Best Career Choices for Veterans

 When a veteran transitions to a civilian lifestyle, it can be challenging to know what new career may be the best fit. There are many options available for a veteran, as skills developed in the military can easily translate to many roles, from construction to criminal justice. What type of career a veteran chooses depends on their lifestyle, preferences, and skills, but there are a few career choices that just make sense. This guide will walk through some of these popular choices for veterans.

Starting a Career as a Veteran

 Before starting on any career path, it’s important for a veteran to examine what their roles were in the military, and what they were particularly skilled at. For example, those who were military leaders might see construction project management as a rewarding career, as many traits and skills required for both jobs overlap. Additionally, you’ll need to know what type of training your potential new career requires and if you want to commit the time to it.

Job Training

 Careers typically need training, even if you have military experience. Training can range from a full college degree to a simple license test. Many careers, such as HVAC technicians or construction workers must be certified in the state they plan on working. For example, if you’re fresh off the Fort McClellan base and plan on staying in the Alabama area permanently, you’ll probably need to take an Alabama general contractor license test prep to make sure you get certified on your first try. The same goes for any other military base across the United States; your career certifications and licenses typically must be for the state you’re going to be working in.

 Be certain to use any military benefits that provide discounted or free school or training for career transitions. This is key to entering the workforce debt-free.

Construction Industry

 Many veterans who enjoy hands-on roles or use leadership strategies may find the construction industry rewarding. There are plenty of hands-on aspects to the job and project management skills are a must. However, the industry sees plenty of upward career mobility. As previously mentioned, construction workers typically need a general contractor license, but certification doesn’t take too much time or money to complete.

Trucking Industry

The trucking industry employs an abundance of veterans in the workforce. Veterans who are accustomed to unusual or long hours will thrive in these careers, particularly if their military experience requires operating heavy equipment or machinery. There’s a good variety to these jobs, from long-distance to local deliveries. Additionally, a solid career can even turn into a entrepreneurial trucking business someday. Many trucking companies offer programs or incentives just to hire veterans, as many companies are veteran-owned or veteran-supporting.

Criminal Justice or Security

 As the military requires strict order and discipline, the criminal justice system requires the same level of professionalism. Many veterans thrive in police officer or private security guard careers, feeling familiar with the soldier or officer environment. This isn’t a bad thing, either, as many police departments are in dire need of more officers. You’ll need to complete written and physical exams to join a police force, as well as join the police academy, but many veterans meet these qualifications already.

Government Officials

 Those who served Uncle Sam may desire to continue doing so. Government roles typically provide decent job security and benefits. Even government careers like postal workers can provide some ideal perks. Some government programs have incentives to consider veterans for work to help their transition to civilian life. Training required depends on the role, but formal schooling isn’t always required.

Firefighting

 Similar to police work, firefighters see a lot of veteran hires. The job can be stressful, demanding, challenging, and dangerous, which is very similar to a military career at times. For these reasons, some veterans with compartmentalization skills thrive in such environments. Firefighting requires rigorous training and testing to start a career, but many veterans can find these types of tests somewhat familiar.

Local Veteran Programs

 It’s important to take a look at local hiring programs and recruiting offices in one’s area. There are many job fairs and postings that specifically cater to helping veterans prepare for civilian careers. Additionally, local companies may be specifically looking for qualified veteran hires to support those who have served. A quick internet search can provide information that applies specifically to a veteran’s city and state.

Conclusion

 Veterans may find difficulty in resuming civilian lifestyles, but career choices are plentiful. With local companies and certain industries seeking qualified veterans to hire, it can be pretty straightforward to find work. Knowing what type of work and training you’ll want to complete is crucial for career success outside of the military. Be certain to use any military benefits that help pay for college or trade school if required. From trucking to police work, many veterans find their calling outside of fatigues quite easily with the right research and planning.