SERVING IN CIVILIAN LIFE
MILITARY personnel looking for a career change into civilian work do not have to pursue jobs in the obvious sectors such as police and security.
Many skills learnt in military service – both soft and technical – are in demand across a range of sectors.
Mates4Mates chief executive Simon Sauer says veterans can take advantage of free services such as Mates4Mates’ employment assistance, which includes CV development and career coaching.
“Advanced technical training, leadership and management skills, self-discipline and loyalty are core qualities that are transferable across a wide range of industries,” he says.
Better Care personal care attendant Sue Longhorn served for 12 years in the military before moving into civilian work on military projects and eventually aged care.
She says her self discipline and skills in communication, team work and organisation have all come in handy in her new line of work.
“Ex-military personnel tend to gravitate towards security or private investigating but there are so many other things if you want to redo your skills,” she says.
“I’ve gone back to school a number of times to reinvent myself coming out of the military.
“If anyone is interested in caring, there is always work there once you are qualified.
“Agencies like Better Care let you work even if you aren’t qualified but are registered and doing the qualification.”
East Coast Apprenticeships chief executive Alan Sparks says ex-military personnel should also consider trade careers.
ECA has joined forces with eight other training organisations – Skillinvest, MIGAS, 1300Apprentice, Hunter Valley Training Company, Adelaide Training and Employment Centre, Group Training South West, Golden West Apprenticeships and SMART Apprenticeships – to launch the Help a Hero campaign as part of a Defence Trade Program, which offers adult apprenticeships to selected veterans.
Sparks, who helped design the program based on his 27 years of experience in the army, says soldiers deserve the nation’s support in transitioning across to civilian life.
“Ex-Defence personnel make outstanding employees,” he says.
“You’re going to get someone who has integrity, resilience, and who will operate very effectively as part of your team.
“We’re keen to hear from people who have previous experience either before they joined service or who developed technical skills within service life but we are also looking at people who don’t have previous experience but who have that aspiration.
“We are also heavily reliant on host employers putting their hand up to help one of our diggers and heroes.”
To offer or apply for an apprenticeship, email defence@nationalapprentcieships.com.au