Best Jobs for Retired Military?

I'm planning long-term and curious about the best job options for when I eventually retire from the military. What careers do retiring military personnel often find fulfilling? Are there certain industries that value military experience more?

There are several industries where military experience can be translated into civilian careers. Here are a few sectors that welcome veterans due to their specialized skills, leadership traits, and proven work ethic:

1. Federal Government Jobs: The U.S. government values military experience and has a veterans' preference system in place for hiring. This can lead to positions within the Department of Defense, Veterans Affairs, or Homeland Security.

2. Corporate Security: Veterans who had military roles in security, intelligence, or as MPs often find a good fit in corporate security. These jobs can range from fraud investigation, cyber security, personal protection, to general business security.

3. Project Management: The military trains individuals to manage risk, plan logistics, and supervise teams—all skills useful in corporate project management roles. This could be in various industries including IT, construction, or consulting.

4. Supply Chain Logistics: If your role in the military involved managing supplies, ensuring things got where they needed to be when they needed to be there, look into a career in supply chain management.

5. Emergency Management: Vets are often skilled in crisis response thanks to their military experience. Jobs in emergency management, such as working for disaster response organizations or in community resilience planning, can be a satisfying continuation of your service.

6. Defense Contracting: Companies who contract with the military often seek veterans for these roles, as they are more familiar with the lifestyle, challenges, and benefits of working with the defense sector.

7. Teaching: Some retired military personnel find fulfillment in educating young people. You could teach subjects related to your military expertise, or mentor students more generally with the leadership skills you've honed.

Finally, consider if there were aspects of your military role that you particularly enjoyed. This could guide you towards a satisfying second career. For example, if you enjoyed the mechanics of flying helicopters, you could consider a career in aviation. If your role required high-level technical skills, IT has a vast array of career opportunities that value such experience.

Remember, networking is hugely beneficial. Former military comrades who have successfully transitioned can prove valuable sources of advice.