For many transitioning service members, moving from military to civilian life can feel unfamiliar. What is often overlooked, however, is how closely many civilian careers align with the skills veterans already bring to the table. Leadership, adaptability, technical expertise and the ability to perform under pressure are not just transferable—they are in high demand.The real challenge is not whether veterans are qualified, but where to apply their strengths. Four sectors in particular—STEM, energy, construction and finance—stand out for those seeking meaningful, stable and growth-oriented careers.STEM CareersCareers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics allow veterans to build on the technical training…
Author: USVM
Veteran-owned businesses continue to play a critical role in strengthening the U.S. economy, bringing leadership, accountability and mission-focused execution into the private sector. One standout example is Sevan Multi-Site Solutions, Inc. (Sevan), founded and led by CEO Jim Evans—a company that has translated military values into measurable business impact nationwide.Sevan is a global leader in program management, site development, design, engineering and construction services, specializing in complex, multi-site rollouts for large-scale clients. The company partners with some of the most recognized brands across retail, fuel and convenience, restaurants and government services. By offering end-to-end solutions—from initial planning and design through…
Transitioning from military service to higher education can present unique challenges for veterans and military spouses, as well as their children. Many colleges and universities have established veteran resource centers (VRCs) to assist military-affiliated students in navigating academic life, securing benefits and connecting with support networks.Academic Support & AdvisingOne of the key functions of a VRC is to provide academic support tailored to veterans and their families. Many centers offer dedicated advisors who understand the complexities of military benefits, such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill and the Yellow Ribbon Program. These advisors can help students maximize their education benefits, select…
Transitioning from military service to civilian life is a major milestone. While leaving the armed forces often means saying goodbye to a familiar way of life, it also opens the door to exciting new career opportunities. The good news? Veterans already possess many of the skills employers value most—leadership, discipline, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, and a strong work ethic.Whether you’re preparing to separate from the military or have been a civilian for years, there are countless careers where your experience can give you a competitive advantage. Here are some of the top career paths that are especially well-suited for veterans. Project…
By Dee BakerVeterans entering civilian organizations often bring leadership experience that has been lived, tested and refined under pressure. Yet the challenge many organizations face is not whether veterans possess leadership capability, but whether the leadership identity shaped through military service is fully understood within civilian workplaces. Recognizing and integrating that leadership identity requires more than hiring initiatives. It requires organizational leaders who are willing to listen, reflect and cultivate cultures where diverse leadership perspectives can thrive.Leadership IdentityLeadership in the military develops in environments where accountability, mission clarity and responsibility for others are woven into daily operations. Service members are…
Are you a veteran transitioning into civilian employment and seeking ways to maximize your job search success? In today’s competitive job market, especially within veteran-focused job boards, the strategic use of keywords on your resume can significantly impact your visibility and appeal to potential employers. By understanding how to optimize your resume with targeted keywords, you can enhance your chances of landing your desired job role within the civilian workforce. The Importance of Veteran-Focused Job Boards Veteran-focused job boards serve as invaluable resources for individuals transitioning from military to civilian careers. These platforms are specifically designed to connect veterans with…
If you’re a veteran with dreams of running your own business, you’ve already proven you have the discipline, dedication, and leadership skills to succeed. But let’s be real—getting the right funding to kickstart or expand your business can feel like navigating a minefield. Luckily, there are plenty of loan options out there tailored just for veterans, and we’re here to help you figure out how to secure the financing you need.Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of business loans, let’s acknowledge one simple fact: veterans are naturally built for business. The same qualities that help service members thrive—problem-solving, adaptability, teamwork—are…
Veterans transitioning from military service to civilian life often seek higher education to enhance their career prospects. Online degree programs offer flexibility and accessibility, making them an excellent choice for veterans balancing work, family and education. Here, we explore some of the top online degree programs tailored for veterans, their benefits, and why these institutions stand out. Additionally, we’ll highlight whether they accept the Post-9/11 GI Bill, participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program and the types of degrees offered.American Military UniversityAmerican Military University (AMU) is an online, military-friendly university that is part of the American Public University System (APUS). It’s…
As the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, Navy Federal Credit Union is teaming up with the National Flag Foundation as the national presenting sponsor of the Light to Unite initiative, a nationwide effort encouraging communities to come together in a shared display of patriotism and unity.On July 4 at 9 p.m. ET, Americans across the country are invited to illuminate their homes, businesses and community spaces in red, white and blue. On social media, they’re also encouraged to tag @NationalFlagFoundation and #LightToUnite when sharing photos or videos of their lights.Light to Unite is endorsed by America250 and supported…
After 32 years in uniform, I know stability matters to the men and women who have served. Home is the anchor that provides security and a sense of belonging. Yet even with a well-earned VA home loan benefit, many veterans struggle to establish roots after leaving the structured world of military life. Today, as a retired Rear Admiral and Executive Chairman of NewDay USA, I have the privilege of helping veterans become homeowners while mentoring young executives dedicated to serving them.Despite the powerful advantages of a VA home loan, only about 22%—roughly 3.9 million—of the nation’s 18 million veterans use…
