For Staying in Defense & Security
SkillBridge Programs: Defense contractors and security companies participate in DOD SkillBridge. Check the SkillBridge database for operations, security, and training positions. Some law enforcement agencies also offer SkillBridge internships.
Law Enforcement: Federal law enforcement (CBP, Secret Service, ATF, DEA) and state/local agencies actively recruit combat arms veterans. Physical fitness, discipline under pressure, and weapons proficiency are valued. Check age requirements — many federal 1811 positions cap at 37.
Explosive Ordnance / Range Operations: Mortarmen with ammunition handling and range safety experience can pursue careers in ammunition management, explosive safety, and range operations. Defense contractors managing military installations need qualified range safety officers.
For Careers Outside Defense
Construction Management: The construction industry values field leadership, physical endurance, and the ability to manage teams in harsh conditions. OSHA 30-Hour Construction is the entry certification (~$150-300, can be taken online). Combined with PMP, this opens construction management career paths. BLS median: $106,900.
Operations Management: Your experience coordinating complex operations under time pressure translates to operations management across manufacturing, logistics, and distribution. BLS median: $102,950. Consider APICS CPIM certification for manufacturing operations.
Project Management: The PMP certification (PMI) is the gold standard. Planning mortar operations — timelines, resources, coordination, risk — is project management under extreme conditions. Cost: ~$555 (PMI member). GI Bill covers prep courses.
Skilled Trades: Electrician, HVAC, welding, and plumbing apprenticeships are accessible and well-paying. Many accept GI Bill and have veteran hiring preferences. BLS median for electricians: $65,280 with 11% growth.
Federal Employment (USAJobs): Create your USAJobs profile immediately. Combat arms veterans qualify for a wide range of federal positions. Veterans' Preference is most powerful at GS-5 through GS-11 levels. Federal resumes are 2 pages max. Build yours here.
Veteran Networking: American Corporate Partners (ACP) provides free mentorship from corporate executives. This is especially valuable for combat arms veterans breaking into corporate careers where you may not have existing industry connections.
Education Benefits: GI Bill covers degrees, certifications, and trade school programs. For combat arms veterans, consider programs that lead to specific career outcomes: construction management, supply chain management, business administration, or trade apprenticeships. Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool to verify program approval.
Clearance Leverage: If you hold a Secret clearance, it has market value with defense contractors. ClearanceJobs.com lists positions requiring clearances. The clearance stays active for up to 24 months after separation.
BMR Career Resources
Marine Infantry Resume Guide | Complete Military Resume Guide | Top Companies Hiring Veterans | Build Your Resume Free