Guard and Reserve Career Transition Resources

Transitioning out of the National Guard or Reserve requires a strategic approach. Do you want to change careers as you move out of the military? Do you want to stay in your field but explore new opportunities to replace your Guard/Reserve income?

Some will read that line and wonder why it’s necessary to replace part-time military income, but don’t forget that there are many full-time Guard and Reserve jobs between programs like Title 5 and Title 32. Not all Guard and Reserve experiences are the same.

Balancing military obligations with civilian life, including potential deployments and training, can create hurdles for both service members and potential employers, even when it’s time to retire or separate from military service.

What must you remember as you prepare to leave the military and look for new career options?

Guard and Reserve Career Transition First Steps

Your first stop is typically the mandatory Transition Assistance Program (TAP) appointments you have before retiring or separating. TAP is a good “foundational resource.”

You’ll attend workshops as part of TAP that may cover resume building, interview techniques, and financial planning. Begin this process early, well before your separation date. If you don’t get the resources you need from your TAP experience, many of the options below can help.

Where to Find Guard and Reserve Transition Resources

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) program. VR&E provides career counseling, job training, and educational support for veterans with service-connected disabilities.

Military OneSource offers transition guides and other resources, specifically for the Guard and Reserve.

The USO offers a transition program, job fairs, networking events, and mentorship opportunities, connecting service members with potential employers.

How the ESGR Can Help

It pays to fully understand the role of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is vital. ESGR acts as a liaison between service members and civilian employers, ensuring compliance with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA).

Not all transitioning military members need to exercize their USERRA rights, but if you just got back from a deployment and have a transition coming too, you should review your USERRA options.

State Government, LinkedIn, and Employment Agencies

Many states have dedicated state-level government agencies that help veterans and Guard/Reserve members, offering resume reviews, job placement assistance, and training. State workforce development boards collaborate with local employers to identify job openings, and that can help veterans in transition.

Utilize your military connections and build new relationships in the civilian sector. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn.

Translating military skills into civilian terms is crucial. Focus on transferable skills. Your leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and other military skills are valuable. Quantify your accomplishments with specific examples in your resume and interviews.

Education and training improves your career prospects. Consider pursuing additional education or certifications to update skills you currently have or to add skills to your list. Many institutions offer programs tailored to veterans and service members, with flexible scheduling and online options. Have you considered using a veteran-friendly employment agency to find a new job in a new career?

Mentorship can be a useful tool when re-entering civilian life, and while part-time military service may not require the same “re-entry” considerations as for active duty, mentorship is still a valuable option.

Seek out experienced professionals who have successfully transitioned from military to civilian careers. They can offer guidance, advice, and networking opportunities. Financial planning is essential.

Transition Resources

• Military OneSource provides various transition resources, including career counseling, financial planning, mental health support, and relocation assistance.
• USAJOBs is the federal government’s official website for federal job opportunities.
• Department of Labor Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS) has resources and assistance for veterans seeking employment, including job training and placement.
• U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Veterans Business Development provides resources and training for veteran entrepreneurs.
• My Next Move for Veterans is an interactive tool that allows veterans to explore civilian careers that are similar to their military occupations.
• The American Legion offers assistance with employment, education, and other veteran-related issues.
• CareerRecon connects transitioning Guard and Reserve members to veteran-friendly employers.