Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline

Martha Lyn Russ

Hampton,VA

Summary

Experienced Manager and Retired Military Veteran with a VA Public Trust Clearance offering multiple years of proven ability in developing, executing, and overseeing various continuous process improvement projects. Possesses an extensive knowledge of Department of Veterans Affairs Benefits Claims Processing and Veterans Benefits Administration business processes. As a Veteran Service Officer, I have 9 years of experience in helping to improve the productivity and efficiency of VBA's operations so that the right Veteran receives the right benefit at the right time. Computer-savvy technician with upbeat nature and analytical problem-solving skills. Experienced in managing data entry and documentation requirements with excellent organizational skills.

Overview

19
19
years of professional experience

Work History

National Service Officer, Assistant Regional Director, Tech Support Specialist

American Veterans
03.2014 - 07.2023
  • Assist transitioning Service Members and Veterans with filing Disability Compensation Claims to Department of Veterans Affairs using both Centralized Mail portal and more recently Vet Pro which is software program adopted by AMVETS to prepare and submit compensation claims electronically.
  • Review and analyze completed rating decisions to ensure accuracy prior to Veterans being notified of their rating decision.
  • Verify that information in Veteran's rating decision that references Title 38cfr is accurately applied and properly utilized according to Federal law.
  • Utilize Title 38cfr to prepare accurate appeals when necessary.
  • Act as Veterans liaison to resolve disputes concerning VA Rating Decisions.
  • Utilize all Department of Veterans Affairs software applications to track status and evaluate rating decisions.
  • Counsel Veterans concerning eligibility requirements for Disability Compensation claims and associated special claims.
  • Review and evaluate medical records for compensable illnesses and injuries ensuing all information is up to date and accurate prior to filing Veteran Claims.
  • Track claims and awards utilizing VBMS, Share, SEP, Capri and all other VA systems.
  • Assist Veterans with understanding their rating decision and associated additional benefits they may be eligible for.
  • Assist widows with filing Dependents Indemnity Compensation claims.
  • As Tech Support Specialist – Prepare and activate new user accounts in Vet ro database program that AMVETS uses to prepare compensation claims.
  • Prepare reports in Microsoft Office application that track and analyze performance of individual National Service Officers and their offices to give leadership information they need to ensure all offices are operating at peak efficiency.
  • Analyze and track data to related to claim processing time and accuracy at all steps of claim submission and rating process to ensure that all AMVETS represented Veteran Claims are processing in timely manner with maximum efficiency and accurate results.
  • Repair and replace computer equipment based on approved life cycle management plan or individual needs of users if equipment fails.
  • Provide training and information to all users on Data Base utilization and proper data entry.
  • Reviewed and requested medical records, military personnel records and service verification records to determine eligibility status.
  • Prepared written appeals for claimants not satisfied with rating board decisions and presented arguments before hearing officers and federal government boards.
  • Developed partnerships with community organizations to expand services and referrals.

Veterans Benefits Briefer/Adviser

Addx Corporation
11.2012 - 03.2014
  • Conducted VA Benefits briefings for over 50 transitioning service members weekly.
  • Provided one on one assistance sessions to service members and veterans to further explain compensation and benefits,
  • Assisted with application procedures and eligibility requirements.
  • Supported ongoing implementation sustainment and enhancement of Transition Assistance Programs, ensuring servicemembers and their families had necessary tools and information to seamlessly transition to civilian life.

Executive Assistant

PowerMove Recruiting Solutions, Corp
02.2012 - 04.2012
  • Reviewed resumes to fill positions for clients, reviewed client needs based on job descriptions and searched job seeker databases for potential candidates, contacted potential candidates and conducted interviews for client positions
  • Drafted job descriptions and contracts for PowerMove associates, created organizational chart of all current employees, maintained schedule and screened phone calls for the company president, created and maintained appointment calendar, filed all paperwork and maintained company database of potential and current clients.

Career Counselor

U.S. Navy, USS Leyte Gulf
01.2009 - 12.2010
  • Provided Career Counseling Services to Navy Sailors including Retention Programs, Benefits Counseling, Career Path Advice, and Advancement Opportunities
  • Briefed Command on Personnel Manning information including skill shortages, manning forecasts, and other retention related concerns
  • Facilitated training for command indoctrination, retention team, and all Career Related program changes.

OPNAV Tech Support Lead

OPNAV N3
01.2006 - 10.2008
  • Primary point of contact for all technical support problems relating to computer equipment within N3 and N5 Directorates
  • Scheduled and conducted Video Teleconferences for meetings and on call for VIP meetings to include all equipment set up and connectivity arrangements.
  • Served on the Command Training team ensuring all OPNAV Sailors had the opportunity to attend advancement training.
  • Served as Department Career Counselor.

Electronic Data Processing, Center Supervisor

USS John F Kennedy
07.2004 - 10.2005
  • Managed preventive and corrective maintenance of tactical LAN systems
  • Supervised 12 personnel in all aspects of technical support including server maintenance, training, equipment installation and replacement, planning of preventive and corrective maintenance and casualty response.
  • Served as Division Career Counselor.

Education

BBA - General Management, HR Emphasis

Bryant & Stratton College, Hampton, VA
06.2014

Associate of Applied Science - Human Resources

Bryant & Stratton College, , Hampton, VA
06.2012

Skills

  • Business Growth Initiatives
  • Recycling and Conservation
  • Logistics Strategies
  • Travel Arrangements
  • Performance Monitoring and Evaluation
  • Payroll Administration and Timekeeping
  • Desktops, Laptops and Mobile Devices
  • Business Operations
  • Database Maintenance
  • PowerPoint Presentations
  • Annual Reports
  • Business Leadership
  • Manage Operations
  • Records Organization and Management
  • Process Development and Streamlining
  • Office Support

Timeline

National Service Officer, Assistant Regional Director, Tech Support Specialist - American Veterans
03.2014 - 07.2023
Veterans Benefits Briefer/Adviser - Addx Corporation
11.2012 - 03.2014
Executive Assistant - PowerMove Recruiting Solutions, Corp
02.2012 - 04.2012
Career Counselor - U.S. Navy, USS Leyte Gulf
01.2009 - 12.2010
OPNAV Tech Support Lead - OPNAV N3
01.2006 - 10.2008
Electronic Data Processing, Center Supervisor - USS John F Kennedy
07.2004 - 10.2005
Bryant & Stratton College - BBA, General Management, HR Emphasis
Bryant & Stratton College, - Associate of Applied Science, Human Resources
Martha Lyn Russ