Transition from Military to Civilian Life
Returning to civilian life presents new opportunities as well as challenges for Veterans. Many Veterans look forward to life after the military because they can spend more time with family and friends and no longer have to worry about military structure or being deployed. At the same time, transitioning to civilian life may lead to a lot of questions. You may wonder what you are going to do with this new phase of your life, or if you will be able to find a job.
The bottom line is that you can make a successful transition. As you seek employment after the military, remember the skills you have acquired in the military are very valuable to private sector and government organizations. These skills put you at an advantage in the civilian job market. Employers recognize that your ability to handle adversity, work under pressure, and work in a team environment are important skills for every business. If you are contemplating returning to college or seeking new trade skills, there are many opportunities available to you.
The websites below can assist you in making a successful transition to the civilian work and education sectors.
Federal Government Web Sites
US Department of Veterans Affairs Assistance with Veterans Affairs benefits, health care, and VA locations.
Print Out Your VA Welcome Kit - A guide to the benefits and services you've earned throughout your civilian life.
Transition Assistance Online - Transition assistance resources, tools, and job postings for separating service members.
Department of Defense Transition Assistance Program (TAP) - Training and services to help service members prepare for post-military goals.
United States Army Transition Assistance Program (TAP) - Army transition counseling, employment, and education workshops.
United States Army Soldier for Life Program - Connecting Soldiers and Veterans with organizations for opportunities.
United States Marine Corps Transition Readiness Program - Resources and tools for Marines transitioning to civilian life.
United States Navy Transition Assistance Program - Career development and education transition resources.
United States Air Force Transition Assistance Program - Tools and training for Airmen and spouses entering civilian life.
United States Coast Guard Transition Assistance Program - Preparing Coast Guard members for civilian transition.
National Resource Directory - National, state, and local support resources.
VMET (Verification of Military Experience and Training) - Documentation overview of military experience and training.
- Create a resume
- Complete a job application
- Identify credit recommendations
- Identify possible certification or apprenticeship waivers
Department of Labor - Veteran employment and rights resources.
O*NET Online - Career exploration and military-to-civilian job comparison tools.
State Government Web Sites
Florida Department of Veterans Affairs - Entry point for Florida veterans to access earned services and benefits.
State of Florida Jobs - Job openings, resume tools, and labor market information.
Private Sector Web Sites
USAA Military Separation Checklist - Financial planning tools for separation.
MOAA Transition Guide - Networking, resume, and job search guidance.
Corporate Gray - Connecting employers with transitioning military personnel.
Networking Web Sites
LinkedIn Veterans Program - Free 1-year Premium Career subscription for veterans.
VetFriends - Connect with fellow veterans.
RallyPoint - Professional network for military community members.