As an active-duty member, you have decided it is soon time to get out of the military. One of the tasks that must be completed is going through Transition Assistance training. While in this training, the number one requested resource is employment assistance. There are many aspects nested within this topic. But when you’re looking at your next step, you have to consider which locations have the jobs you want, the industries that are in hiring mode, and which jobs are actually open to you. 

Locations – Look Where there Are Jobs

This is important as it not only relates to where your family will be living post-military, but it is also where veterans are finding the most employment opportunities and support resources. As noted in the image below, most of these top 10 locations are near military installations.  This makes it easier to get access to veterans’ services, community support from like-minded veterans, and other familiar resources military members are used to using i.e… PX, commissary, etc.

Because these locations are close to military installations, they are good sources to find work in the industries of government, aerospace, and defense contracting.

Image Courtesy of Hire Heroes USA

Industries that are hiring

Veterans are known to have many of the soft skills employers are looking for when hiring. In the above locations, they are overall looking for veterans with a combination of discipline, adaptability, and mission-driven commitment. 

Veterans who have leadership and problem-solving experience. and coming from a job that had a high level of responsibility such as many of the senior NCO and Officer positions, make them a valuable resource in the healthcare industry, in addition to government and defense contracting.

Careers in the technical fields of information technology, and aerospace and manufacturing like to hire veterans with complex systems and safety protocol experience for their open positions. Veterans tend to not only do well but thrive in these industries based on their military training and experience which has prepared them well in positions requiring resilience, teamwork, and strategic thinking.

Jobs that are being filled within these industries

The jobs available within these industries are also important to note.

The combined soft skills of many veterans make them ripe for the picking of various jobs For example, with a strong background in safety, maintenance, and work experience, veterans are suited for jobs such as installation maintenance, repair, and security where an attention to detail and adherence to protocols are important.

Having experience in mentorship and training is well suited for a job in teaching or some type of instructional position. For veterans with experience using analytical skills, problem-solving, and communication, jobs in management, analysis and high-level customer service skills fill the bill.

Veterans excel in sectors like government, defense contracting, healthcare, and information technology, by leveraging their adaptability, leadership, and technical expertise in their fields. Job functions such as logistics, project management, and training also benefit from veterans’ problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and operational insight.

 

As noted, the 10 key employment markets, including Washington, D.C., San Diego, and Virginia Beach, provide veterans with strong community resources, proximity to VA health centers, and access to thriving industries. These areas reflect an ideal blend of opportunity and support for veterans transitioning to civilian life.