Are There Civilian Careers the Military Can’t Prepare You For?

Richard McCanus correctly notes that military service prepares individuals for almost any job due to the discipline and adaptability it instills. However, some might wonder if there are specific civilian careers that military training doesn't adequately prepare one for. In this article, we will explore the universality of military training and the particular scenarios where it might fall short.

Universal Benefits of Military Service

First and foremost, military service equips individuals with invaluable skills that are transferable to almost any profession. Discipline, leadership, and adaptability are just a few key areas where military training excels. Members are trained to handle high-pressure situations, work collaboratively, and maintain peak physical and mental conditioning. These skills are undoubtedly beneficial in the civilian world, making soldiers highly sought-after candidates.

Unique Disciplines and Their Impact

While military service can provide a strong foundation, there are specific disciplines that might require additional training to transition successfully into certain civilian careers. One such example is the role of a Burmese linguist, as described in the personal anecdote.

The Case of a Burmese Linguist

In 1971, Richard McCanus, a former Burmese linguist, found himself applying for unemployment benefits after his military service. Despite the experience and skills he had gained, he discovered that there were no employment opportunities in his field in Toledo, Ohio. This scenario highlights the unique challenges faced when transitioning from a military specialization to the civilian workforce.

Military training in a specific language like Burmese is highly specialized and requires years of focused study and practice. While the discipline, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills developed during military service are invaluable, the specialized knowledge of the language might not align with the available jobs in the local market. This doesn't necessarily mean that the military training was inadequate but rather that the job market's demand for such skills was limited in that region.

Addressing Specific Challenges and Solutions

To address challenges like the one faced by Richard McCanus, several strategies can be implemented:

Further Education and Training: Many civilian careers require additional education or specialized training. Military veterans can utilize resources like the Post-9/11 GI Bill to pursue further education and enhance their skill sets. Networking and Job Fair Participation: Engaging in networking events, attending job fairs, and leveraging connections can help uncover job opportunities in specialized fields. Skill Transfer: Highlighting transferable skills, such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving, can make a veteran more attractive to potential employers in various fields.

Conclusion

While military service undoubtedly prepares individuals for a wide range of civilian careers, there are specific disciplines and specializations that might require additional preparation. By understanding these unique challenges and implementing strategies to address them, veterans can navigate the transition to the civilian workforce with confidence. The story of Richard McCanus and his Burmese linguist background serves as a reminder that while military training is invaluable, ongoing education and networking are crucial in finding the right fit in the civilian world.