Transitioning from military service to a civilian career is a significant step, and planning ahead can make this process smoother and more successful. For active-duty service members, preparing for a civilian career before discharge is essential to ensure a seamless transition. Whether you’re looking to enter the workforce, pursue higher education, or start your own business, there are several strategies you can implement while still in service to set yourself up for success.

In this blog, we’ll provide practical advice on how to plan for your post-military career, including tips on education, skill-building, and networking. Taking proactive steps now will help you achieve your career goals once you leave the military.

Why Start Planning Your Post-Military Career Early?

Preparing for a civilian career while still on active duty can give you a head start. Transitioning to civilian life can be challenging, especially if you’re not sure what direction to take. By starting the planning process early, you can:

• Identify your career interests and explore potential job opportunities.
• Build relevant skills and qualifications that employers are looking for.
• Network with industry professionals and create connections that can help you after discharge.
• Avoid financial and logistical stress by having a clear plan and strategy in place.

Step 1: Assess Your Skills and Interests

The first step in planning for a post-military career is understanding your own strengths, skills, and interests. Take time to reflect on your military experiences and identify the skills you have developed. These might include:

• Leadership and team management
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Technical skills (mechanics, IT, logistics, etc.)
• Project management
• Communication and interpersonal skills

Conduct a Self-Assessment

You can use self-assessment tools to help identify your strengths and areas where you may need improvement. Consider using tools like the O*NET Interest Profiler or My Next Move for Veterans to explore career options based on your skills and interests. These resources can provide insight into what type of civilian jobs might be a good fit for you.

Seek Feedback

Ask your peers, supervisors, and mentors for feedback on your strengths and areas for improvement. They can help you identify skills you may not have considered and provide guidance on how to develop them further.

Step 2: Explore Education and Certification Opportunities

Many service members choose to pursue further education or certification to prepare for a civilian career. Fortunately, there are several options available to active-duty personnel that can help build new skills or formalize existing ones.

1. Use Tuition Assistance Programs

The Tuition Assistance (TA) program offers active-duty service members financial support for education. It covers up to 100% of tuition costs for courses at accredited institutions, up to specific limits. Use this benefit to take college courses, earn a degree, or gain certifications in your field of interest.

Visit your Education Service Office (ESO) to learn more about how to apply for TA and find programs that align with your career goals.

2. Pursue Certifications Relevant to Your Career Goals

Certifications can make your resume stand out to employers and validate your skills. If you’re considering a career in IT, for example, earning certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) can be a great way to demonstrate your expertise. Similarly, project management certifications like PMP can help if you’re interested in leadership roles.

The Credentialing Opportunities Online (COOL) program offers information about certifications that match military occupational specialties. Check if there are certifications relevant to your role that the military might help you pursue.

3. Prepare for College with the GI Bill

If you plan to pursue higher education after your service, consider how the Post-9/11 GI Bill can cover the cost of tuition, housing, and books. Make sure you understand your GI Bill benefits and begin planning where you might want to study and what degree you want to pursue. Some institutions offer Yellow Ribbon Programs that can help cover the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition.

Step 3: Build Your Professional Network

Networking is crucial when preparing for a civilian career. Building connections with industry professionals, veterans, and mentors can open doors to job opportunities, provide career advice, and offer support during your transition.

1. Attend Networking Events and Job Fairs

Job fairs, particularly those tailored for veterans, are excellent places to meet potential employers and learn about available positions. Organizations like Hire Heroes USA and RecruitMilitary host events specifically for service members and veterans. Attending these events while still in service can give you a sense of what employers are looking for and allow you to build connections with recruiters.

2. Join Professional Organizations

Consider joining professional organizations or associations related to your field of interest. For example, if you’re interested in cybersecurity, joining groups like (ISC)² or ISACA can help you stay updated on industry trends, gain access to training opportunities, and connect with professionals in the field.

3. Leverage Social Media and LinkedIn

Building a professional presence on LinkedIn is essential. Use the platform to connect with other veterans, join groups focused on veteran careers, and engage with content related to your field of interest. Make sure your LinkedIn profile highlights your skills, experience, and goals. Employers often look for candidates on LinkedIn, so having a polished profile can make a positive impression.

4. Seek Out Mentorship

Having a mentor can be incredibly valuable during your transition. Mentors can offer advice, provide insights into specific industries, and introduce you to important contacts. Organizations like American Corporate Partners (ACP) offer free mentorship programs for veterans, pairing them with experienced professionals across various industries.

Step 4: Prepare Your Resume and Job Application Materials

A well-crafted resume is critical to securing a civilian job. Make sure your resume translates your military skills into terms that civilian employers can understand.

1. Translate Military Experience to Civilian Language

Avoid using military jargon that may not be understood by civilian employers. Instead, focus on the skills and achievements that are transferable, such as leadership, project management, and technical expertise. Use clear, straightforward language to describe your experience.

2. Highlight Relevant Skills and Accomplishments

Focus on the skills and accomplishments that align with the jobs you’re applying for. If you managed teams, completed projects on tight deadlines, or were responsible for complex systems, make sure these experiences are highlighted.

3. Consider Getting Help from Transition Assistance Programs

Many organizations offer resume-building workshops and career counseling specifically for service members transitioning to civilian careers. Take advantage of programs like the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and services provided by organizations like The American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

Step 5: Start the Job Search Before Discharge

Don’t wait until you’ve left the military to start looking for jobs. Begin researching companies, applying for positions, and attending interviews before your discharge date. This will give you a head start and help you avoid financial stress.

1. Use Veteran-Specific Job Boards

Many job boards focus specifically on helping veterans find employment. Sites like HireVeterans.com, Military.com, and RallyPoint can help you find employers who are actively looking to hire veterans.

2. Research Employers with Strong Veteran Hiring Programs

Some companies have established programs to support veteran hiring, making the transition easier. Research organizations that are known for their veteran-friendly hiring practices, such as Amazon, Boeing, and JPMorgan Chase, and consider applying to these companies. You can find lists of veteran-friendly employers on websites like Military Friendly®.

3. Prepare for Interviews

Practice interviewing before your discharge, focusing on how to explain your military experience in a way that demonstrates your value to civilian employers. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide structured and impactful answers during interviews.

Conclusion

Planning for your post-military career while still in service is essential to ensuring a smooth transition into civilian life. By taking steps to assess your skills, pursue education and certifications, build a network, prepare your resume, and start the job search early, you can set yourself up for success. Use the resources available to you, such as GI Bill benefits, military transition programs, and veteran-friendly job boards, to make the most of your time in service and prepare for your next chapter.

If you’re still on active duty, now is the time to start planning your future. By taking proactive steps and leveraging the support available, you can build a fulfilling and successful career after your military service.