The Role of the Military in Helping Veterans Find Jobs Post-Serve

Transitions from military service to civilian jobs can be challenging, with differing levels of support depending on the branch and era. Each branch of the military offers varying degrees of assistance to help veterans find employment, but personal persistence plays a significant role. This article explores the assistance provided by the military and the experiences of veterans in finding civilian jobs.

The Role of the USMC and Other Branches

Personal experience with the USMC serves as a poignant example. After 9/11, the author chose to serve in the Marine Corps. Despite being decorated, local law enforcement departments were not interested in the military's endorsements. The author spent about a year finding a job, eventually securing a position with a sheriff's department in their county. This illustrates that personal persistence is crucial.

"Did being in the military help me get a job? Not really," reflects the author. "Was the military useful in providing skills that transferred? Maybe." The veteran adds, "I was a combat vet and I..." indicating that some military experience did transfer beneficially to law enforcement roles, like tactical training and resilience.

The Air Force's Transition Assistance Program (TAP)

The Air Force has a comprehensive Transition Assistance Program (TAP) to assist separating or retiring members. This program is a week-long workshop that includes:

How to translate military experience into civilian resumes Applying for federal jobs Mock interviews Job search strategies

TAP is aimed at preparing veterans for the transition before they officially leave the service. Once members are out, the onus is on them to continue their job search efforts.

Breaking Down the Veterans Job Search Experience in 1978

In 1978, the landscape for veterans was even less supportive. The author recalls, "In 1978 there was no help of any kind. I walked in, got my discharge paperwork, picked up my last check, and went home." This stark comparison highlights how much support mechanisms have evolved over time.

IT Background and Success Stories

Some military careers translate seamlessly into civilian jobs. The author with an IT background found success. The process of becoming a combat veteran often requires certification and training, which can be advantageous in the civilian job market:

Certifications: Employment agencies often prefer candidates with pre-established certifications, reducing the need for additional training by the employer. Work Ethic: Employers value veterans' work ethic, professional attitude, and resilience, traits honed through military service.

Typically, grunts (ex-service members in combat roles) pursue careers like police officers, return to college for additional education, or seek certifications in new fields. Every experience is valuable, as they are expected to perform critical tasks under pressure, ensuring they gain valuable skills through their training and deployment.

While the military does help veterans in various ways, the transition to civilian life is ultimately the responsibility of the individual. Utilizing available resources and maintaining a proactive approach can significantly enhance the chances of success in the job market after military service.