How to Transition from Military Logistics to Civilian Jobs?

I'm considering a career in military logistics, but I'm also thinking about the long-term transition to civilian work. Are there specific pathways or skills that would make this transition smoother?

Certainly, the key to making a successful transition from military logistics to civilian jobs lies in translating your military skills and experiences into civilian terms. Here is some advice based on what has helped others make this transition smoothly.

1. Understand and leverage transferrable skills: Translating your military skills into civilian language is key. Logistics in the military focuses on the movement and supply of troops, which can easily translate to supply chain management, inventory control, or transportation management in the civilian sector.

2. Get Certified: Acquiring civilian certifications related to logistics and supply chain management would be beneficial. Certifications such as Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) can showcase your expertise and commitment to the field.

3. Networking: Networking is invaluable during any career transition. Engage with professional groups linked to supply chain, logistics, or transportation. LinkedIn can be a great platform for establishing these connections.

4. Resume Preparation: Your resume needs to paint a picture that a civilian employer can understand. Instead of relying on military jargon, describe your skills and experiences in universally-understood language.

For example, let's say you coordinated the delivery of supplies across various bases while balancing timelines and resource constraints in the military. That could be translated to experience in transportation coordination, resource management, and timeline management—all skills valued in civilian logistics roles.

5. Education: Depending on the job you're after, furthering your education might be beneficial. Degree programs in supply chain management or logistics can provide valuable knowledge and networking opportunities.

6. Job Search: Look for positions bearing titles such as Logistics Coordinator, Operations Manager, Supply Chain Specialist, Purchasing Manager, and Warehouse Manager, to name a few.

Remember, employers value the discipline, organizational skills, leadership, and hands-on experience military personnel bring to logistics roles. Position your military logistics background as an asset and demonstrate your ability to adapt to a corporate environment for a seamless transition.