The last two years brought about a number of social and economic changes. Due to the pandemic, many people either lost their jobs or were forced to adapt to the new environment, e.g., remote work, new processes implemented for improved safety, etc. As a result, many people are still looking for a fresh start, and veterans are no exception.
However, as a veteran, you have a unique skillset to offer on the job market, and you can choose virtually any industry. For instance, if you want to do something meaningful and are charismatic and confident, you could try politics. Alternatively, becoming a firefighter or a police officer is also a viable option. And if that’s not your cup of tea, you might want to consider getting a job as an electrician or a commercial driver.
Below, we explore your possibilities in-depth.
Politician
The overall count of veteran representation in Congress is declining. As such, if you were to run for office, you’d need a solid strategy to gather the necessary support, but the opportunity to serve the country and have an interesting career with plenty of opportunities for growth may be well worth the effort.
However, in order to make it happen, you’ll have to think about whether you’re cut out to be a politician. You have to be confident, charismatic, and extroverted, as well as able to work under pressure and be comfortable speaking in front of large groups of people.
Firefighter
Federal organizations of all kinds are not only interested in hiring veterans but actively seek them out. As a veteran, you have the skillset and the mindset they need, ranging from the ability to follow orders to a sense of duty.
Because of that, many people would suggest you become a firefighter. It’s one of the most demanding of your options, as it requires you to stay in top physical shape and work under immense pressure. But if you can cope with that, you’ll be rewarded with great pay and solid benefits. Just keep in mind that you’ll be required to undergo medical and physical examinations. Aside from that, depending on the state that you’re in, you might be expected to pass a written examination.
Police Officer
For the same reasons mentioned above, you could consider becoming a police officer. Just like in the military, you’ll be expected to work under higher-ranking officers, which can sound appealing to anyone who got used to the chain of command, support structure, and camaraderie of the military. In addition, it’s a job that comes with sturdy benefits and great pay.
Still, becoming a police officer isn’t a walk in the park. First, you’ll have to pass a background check. In quite a few states, you’re expected to have an Associate’s degree or equivalent training and pass a licensing exam, too.
To top it all off, working as a police officer is pretty stressful, given the duties that you’ll be expected to attend to and a high level of responsibility. So, if you’re wondering whether working as a police officer is for you, keep all the things listed above in mind.
Electrician
Electricians are always in demand, and that’s not going to change anytime soon. The job is well-paid, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to find work, whether it’s with a company or as a freelancer. In addition, electricians get to work in a variety of settings, from residential to commercial and industrial.
To become an electrician, you’ll have to complete an apprenticeship program. Alternatively, you could get a certificate from a trade school. Doing so would allow you to find a job faster.
As an electrician, you’ll be able to pretty much choose any state or city to work in. Plus, you could always start your own business. It’ll take some time to get things up and running, but it’s definitely doable. You’ll get plenty of opportunities to travel and the freedom to set your own hours, which definitely makes it all worth the hassle.
Commercial Driver
Last but not least, you could become a commercial driver. It’s a job that will allow you to see different parts of the country or even the world, depending on the company you’ll work for. Plus, it’s a relatively stress-free job, which is always a bonus.
Of course, to become a commercial driver, you’ll need to obtain a commercial driver’s license. The requirements for getting a CDL vary from state to state. In the majority of cases, you’ll need to already have a regular driver’s license and a clean driving record. Other than that, you might be required to pass a physical and written examination.
In Conclusion
All in all, the best career options for veterans this year include becoming a politician, a firefighter, or a police officer. Alternatively, you could consider working as an electrician or a commercial driver. While some of the jobs listed here are more demanding than others, they’re all interesting and well-paid.
So, if you’re a veteran looking for a new career, make sure to take the jobs listed above into consideration. And if you feel like none of these suit you, consider booking an appointment with a career counselor. They’ll be more than happy to help you find a profession that’s perfect for you. Good luck!
