let me know, at panicciaj@aol.com.
===================================================
Have a good week.
Joe Paniccia (USMA '84)
BizNet Coordinator
panicciaj@aol.com
Service Academy BizNet of Denver meets weekly on Tuesdays at 0700 in the Marriott Hotel at the Denver Tech Center. From I-25, exit Belleview east, then turn north onto Syracuse Street. While the Marriott lots are paid parking (approx $2-4), you can park for FREE across the street at Garcia's Restaurant (we have their permission). Look for us in the seating area inside the Marriott's coffee shop. RSVP is not required. Dress is casual. Attendance is open to graduates of the federal service academies (USAFA, USCGA, USMA, USMMA, USNA). Our schedule, roster and other information are posted on the web site at www.academybiznet.org
0700-0730: INTRODUCTIONS
During our roundtable introductions, you're welcome to share as much or as little as you'd like about what's new in your world. We'll place particular focus on those seeking advice, referrals, job search assistance, or simply the opportunity to disseminate business information or plug your business.
0730-0800: SPEAKER/PROGRAM
Open Forum. This week the floor is open for in-depth discussions on topics of interest and to provide extra focus on those with networking needs.
2. UPCOMING TUESDAY PROGRAMS:
7/26/11: TBD/Open Forum. This date is currently open. If you have a speaker in mind or would like to lead a discussion, just let me know, at panicciaj@aol.com.
===================================================
Have a good week.
Joe Paniccia (USMA '84)
BizNet Coordinator
panicciaj@aol.com
Service Academy BizNet of Denver meets weekly on Tuesdays at 0700 in the Marriott Hotel at the Denver Tech Center. From I-25, exit Belleview east, then turn north onto Syracuse Street. While the Marriott lots are paid parking (approx $2-4), you can park for FREE across the street at Garcia's Restaurant (we have their permission). Look for us in the seating area inside the Marriott's coffee shop. RSVP is not required. Dress is casual. Attendance is open to graduates of the federal service academies (USAFA, USCGA, USMA, USMMA, USNA). Our schedule, roster and other information are posted on the web site at www.academybiznet.org
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Agenda for Tuesday, 7/12/11
1. AGENDA FOR TUESDAY, 7/12/11:
0700-0730: INTRODUCTIONS
During our roundtable introductions, you're welcome to share as much or as little as you'd like about what's new in your world. We'll place particular focus on those seeking advice, referrals, job search assistance, or simply the opportunity to disseminate business information or plug your business.
0730-0800: SPEAKER/PROGRAM
Michael Hirschman, President & CEO of RIGOR Engineering, will talk about his company and the types of positions they are trying to fill in government contracting. They are especially interested in TS/SCI-cleared individuals and IT professionals. Mr. Hirschman will also discuss the future of America's technological workforce.
Many thanks to Kurt Schlaefer (USAFA '70) for arranging this speaker for us.
Mr. Hirschman's bio:
Michael G. Hirschman
Michael.Hirschman@RIGORengineering.com
Michael Hirschman, an energetic and creative professional, has a broad background where he enjoys responsibility and demands integrity. He has performed as a public servant, a systems engineer, U.S. Army military intelligence officer and as a business owner.
As CEO of RIGOR EngineeringSM, LLC, Michael is dedicated to service and excellence. He is a passionate person that reveres tenacity and ensures success. Michael has many talents and interests in life, which his career experiences reveal.
Mr. Hirschman began with a career in law enforcement and security where he protected the staff of a multi-million dollar communications firm. He was then recruited to work for a Sheriff’s Department in Iowa where he responded to many nationally broadcast events such as the unfortunate crash of United Flight 232. Michael has also performed as an investigator with undercover assignments.
The study of physics and mathematics at the University of South Dakota and then Wheeling Jesuit College was a passion of Michael’s that ended up taking him to the National Technology Transfer Center (NTTC) where he was able to bring government research and commercial entities together putting government produced products in the consumer market.
While serving in the U.S. Army as a Military Intelligence signals analyst, Mr. Hirschman gained much respect and obtained many awards, certificates and commendations. Working in the intelligence field required a constant vigilance and understanding of the enemy’s tactics and systems for which Mr. Hirschman sought to exceed. His persistence in understanding why and how things worked lead him to a career as a systems engineer where he was able to serve with TRW, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, Lockheed and IBM. By satisfying his clients and developing systems that exceeded expectations, Michael quickly moved through the ranks exceeding most of his peers. Mr. Hirschman has had the pleasure of serving many government agencies such as: DoD, NRO, CIA, NSA, NGA, NOAA, DOC and NASA. While working on several multi-million and multi-billion dollar classified government contracts, Mr. Hirschman has been able to affect positive change in processes and systems benefiting the client. Because understanding and participating is so important for Mr. Hirschman, he is a member of many organizations such as INCOSE, Colorado Space Coalition, Chambers of Commerce, National Defense Industry Association and more. Mr. Hirschman is not only a dedicated worker but also a dedicated father and member of society. He is a patriot and has a passion for serving his country.
