Vets to Tech: Landing the Jobs of the Future

Sergeant Major (retired) Anya Petrova stared at the blinking cursor on her laptop screen. After 22 years of service, she was honorably discharged last year, but the transition to civilian life was proving tougher than any battlefield. Anya had always been a leader, a problem-solver, a master of logistics. But translating those skills into civilian job opportunities felt like learning a new language. She wasn’t alone. Many veterans face similar hurdles, struggling to find their footing in a rapidly changing economy. How can we ensure those who served our country have access to the jobs of the future?

Anya’s story isn’t unique. I’ve seen countless veterans struggle to translate their military experience into civilian terms. At my firm, we specialize in career transition services for former military personnel, and the challenges are often consistent: difficulty articulating skills, lack of awareness of emerging industries, and navigating the complexities of the civilian job market. We had a client last year, a former Marine, who had incredible leadership skills honed in high-pressure situations, but he couldn’t get past the initial resume screen for a project management role. It was frustrating for everyone involved.

One of the biggest shifts we’re seeing is the growing demand for tech skills. According to a recent report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 15 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 682,800 new jobs. This is where veterans can truly shine.

Consider cybersecurity. The threat of cyberattacks is only increasing, and companies are desperate for skilled professionals to protect their data and infrastructure. Cybersecurity roles are projected to grow by 33% between now and 2028 (that’s the latest data available), creating a wealth of opportunity for veterans. Many veterans already possess valuable skills in this area, thanks to their military training in areas such as communications security, network defense, and intelligence gathering. The challenge lies in formalizing that experience with relevant certifications. CompTIA Security+ , Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) are just a few examples that can significantly boost a veteran’s resume.

Anya, for example, had extensive experience in communications and electronics, but she lacked the certifications that civilian employers recognized. She enrolled in a cybersecurity bootcamp through the Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses (VET TEC) program , which provides tuition assistance for veterans pursuing training in high-demand STEM fields. This program is a game-changer. It allows veterans to acquire the skills they need without incurring significant debt. The VET TEC program approves specific training providers, so do your research before enrolling.

But tech isn’t the only avenue. The healthcare industry is also booming, driven by an aging population and advances in medical technology. Roles like medical coding and billing, healthcare administration, and medical assisting are all in high demand. And again, veterans possess many of the qualities that healthcare employers value: discipline, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively under pressure. A report by the National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics found that veterans are more likely to be employed in healthcare support occupations than non-veterans.

Of course, some challenges remain. One of the biggest is overcoming the perception that military skills are not directly transferable to civilian jobs. This is simply not true. Leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability are all highly valued by employers in every industry. The key is to articulate these skills in a way that resonates with civilian hiring managers. This is where targeted resume writing and interview coaching can make a huge difference. We teach veterans to use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to showcase their accomplishments and quantify their impact. For example, instead of saying “Managed a team,” a veteran could say “Led a team of 10 soldiers in a high-pressure environment, resulting in a 15% increase in operational efficiency.” See the difference?

Anya, after completing her cybersecurity bootcamp, landed a job as a security analyst at a Fortune 500 company in Atlanta. She was initially hesitant, unsure if she could handle the technical demands of the role. But she quickly proved herself, drawing on her military experience to identify and mitigate potential threats. Within six months, she was promoted to a senior analyst position, leading a team of junior analysts. Her success is a testament to the power of training, mentorship, and the unwavering determination of our veterans.

One area where I think we need to see more focus is in supporting veteran entrepreneurs. Many veterans possess the drive and leadership skills to start their own businesses, but they often lack the resources and support they need to succeed. Organizations like the Small Business Administration (SBA) offer a variety of programs and services to help veteran-owned businesses, including access to capital, mentorship, and training. However, more can be done to raise awareness of these resources and make them more accessible to veterans.

We had another client, a former Air Force pilot, who wanted to start a drone photography business. He had the technical skills and the passion, but he didn’t know where to start. We helped him develop a business plan, secure funding, and navigate the regulatory landscape. Today, his business is thriving, providing aerial photography services to real estate developers and construction companies throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area.

Here’s what nobody tells you: the transition from military to civilian life is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time, effort, and a willingness to adapt. But with the right support and resources, veterans can overcome the challenges and achieve their career goals. The future of job opportunities for veterans is bright, but it requires a concerted effort from government, industry, and the veteran community itself.

Anya’s story offers a clear lesson: targeted training and a willingness to embrace new technologies can open doors to fulfilling and well-paying careers. For veterans, this means identifying in-demand skills, pursuing relevant certifications, and leveraging resources like the VET TEC program. It also means showcasing the unique strengths and experiences that veterans bring to the table.

Many veterans have untapped skills that can be used in civilian careers. It’s all about finding the right fit. Consider how your military experience can be an asset.

If you are struggling with the transition, you might want to read more about veterans’ struggles in civilian life.

Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Attend industry events, connect with other veterans on LinkedIn, and reach out to companies that actively recruit veterans. One connection can make all the difference in landing your dream job. So, what specific action will you take this week to advance your career goals?