There's no doubt about it, these are challenging times for job-seekers.  There are more applicants out there than ever before, it seems.  What can you do to stand out from the crowd?

Fortunately, your local military base stands ready to help you through the job search process.  Both Fort Meade and Annapolis have programs and resources available to anyone, adult or teen, who holds an active duty, dependent or retiree military ID card.  Some of Fort Meade's programs are also open to Department of the Army civilian employees.

This month Fort Meade is hosting a tech job fair.  It will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Club Meade on post.  In addition to offering you the chance to meet and talk with dozens of employers, you can also take advantage of two free seminars on writing your federal resume.  They will be held at 10:15 and 11:15 a.m.  The seminars are free, but seating is limited.

Fort Meade's Army Community Service office has a wealth of resources for job-seekers.  The Employment Readiness Program offers a computer lab, job databases, a fax machine and copier for your use and classes on everything from writing your resume to dressing for your job interview.  Call 301-677-5590 for more information.

The Annapolis Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) also offers classes and self-help services for military members, spouses and retirees.  Upcoming classes include "Ten Steps to a Federal Job" on February 17, from 8:30 - 11:30 a.m., and "Resume Writing" on February 26 from 8:30 - 11:30 a.m.  Call 410-293-2641 to learn how FFSC can help you find your next job.

If you're separating or retiring from active duty Navy or Marine Corps service, consider taking the excellent classes that Annapolis FFSC offers as part of the Transition Assistance Program (TAP).  Ideally, you should start this process a year before you separate or retire, but it's never too late to take advantage of the information and assistance that the TAP program offers.  Find out more by calling 410-293-2641.

Whether you're looking for your very first summer job or transitioning from decades of active duty service into civilian life, your local military base has programs, classes and resources available to help you showcase your talents and land your dream job.