Michael has two children that he has been active with in Scouting, sports and school activities. Mr. Hirschman’s desire to teach has put him in positions of coaching Odyssey of the Mind, school organizations, serving as CubMaster, ScoutMaster and Board Chairman. He enjoys many activities with his family including fishing, hiking, camping, shooting, skiing, playing board games and cooking. Michael volunteers with organizations such as the American Red Cross and F.E.A.T.
2. UPCOMING TUESDAY PROGRAMS:
7/19/11: TBD/Open Forum. This date is currently open. If you have a speaker in mind or would like to lead a discussion, just let me know, at panicciaj@aol.com.
===================================================
Have a good week.
Joe Paniccia (USMA '84)
BizNet Coordinator
panicciaj@aol.com
Service Academy BizNet of Denver meets weekly on Tuesdays at 0700 in the Marriott Hotel at the Denver Tech Center. From I-25, exit Belleview east, then turn north onto Syracuse Street. While the Marriott lots are paid parking (approx $2-4), you can park for FREE across the street at Garcia's Restaurant (we have their permission). Look for us in the seating area inside the Marriott's coffee shop. RSVP is not required. Dress is casual. Attendance is open to graduates of the federal service academies (USAFA, USCGA, USMA, USMMA, USNA). Our schedule, roster and other information are posted on the web site at www.academybiznet.org
0700-0730: INTRODUCTIONS
During our roundtable introductions, you're welcome to share as much or as little as you'd like about what's new in your world. We'll place particular focus on those seeking advice, referrals, job search assistance, or simply the opportunity to disseminate business information or plug your business.
0730-0800: SPEAKER/PROGRAM
Michael Hirschman, President & CEO of RIGOR Engineering, will talk about his company and the types of positions they are trying to fill in government contracting. They are especially interested in TS/SCI-cleared individuals and IT professionals. Mr. Hirschman will also discuss the future of America's technological workforce.
Many thanks to Kurt Schlaefer (USAFA '70) for arranging this speaker for us.
Mr. Hirschman's bio:
Michael G. Hirschman
Michael.Hirschman@RIGORengineering.com
Michael Hirschman, an energetic and creative professional, has a broad background where he enjoys responsibility and demands integrity. He has performed as a public servant, a systems engineer, U.S. Army military intelligence officer and as a business owner.
As CEO of RIGOR EngineeringSM, LLC, Michael is dedicated to service and excellence. He is a passionate person that reveres tenacity and ensures success. Michael has many talents and interests in life, which his career experiences reveal.
Mr. Hirschman began with a career in law enforcement and security where he protected the staff of a multi-million dollar communications firm. He was then recruited to work for a Sheriff’s Department in Iowa where he responded to many nationally broadcast events such as the unfortunate crash of United Flight 232. Michael has also performed as an investigator with undercover assignments.
The study of physics and mathematics at the University of South Dakota and then Wheeling Jesuit College was a passion of Michael’s that ended up taking him to the National Technology Transfer Center (NTTC) where he was able to bring government research and commercial entities together putting government produced products in the consumer market.
While serving in the U.S. Army as a Military Intelligence signals analyst, Mr. Hirschman gained much respect and obtained many awards, certificates and commendations. Working in the intelligence field required a constant vigilance and understanding of the enemy’s tactics and systems for which Mr. Hirschman sought to exceed. His persistence in understanding why and how things worked lead him to a career as a systems engineer where he was able to serve with TRW, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, Lockheed and IBM. By satisfying his clients and developing systems that exceeded expectations, Michael quickly moved through the ranks exceeding most of his peers. Mr. Hirschman has had the pleasure of serving many government agencies such as: DoD, NRO, CIA, NSA, NGA, NOAA, DOC and NASA. While working on several multi-million and multi-billion dollar classified government contracts, Mr. Hirschman has been able to affect positive change in processes and systems benefiting the client. Because understanding and participating is so important for Mr. Hirschman, he is a member of many organizations such as INCOSE, Colorado Space Coalition, Chambers of Commerce, National Defense Industry Association and more. Mr. Hirschman is not only a dedicated worker but also a dedicated father and member of society. He is a patriot and has a passion for serving his country.
Michael has two children that he has been active with in Scouting, sports and school activities. Mr. Hirschman’s desire to teach has put him in positions of coaching Odyssey of the Mind, school organizations, serving as CubMaster, ScoutMaster and Board Chairman. He enjoys many activities with his family including fishing, hiking, camping, shooting, skiing, playing board games and cooking. Michael volunteers with organizations such as the American Red Cross and F.E.A.T.
