Veterans to Tech Innovators: Bridging Skills to New Industries was originally published on DiversityJobs.
Sometimes the transition from military to civilian life can be a bumpy one. Veterans must make adjustments and adapt in all aspects of their lives, not least of all how they earn a living. Those who are technically inclined might be tempted to try to land a job in the tech industry. While entirely feasible, they might wonder how to tackle this potentially daunting prospect.
In this article, we discuss several promising pathways vets can consider as they attempt to break into the tech field. We also explore how veterans can translate the skills they learned in the military into the competencies tech recruiters want to see on resumes.
- Coding Bootcamps
One viable way veterans can get their foot in the door is through coding bootcamps. These intensive, immersive programs offer hands-on training in software development, equipping participants with the skills they need to thrive in a variety of tech roles. Even better, many coding bootcamps provide specialized programs for veterans, giving them the support and guidance they need to make a smooth transition into the tech world.
Beyond teaching technical skills, these bootcamps also encourage teamwork and foster a sense of camaraderie, which often resonates with veterans who are used to working closely with their fellow service members. Moreover, many coding bootcamps offer financial assistance or accept GI Bill benefits, making them more accessible to vets who are pursuing a career in tech.
- Tech Internships
Internships are also a great way for veterans to gain some practical experience in the tech industry. Some tech companies even offer internship programs designed specifically for vets, providing them with the opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals and obtain exposure to various aspects of the industry. These internships not only help veterans develop technical skills but also allow them to network and explore different career paths within the tech sector.
- Transferable Skills
One key strength that most veterans bring to the table is their unique problem-solving capabilities. In the military, service members are trained to think quickly on their feet, adapt to changing circumstances, and find innovative solutions to complex challenges. These skills translate well into the tech world, where problem-solving and critical thinking are essential.
Veterans also usually have extensive experience working collaboratively within a team in high-pressure environments. These skills are highly valued in the tech industry, where cross-functional teams are often relied on to come up with solutions to complicated problems. By leveraging their military experience, vets can bring a fresh perspective to tech companies and even drive innovation in the industry.
This isn’t to say there won’t be some challenges. Transitioning from the military to a civilian tech job isn’t always an easy undertaking. Veterans may struggle to translate their military experience in ways that resonate with civilian employers. Other times, they might encounter barriers related to licensure or certification requirements. To overcome these challenges, vets should seek out the resources and support services that exist to help them.
It’s important that veterans recognize all the ways they can contribute to the civilian workforce. In fact, they possess one-of-a-kind skills and experiences that can help them stand out and become valuable assets in the tech industry. To make the transition successful, vets should emphasize their exceptional problem-solving and collaborative abilities to tech employers and consider trying coding bootcamps and internships. Surrounded by the right support and resources, vets will likely find the tech sector a welcoming and rewarding place to work outside the military.
