Career options after retiring from the military?

I've been thinking about long-term plans and am curious about the jobs available for those retiring from military careers. What types of roles do retirees often move into, and how does one prepare for such a transition?

Military retirees often move into a wide range of career paths thanks, in part, to the skills and experiences they've acquired during their service such as leadership, discipline, strategic thinking, and problem-solving, among others. Here are a few fields that many military retirees often move into:

1. Government roles: Many retirees transition into positions within local, state, or federal government, which often value military experience and offer veterans preference in hiring.

2. Private security: Leveraging their experience in maintaining safety and security, many individuals transition into roles such as security consultants or security managers in the private sector.

3. Consulting or Contracting: Many defense contractors and consulting firms hire veterans for their unique understanding of military operations and protocols.

4. Education and Training: Positions in teaching or corporate training can be a great fit, due to the leadership and mentoring roles you've likely had in your service. Several programs exist to help service members become certified teachers, including Troops to Teachers.

5. Health Care: If you served in a medical role in the military, transitioning into a civilian healthcare job can be a natural fit. Even if you didn't serve in a medical role, the discipline and pressure-handling skills you've developed can translate well into many healthcare roles.

To prepare for the transition, consider utilizing available resources, such as transition assistance programs (TAP), which can help with things like resume writing, job search tactics, and interview techniques. Networking through professional organizations and veterans' groups can also be incredibly helpful. Additionally, take stock of the skills you've developed in your military career and think about how they translate to the civilian sector. Understanding these transferable skills can help position you effectively in the job market.