2. UPCOMING TUESDAY PROGRAMS:
7/19/11: TBD/Open Forum. This date is currently open. If you have a speaker in mind or would like to lead a discussion, just let me know, at panicciaj@aol.com.
===================================================
Have a good week.
Joe Paniccia (USMA '84)
BizNet Coordinator
panicciaj@aol.com
Service Academy BizNet of Denver meets weekly on Tuesdays at 0700 in the Marriott Hotel at the Denver Tech Center. From I-25, exit Belleview east, then turn north onto Syracuse Street. While the Marriott lots are paid parking (approx $2-4), you can park for FREE across the street at Garcia's Restaurant (we have their permission). Look for us in the seating area inside the Marriott's coffee shop. RSVP is not required. Dress is casual. Attendance is open to graduates of the federal service academies (USAFA, USCGA, USMA, USMMA, USNA). Our schedule, roster and other information are posted on the web site at www.academybiznet.org
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Weekly News & Agenda for Tuesday,
1. AGENDA FOR TUESDAY, 7/5/11:
0700-0730: INTRODUCTIONS
During our roundtable introductions, you're welcome to share what's new personally or professionally, along with any networking needs. We'll give particular focus to those seeking advice, referrals, job search assistance, or simply the opportunity to disseminate business information or plug your business.
0730-0800: SPEAKER/PROGRAM
Open Forum. The open forums are often some of our most productive and engaging discussions. Our first priority is to help anyone with networking needs, but we also discuss timely topics and relevant issues. If you can spare some time on Tuesday morning, swing by, grab some coffee, and re-engage with your fellow academy grads.
2. UPCOMING TUESDAY PROGRAMS:
7/12/11: Michael Hirschman with RIGOR Engineering will talk about his company and the types of positions they are trying to fill in government contracting, particularly TS/SCI cleared individuals and IT professionals. Michael will also discuss the future of America's technical workforce.
3. FAREWELL TO ORIGINAL BIZNET MEMBER RON MEIER:
Ron Meier (USMA '66) is moving to Cumming, GA within the next week, to be close to family. This is a great loss for us, as Ron has contributed so much to the group over the past 15 years. He has scheduled many great speakers and led numerous interesting discussions himself, in addition to providing detailed assistance to fellow academy grads no matter the situation. We will miss Ron greatly, and wish him all the best.
4. BIZNET MEMBER SEEKS TO EMPLOY VETS FOR GROWING BUSINESS:
Biznet member Dale Degen (USMA '95) requests our ssistance in finding veterans whom his wife can hire for her rapidly growing business. We're referring Dale to some veteran's assistance organizations who've recently spoken at Biznet, but please also read below and let him know if you have additional advice or referrals. Dale writes as follows:
I have a request for the group, as I am looking for help in placing returning vets in to a stable job at a rapidly growing company based out of Longmont, CO.
Three years ago my wife, Melissa Degen, started Sweet Escape Pastries, LLC (www.SweetEscPastries.com), a company focused on providing to restaurants premium par-baked breads, pizza crusts, pastries and desserts that just happen to be gluten-free. Her B.S. in electrical engineering and professional training at the Culinary School of the Rockies provided a solid foundation for growing the business at 100%+ year on year growth through the worst recession this country has seen for decades. Starting with just one restaurant in Denver, she became known as the premier provider of gluten-free baked goods in Colorado. She is now at 60+ restaurants and branching into territories outside of Colorado. Currently she has four full time employees, a certified dedicated gluten-free kitchen, a refrigerated delivery truck and has recently added various volume production technologies that have helped double operational efficiencies in order to keep up with the growing demand.
One of the largest challenges of growth has been finding quality people. In the current economic environment, you would think it would be easier, but we have not had good luck in finding people that have a good work ethic and want to be a part of really positive experience. We are searching for an organization that helps place vets that need a stable and structured work environment. They pay is not huge - it is generally slightly above minimum wage, but the perks are pretty good - we provide holiday vacation and many various smaller items that make the work day something to look forward to. We feel we can provide a stable environment with decent benefits for previously enlisted personnel that are searching for a job in Northern Colorado. If anyone can guide us to an organization that helps place vets having a tough time transitioning back to civilian life, we would be very grateful. We feel this is a great opportunity for anyone that may need a little structure and wants a chance to enter a rapidly growing industry with a company that will understand some of the challenges they may be facing upon returning from many years at war. If anyone in Biznet can point us in the right direction on how to seek out these individuals, we would be very grateful. Thank you in advance for any assistance that can be provided on this.
Best regards,
Dale Degen
USMA 95
dale.degen@gmail.com
===================================================
Have a great Independence Day.
