Leaving the military can feel overwhelming. For one thing, it is a big change to leave the service and find a role in a new company. But the challenge of leaving the military goes beyond just the fact you need to find a new job. But former service members must also navigate a change into a workforce that has a culture and rhythm so different from military life. Add in the complication’s life brings for service members, and life situations don’t always look the same for each service member.
Resources for Active Duty Service members
Because of the multiple challenges related to leaving the military service there have been several resources created to help members. There are resources that members can use both while they are still on active duty. Then as they transition there are additional resources they can use as veterans.
1. Transition Assistance Program (TAP)
TAP is traditionally a weeklong class where members can get information ranging from how to find a new job to what resources are available to them through the Department of Veteran Affairs. This course can feel like a fire hose of information. Sometimes it can be valuable to take this course years before you transition and then once again as you leave the service. Some installations even provide different TAP courses. These courses are dependent on how long you have been in the military. And they can help you be better prepared for the next phase especially if you have been in the military until retirement.
2. State Specific Benefit Programs
This resource is open to both veterans and active duty, but if you are trying to decide if you should move or stay at your current location, it is great to understand what benefits are available to you in your state. Each state has their own way to showcase their veteran benefits ranging from a website with information, veteran resource officers, or full day classes highlighting benefits.
3. Resume Writing Courses
Many installations provide additional courses that go beyond TAP. Since military members often find themselves writing their first resume when they leave the military, a resume writing course is a great course to look for to help prepare you for success. Other courses on interviews and salary negotiation are also great to consider.
4. Skillbridge
Skillbridge is a program that allows service members to use their last few months (up to six) working for an organization that is part of the Skillbridge program through an internship. Service member can pick something like their military career or pick something new and unique. Utilizing this benefit requires planning and commanders’ approval.
Department of Veteran Affairs Resources
Veterans may struggle with the transition out of the military, but there are resources and support to help you in your transition. Don’t be afraid to use these resources and ask other veterans what resources are available to you.
1. Post 9/11 GI Bill
The GI Bill gives Veterans the opportunity to attend college and earn a degree or advanced degree to help them in their next career path. The Post 9/11 GI Bill allows members to take course either in person or online.
2. VA Disability and VA Health Care
Another benefit veterans can receive and should know about are VA Health Care and VA Disability. These are two separate benefits, and you do not have to have one to get the other. VA Health Care offers veterans’ health care benefits and VA Disability can increase the amount of health care benefits. Also, VA Disability can providing a direct compensation to veterans based on their rating. VA hospital also offer several classes and programs to help and connect veterans. Lastly, if you served overseas during your time in the service, make sure you check out the PACT Act to ensure you understand what may be covered from your service.
Other Veteran Resources
If you are looking to start your own business instead of finding a job with a company, there are several resources created for veterans. Boots to Business is a program created by the Small Business Administration and works to help veterans start their businesses. The Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) has also created a resources to help veterans.
If you are looking for mentorship in your new career, check out American Corporate Partners. ACP matches veterans with mentors from industry that can help veterans in their career. Additional programs for veterans include Vets to Industry, Leadership Transition Institute that offer courses and virtual meet ups that allow veterans to connect.
There are also organizations focused on helping veterans find jobs. Recruit Military, Hire Our Heroes, and Hire Heroes. Veterans can also find support by joining veteran organizations such as the Veteran of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, American Veterans or a local organization focused on something you are passionate about.
