in the U.S. Air Force
While we jump into warmer weather, VMSI is thrilled to honor Stephen Mancuso for our June VetSpot!
- Name: Stephen Mancuso
- Rank: SSgt (E-5)
- Branch: U.S. Air Force
- Years of Service: 10 years
- Awards or medals: AF Commendation Medal, AF Longevity, National Defense Ribbon, Small Arms Expert
Stephen’s desire to experience new challenges and expand his career path in a meaningful direction was the original driving force behind his joining the U.S. Air Force. The draw to service was one that came naturally to Stephen, whose father had served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.
Stephen started as a Contracting Specialist for the Air Force and eventually earned the title of Contracting Officer, which he still holds today. During his years of service, Stephen especially enjoyed attending school in Denver, CO and will never forget a particularly interesting contract involving burrowing owls and prairie dogs. But that’s a story for another time…While serving, Stephen came to appreciate and value the combination of self-discipline, self-motivation and willingness to pay the ultimate price for freedom (which he deemed the x-factor) that he saw in those serving alongside him.
As a VMSI employee, Stephen supports our VA Service Area Office (SAO) East contract in Orlando, Florida. Stephen is currently responsible for all pre-award, award and post-award contracting actions ranging from Single Award Purchase Orders to complex multi-year contracts. Additionally, Stephen prepares all contract documents for each action and sends to the Contracting Officer for signature.
When Steve is not serving Veterans at the NCO-8 Services Contracting Office, you can catch him performing around town at the hottest venues with one of several bands, a Dueling Piano Show, or even a Solo Piano Show at Disney Springs.
Stephen recommends these tips for anyone transitioning into civilian life:
- Meet with a Transition Assistance counselor who can help transcribe your military duties into actionable items on your resume which potential employers can recognize and understand. Your experience is valuable, and they know how to help you show your skills in a meaningful way.
- Meet with your Veteran’s Affairs representative before or soon after separation, especially if you suffered an injury while serving. Having these conditions documented at the time they occur or especially before separation from the service is important. Something that may seem minor at the time can worsen with age, and it’s much harder to address it down the road without proper documentation.
- Keep your Veteran ID card handy! Many restaurants, retail stores, and even online services will honor your service with a discount. You may be surprised at how many places offer this discount!
Thank you for your service, Stephen, and for sharing your experiences with the #VMSIFamily!