Joe Paniccia (USMA '84)
BizNet Coordinator
panicciaj@aol.com
Service Academy BizNet of Denver meets weekly on Tuesdays at 0700 in the Marriott Hotel at the Denver Tech Center. From I-25, exit Belleview east, then turn north onto Syracuse Street. While the Marriott lots are paid parking (approx $2-4), you can park for FREE across the street at Garcia's Restaurant (we have their permission). Look for us in the seating area inside the Marriott's coffee shop. RSVP is not required. Dress is casual. Attendance is open to graduates of the federal service academies (USAFA, USCGA, USMA, USMMA, USNA). Our schedule, roster and other information are posted on the web site at www.academybiznet.org
0700-0730: INTRODUCTIONS
During our roundtable introductions, you're welcome to share what's new personally or professionally, along with any networking needs. We'll give particular focus to those seeking advice, referrals, job search assistance, or simply the opportunity to disseminate business information or plug your business.
0730-0800: SPEAKER/PROGRAM
Open Forum. The open forums are often some of our most productive and engaging discussions. Our first priority is to help anyone with networking needs, but we also discuss timely topics and relevant issues. If you can spare some time on Tuesday morning, swing by, grab some coffee, and re-engage with your fellow academy grads.
2. UPCOMING TUESDAY PROGRAMS:
7/12/11: Michael Hirschman with RIGOR Engineering will talk about his company and the types of positions they are trying to fill in government contracting, particularly TS/SCI cleared individuals and IT professionals. Michael will also discuss the future of America's technical workforce.
3. FAREWELL TO ORIGINAL BIZNET MEMBER RON MEIER:
Ron Meier (USMA '66) is moving to Cumming, GA within the next week, to be close to family. This is a great loss for us, as Ron has contributed so much to the group over the past 15 years. He has scheduled many great speakers and led numerous interesting discussions himself, in addition to providing detailed assistance to fellow academy grads no matter the situation. We will miss Ron greatly, and wish him all the best.
4. BIZNET MEMBER SEEKS TO EMPLOY VETS FOR GROWING BUSINESS:
Biznet member Dale Degen (USMA '95) requests our ssistance in finding veterans whom his wife can hire for her rapidly growing business. We're referring Dale to some veteran's assistance organizations who've recently spoken at Biznet, but please also read below and let him know if you have additional advice or referrals. Dale writes as follows:
I have a request for the group, as I am looking for help in placing returning vets in to a stable job at a rapidly growing company based out of Longmont, CO.
Three years ago my wife, Melissa Degen, started Sweet Escape Pastries, LLC (www.SweetEscPastries.com), a company focused on providing to restaurants premium par-baked breads, pizza crusts, pastries and desserts that just happen to be gluten-free. Her B.S. in electrical engineering and professional training at the Culinary School of the Rockies provided a solid foundation for growing the business at 100%+ year on year growth through the worst recession this country has seen for decades. Starting with just one restaurant in Denver, she became known as the premier provider of gluten-free baked goods in Colorado. She is now at 60+ restaurants and branching into territories outside of Colorado. Currently she has four full time employees, a certified dedicated gluten-free kitchen, a refrigerated delivery truck and has recently added various volume production technologies that have helped double operational efficiencies in order to keep up with the growing demand.
One of the largest challenges of growth has been finding quality people. In the current economic environment, you would think it would be easier, but we have not had good luck in finding people that have a good work ethic and want to be a part of really positive experience. We are searching for an organization that helps place vets that need a stable and structured work environment. They pay is not huge - it is generally slightly above minimum wage, but the perks are pretty good - we provide holiday vacation and many various smaller items that make the work day something to look forward to. We feel we can provide a stable environment with decent benefits for previously enlisted personnel that are searching for a job in Northern Colorado. If anyone can guide us to an organization that helps place vets having a tough time transitioning back to civilian life, we would be very grateful. We feel this is a great opportunity for anyone that may need a little structure and wants a chance to enter a rapidly growing industry with a company that will understand some of the challenges they may be facing upon returning from many years at war. If anyone in Biznet can point us in the right direction on how to seek out these individuals, we would be very grateful. Thank you in advance for any assistance that can be provided on this.
Best regards,
Dale Degen
USMA 95
dale.degen@gmail.com
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Have a great Independence Day.
Joe Paniccia (USMA '84)
BizNet Coordinator
panicciaj@aol.com
Service Academy BizNet of Denver meets weekly on Tuesdays at 0700 in the Marriott Hotel at the Denver Tech Center. From I-25, exit Belleview east, then turn north onto Syracuse Street. While the Marriott lots are paid parking (approx $2-4), you can park for FREE across the street at Garcia's Restaurant (we have their permission). Look for us in the seating area inside the Marriott's coffee shop. RSVP is not required. Dress is casual. Attendance is open to graduates of the federal service academies (USAFA, USCGA, USMA, USMMA, USNA). Our schedule, roster and other information are posted on the web site at www.academybiznet.org
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