Advice on jobs for people getting out of the military?

As I'm thinking about potentially joining the military after high school, I’m curious about the kind of jobs available once you leave. What career paths are there, and are transition programs helpful?

Exiting the military comes with a unique set of circumstances, so your question is critical. After serving, veterans have a wide array of career paths in both the public and private sectors due to the diverse skill sets and experiences that military service provides.

First, let's consider careers related to your military occupation. If you served in a technical role, such as an IT specialist or a mechanic, you can readily find jobs with similar job descriptions in the civilian world. You'll just need to adjust to the civilian language and norms. This applies to a wide array of military occupational specialties (MOS), including logistics, medical, engineering, and more.

Next, many veterans leverage their leadership and organizational skills into managerial roles. Throughout your service, you likely developed strong leadership skills which are transferable to any industry. This can lead to roles in operations, project management, and human resources, among others.

There is also the government and defense contracting sector which actively recruits veterans. Organizations within this sector value the understanding of military language, operations, and culture that veterans bring to the table.

Regarding transition programs, tools like the Department of Defense's SkillBridge program are quite beneficial. SkillBridge connects service members with industry partners in real-world job experiences. Similarly, the Veterans Employment and Training Service (VETS) serves America's veterans by protecting their employment rights and provides resources and expertise to assist and prepare them for meaningful careers.

Moreover, schools offer programs to help veterans transition their military skills into civilian careers. Universities with 'Yellow Ribbon Programs' could provide excellent resources for those considering education after service.

Finally, it can be helpful to speak with veterans who have gone through the transition process. They can introduce you to networking resources, provide advice, and help contextualize the transition process. Remember, planning and making full use of the resources provided can facilitate a smoother transition into civilian life.