MAY 23, 2023 – For many veterans, transitioning from military to civilian life can be a daunting task. While the skills and experiences gained during military service are valuable, translating them into a successful civilian career can be challenging. However, with the right mindset and approach, veterans can use their military background to their advantage.
Whether you are just starting your transition or looking for ways to take your career to the next level, these insights will help you make the most of your military experience.
Military experience is valuable in civilian life
Military experience is a valuable asset in civilian life as it provides unique qualities that are sought after by employers. Veterans possess leadership skills, discipline, teamwork, and adaptability that have been honed through their military training. These skills are highly transferable to the workplace and can make veterans stand out from other job applicants.
Moreover, veterans also bring a strong work ethic to the table. The military instills in its personnel the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions and completing tasks efficiently and effectively. This makes veterans reliable employees who are focused on achieving organizational goals.
Translate your skills
When transitioning out of the military and entering the civilian workforce, it is important to translate your skills in a way that potential employers can understand. While military jargon may be familiar to you, it may not be to those outside of the armed forces. Begin by identifying your skillset and then creating a resume that highlights those skills in a language that is easily understood.
Leadership and teamwork are two essential qualities instilled in all service members. These qualities can translate well into any workplace environment where collaboration and communication are key components for success. Additionally, technical skills such as project management, logistics coordination, and data analysis can also be valuable assets in many industries.
It is also important to highlight any additional training or certifications received during your time in the military. These credentials demonstrate a commitment to continued education and professional development which can impress potential employers. By effectively translating your skills and experiences from the military into civilian terms, you can position yourself as a highly qualified candidate for any job opportunity.
Education
Military service can provide a wealth of experience and skills that can be applied to further education. Veterans often have strong leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities that are highly valued in academic settings. Many universities offer programs specifically designed for veterans, such as dedicated advisors and resources to help with the transition from military to civilian life.
Additionally, many universities offer online degrees that are valuable for veterans like Material Science and Engineering (MSE) . The pros of an MSE degree are endless as material science impacts everyone on this planet. It’s important for veterans to research available options and take advantage of their military background in pursuing higher education.
Finally, networking is key in any career path, and this holds true for education as well. Veterans should connect with others who have taken similar paths and seek out mentorship opportunities within their desired field of study. With determination and perseverance, transitioning from military service to a successful academic career is achievable for those willing to put in the effort.
Obtain certifications to complement military skills
One of the best ways to maximize your military training and experience is by obtaining certifications that complement your military skills. This will provide you with the necessary knowledge and expertise to excel in a civilian career. Many industries, such as cybersecurity, logistics, project management, and healthcare require specialized certifications.
For example, if you have experience working in computer networking or information technology (IT) while serving in the military, obtaining IT certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+ or Security+ can help you transition into a job in cybersecurity. Similarly, if you were involved with logistics operations during your time in service, earning a certification from the Association for Operations Management (APICS) could help you secure a job as a supply chain manager or materials specialist.
In addition to providing valuable skill sets for civilian jobs, earning certifications also highlights your commitment to continuing education and professional development – something that many employers look for when hiring candidates. Overall, combining your military training with complementary certifications is an excellent way to enhance your resume and stand out amongst other applicants in competitive job markets.