To overcome these challenges, the United Service Organizations (USO) works with military families through its Pathfinder Transition Program. Pathfinder provides professional development services support throughout the service member or military spouse’s career, as well as when they settle back into civilian life. Here are some ways the USO helps service members plan their next career move.

Pathfinder action plans

USO Transition Specialists work one-on-one with Pathfinder program participants to identify their personal and professional goals and develop individualized action plans that provide a roadmap for achieving them. These action plans also help participants identify and take full advantage of services and resources in the areas of employment, education, financial readiness, and mentorship that are the best fit for their needs.

Transition to the trades

The USO offers periodic webinars to help educate service members and their spouses about career opportunities in various industries, including the skilled trades. Recent webinars with Lowe’s Home Improvement, a North American-wide company based in Mooresville, highlighted careers and the many benefits of working in the electrical field, appliance repair, plumbing, and the HVAC industry.

Professional development workshops

Other webinars help transitioning service members hone networking and other skills that can lead to their next career. The USO’s Transition Talks sessions cover topics such as navigating and leveraging opportunities through LinkedIn, a worldwide, online professional networking service, as well as building a stand-out resume for federal job opportunities. Sessions also include training and certification programs and are available to service members and their spouses.

Google IT Support Professional Certificate

Through a partnership with Google, the Pathfinder Transition Program also incorporates the Google IT Support Professional Certificate for service members, veterans and military spouses. The eight-month certificate program provides participants with the skills and experience needed to qualify for entry-level IT support positions, helping them launch a new career in an in-demand field. After earning their certificate, participants are connected to a consortium of national employers hiring IT candidates.

Service members and military spouses who are transitioning out of the military have years of employment and unique, valuable life experiences. Thanks to programs designed to support them during this time, they are better able to successfully launch post-military careers.