MCPON Speaks at Military.com Spouse Summit

By By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Martin L. Carey, Office of the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy

TYSONS CORNER, Va. (NNS) -- Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Mike Stevens spoke with Navy spouses at the Military.com 2014 Spouse Summit: "Live Your Best Military Life."

Before MCPON talked with spouses, the Honorable Juan Garcia, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, opened the conversation by talking about the Optimized Fleet Response Plan, and the Career Intermission Program.

"We're determined to make sure Sailors and spouses are aware of the Career Intermission Program," Garcia said. "As you and your family consider your personal retention efforts, I ask you all to consider this program as well."

After Garcia finished, Stevens began his conversation by talking about his smart device pilot program. His goal is to have recruits issued a smart device tablet at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes. The device will have access to course materials, wireless Internet, and a variety of other resources.

"Our goal is to keep Sailors up-to-date with the latest technology and equipment," he said. "This type of device also allows us to teach Sailors proper operational security habits, and the importance of using social media sights properly and safely, in order to protect vital information," said Stevens.

After talking about a few of his upcoming initiatives, he listened to feedback and answered questions from the audience.

A spouse asked about the lack of support for spouses and families at joint commands in the Washington D.C. area.

"Many commands in this area are in a joint environment, we must ensure that we're aware of each service's support programs, in order to guarantee that our families receive the proper care and support," said Stevens.

Another spouse spoke about her concerns with military spouse employment compared to civilian employment.

"I recognize that it can be very difficult to pursue your dream careers because of the frequent moves and adjustments that military spouses have," said MCPON. "I want to encourage you all to look at employment resources that our Fleet and Family Support Centers offer military spouses."

MCPON concluded his visit by thanking the spouses for their selfless support and dedication, and encouraged them to visit the Navy Ombudsman At Large page for additional useful information.