If You're Separating From the Military, Consider Upskilling with These Essential Skills

Transitioning from the military to civilian jobs can be difficult. As veterans look toward their next chapter, preparing for civilian jobs after military service often involves learning new skills to meet new workforce demands. Whether you’re actively planning your separation or have a family member who is, focusing on upskilling can open doors to the best careers for veterans in high-demand industries.

Why Upskilling is Essential for  Veterans

The skills gained during military service are valuable, but civilian industries often require additional, specialized abilities. Upskilling bridges the gap between military experience and civilian job requirements, making veterans stand out to veteran-friendly employers.

Learning new skills, and finding a career coach, can also provide clarity and direction during the transition, helping veterans feel more confident in their ability to adapt. With many industries evolving due to technology and automation, staying competitive means continuously building expertise.

So You’re Out of the Military…now What?

High-Demand Skills Veterans Want to Know

Veterans have a strong foundation of leadership and critical problem-solving. These qualities are highly sought after, but combining them with technical or industry-specific skills can unlock even more opportunities. Here are a few key areas for upskilling or reskilling:

• Technology and IT: Jobs in cybersecurity, data analytics and cloud computing are booming. These fields align with problem-solving skills honed during military service and offer stability and growth potential.
• Project Management: Veterans excel at managing teams and resources under pressure. Gaining certifications in project management can translate these abilities into civilian industries.
• Healthcare and Medical Technology: The healthcare sector is constantly expanding. Transitioning veterans can explore careers in medical equipment technology, health administration or nursing.
• Skilled Trades: Electricians, HVAC technicians and machinists are in high demand. Many trade certifications can be completed in less than a year, providing a quick path to employment.
• Sales and Business Development: Communication and leadership skills make veterans strong candidates for sales roles. Learning about CRM software or sales strategies can enhance their marketability.

How Families Can Support Veterans as They Transition to Civilian Career

Family members and friends of veterans can play a crucial role in their career transition. Suggesting upskilling opportunities, helping research career paths or even connecting them with career coaching for military personnel can make a significant difference. Encouragement and guidance can provide the support veterans need to succeed in civilian careers.

If you’re unsure where to start, resources like pepelwerk’s Career Assistant can help veterans identify their strengths and align them with future opportunities. The best part is that because pepelwerk is an approved vendor through the federal government, they can offer you 12 months of preferred membership and premium benefits at no cost to you!

Start Your Journey with pepelwerk

Separating from the military to the workforce doesn’t have to be overwhelming. pepelwerk offers tools and resources to help veterans identify their career goals, upskill for the jobs of the future and connect with veteran-friendly employers. Take the first step today, and let pepelwerk guide you to a fulfilling civilian career.