Resources and Support for Veterans Seeking High-Paying Civilian Jobs

Christopher Furlong/GettyImages

Veterans have access to a wealth of resources designed to help them transition into high-paying civilian careers. From government programs to non-profit organizations, here’s a guide to some of the best support systems available.

1. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
The VA offers numerous programs to assist veterans with career training and job placement. Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) services provide counseling, education benefits, and job placement assistance. The VA’s GI Bill can also be used to pay for higher education or vocational training, opening doors to high-paying careers.

2. Hiring Our Heroes
Hiring Our Heroes is a U.S. Chamber of Commerce initiative that helps veterans and military spouses find meaningful employment. The program hosts job fairs, provides resume workshops, and offers a Corporate Fellowship Program that places veterans in 12-week internships with top companies. This hands-on experience can lead to high-paying full-time roles.

3. Onward to Opportunity (O2O)
O2O is a free career training program for veterans, service members, and military spouses. Offered in partnership with Syracuse University, it provides training in fields like IT, project management, and cybersecurity. Participants also receive help with job placement and have access to a network of employers looking to hire veterans.

4. LinkedIn’s Veterans Program
LinkedIn offers a Veterans Program that provides a free one-year Premium subscription, which includes access to LinkedIn Learning. Veterans can use this resource to take courses on various professional skills, optimize their profiles, and network with industry professionals. LinkedIn also has a strong veteran community where you can connect with fellow service members who have transitioned to civilian careers.

5. SkillBridge Program
The SkillBridge Program allows service members to participate in civilian job training, apprenticeships, and internships during their last six months of military service. Partner companies across various industries provide on-the-job training, which can lead to high-paying job offers upon separation from the military. This program is a valuable way to gain civilian experience while still on active duty.

From the Department of Veterans Affairs to programs like Hiring Our Heroes and LinkedIn’s Veterans Program, there are ample resources to help veterans transition into high-paying civilian roles. Taking advantage of these opportunities can make the transition smoother and set you up for long-term success. Whether you need training, networking, or direct job placement, support is available to help you achieve your career goals.