What jobs can you pursue after retiring from the military?

For those who retire after a full military career, what kinds of job options are out there? Do retirees usually enter a new field, or do they find roles related to their military experience?

There are countless opportunities available for veterans transitioning from military service to civilian life. The possibilities are quite varied and depend largely on factors such as personal interests, skills learned during military service, education level, and the desire for further training or education.

Many military retirees tend to leverage skills they acquired during their service in similar civilian roles. For example, those who held command positions could transition to management roles in civilian companies. Combat engineers could pursue a path in construction or civil engineering. Linguists or interpreters used in peacekeeping missions could work in translation services or global organizations. Moreover, veterans with technical roles in the military, such as technicians or IT specialists, could consider similar roles in the civilian sector.

There's also a large segment of the military population that transition into public service or government jobs. Federal agencies value the leadership, integrity, and problem-solving skills that veterans bring. Jobs in fields like law enforcement or emergency services align well with military training and experience.

However, entering a new field entirely is also quite common and achievable. Many veterans choose to go back to college or vocational school to acquire new skills or complete degrees. The GI Bill can be a great resource for this.

Entrepreneurship is another route many military retirees choose. The discipline, tenacity, and strategic thinking required in military service can serve veterans well when starting their own businesses.

Remember that transitioning from a military to a civilian career can take some time and adjustment, but resources such as career counseling, job placement services, and transition assistance programs are often available to help make the process smoother.