Great careers for veterans
Military experience can lay a solid foundation for a career in your civilian life. With your teamwork, dedication and the ability to follow directions, you’re a desirable candidate for many employers.
Here are some jobs that are best for veterans looking to transfer their military skills into a new career.
1. Security guard
Because so many veterans have been trained in everything from conflict resolution to self-defense, they’re often a first choice for roles as security guards. Of course, many veterans also pursue careers in law enforcement. However, that route will require more formal training and education.
2. Emergency medical technician
From the fast-paced environment to the ability to help people, this sort of role checks many of the boxes that veterans — particularly those with combat medic training — might be looking to fill in a civilian career. A career as an EMT will require some additional certifications; the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (nremt.org/rwd/public) is a good place to start, and be sure to check licensing requirements by state.
3. Computer support technician
For those who found an interest in cybersecurity and solving complex technical problems, a career as a computer support technician or an IT specialist might be a perfect fit. Veterans with solid experience could qualify for entrylevel roles without any additional education or certifications.
4. Truck driver
As a military veteran, you’re used to working long and often odd hours. You possess great mental stamina, and you have better situational awareness than the vast majority of people out there. Whether you drive a semi across the country or work more normal hours driving and protecting an armored truck, a career in this field is an understandably popular choice among many veterans who choose to get their commercial driver’s license.
5. Supply chain manager
Even those who may not have direct experience with logistics while in the military will still bring some knowledge to the table in regards to inventorying, managing, distributing and warehousing assets.
6. Project manager
You’re organized, detail-oriented and know how to lead a team.
Those are all excellent qualities to have as a project manager. There are voluntary certifications to become a project manager, but many employers would be willing to consider your military history as solid enough background to get your start in this career.
7. Sales representative
As a military member, you need to know how to form relationships, establish trust, and provide necessary guidance and recommendations. While it might not be the first career path to come to mind, many veterans find a role in sales to be a natural segue from their experience in the military. Many entry-level positions likely won’t involve any requirements beyond your military experience.