I'm interested in UX design and wonder if there are military positions that would let me use or develop these skills. Are there jobs in the military that involve design, user experience, or similar areas?
Absolutely, UX design skills can definitely be applied to a variety of roles within the military! In fact, the military has increasingly been recognizing the importance of UX design and the impact it can have on equipment, software, and overall strategic effectiveness.
One role you might consider is working as a systems analyst. Here you'd be charged with breaking down complex systems and procedures into their component parts, analysing each part's functionality and overall impact on the user experience, and proposing improvements. You'd be utilizing your UX design skills to ensure the system is user-friendly, effective, and efficient.
Moreover, as the military continues to invest in cutting-edge technology and software, there is increasing demand for UX designers to work on designing digital interfaces in areas such as drone operation, cybersecurity, and military communication systems. You'd be ensuring that the tools are intuitive for soldiers to use, which can greatly increase their efficiency and effectiveness in performing their duties.
Finally, consider roles in the research and development sector of the military, which benefits greatly from UX design skills. In these roles, your input could influence the design of cutting-edge military hardware and technology. Your UX skills could be used to streamline the design of new equipment, improve the functionality of existing technologies, or help with the development of platforms that ensure ease of use and efficiency for military personnel.
An example would be if you joined the Army's Software Engineering Directorate or the Air Force's Digital group, where you could be part of the design process for apps and software that improve logistics, communications, and decision-making capabilities for service members.
Keep in mind that military positions often require additional training and ride along with a commitment to serve, but they do offer unique opportunities to apply, develop, and stretch your UX design skills in ways that can have significant, wide-ranging impacts.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.