I am a veteran of over 18 years, and learned computer operations while in the service. I taught myself how to use, fix, troubleshoot, train and provide technical support for computer systems. I separated from the service in 1992.

However, when I got out of the service, I could only get a job driving a truck. I hated it. I love working with computers, helping others solve their computer problems. I'm good at it but I can't seem to get an interview, let alone a job.

I am currently in Missouri and I would like to get back to my native California. But I can't do it without a job.

Am I unemployable?

First things first -- you are NOT unemployable. There's a job for everybody, especially someone like you with lots of firsthand computer experience. The trick is how you present that experience to an employer. Here are some ideas:

1) I took a look at your résumé. It's solid, but it could use some tweaking. Be sure to include a section called Achievements. Under Achievements, you should describe two or three of your biggest accomplishments in the computer field. This will show that you can do the job.

2) Watch the spelling and punctuation. Example: Fraud, Waste, and Abuse should not be capitalized in your résumé.

3) How does this résumé look on paper? If the typeface is smaller than 11 points or it's printed on purple paper, that may be what's holding you back.

4) Use the Internet to network and search for jobs in California, which is a rich source of employment in the computer field. Do you have any friends or other contacts in California? Be sure to tell them your plans.

5) Consider doing temporary work. It's a good way to break into a new field, and the personal contacts you make could lead to full-time employment.