Some might find transitioning from service member to civilian complex, and others might also have difficulty finding a job, but there are great opportunities in skill trades for Veterans. Ever since then, the country has faced some problems in terms of careers, as there are not enough workers qualified to fill the jobs, and there is a downward trend in young people wanting to enter the field. According to some reports, around 1.9 million manufacturing jobs could remain vacant. Bloomberg projected that there will be 550,000 plumbers shortage by 2027, almost 30% of union electricians are nearing retirement, and aging workers are preparing to retire in fields such as auto technicians or construction.
Why Do Veterans Fit the Role?
Working in the skilled trade is not for everyone; it seems like an easy job, but there are certain skills that a person must possess in order to excel in this industry. Veterans have the experience that they can bring in skilled trades. Additionally, they have a different level of determination on the job and want to do it at a high level of efficacy. Skill trades for Veterans are a great avenue where they can quickly find employment after they rejoin civilian life.
Further, if a Veteran wants to learn new skills, various vocational programs are available for entry-level jobs. There is also an opportunity for a Vet to partake in on-the-job training while sharpening their skills under the supervision of an employer. A Vet can receive a monthly salary plus VA education benefits. Those who want to advance their skills can use their GI Bill benefits to help pay for graduate school, training programs, and college. They may also be eligible for various education and training programs, which is helpful for finding trade jobs for Veterans.
Various Skilled Trade Jobs for Veterans
The skilled trades for Veterans have been an appealing option if one wants to start their post-military education, as this is a great way to learn without the skyrocketing costs of college tuition. Also, once a Vet has the necessary skills, they can be in high demand, and great success awaits. According to VP of military admissions, John Decouteau, there are also various trades in the military, such as avionics technicians, diesel mechanics, and welders. That is why many service members have civilian certifications or credentials that will help them land a job once transitioned.
Even though the GI Bill can help these Vets with their education, some businesses are willing to pay for their schooling just to learn a skilled trade. Aside from this, they will work as an apprentice before getting hired for a full-time job. Decouteau even added that there are around over 4,000 employers who are willing to pay from $500 to their entire tuition provided they will work for them. Skilled trades for Veterans are highly in-demand. They even received an email stating that a company is willing to pay $30,000 to help with scholarships.
Julie Mueller, president of UTI in Austin, Texas, even mentioned that her institution’s most favored programs are diesel technician and auto. These are separate programs, but many still took them to gain marketability. HVAC, welding, and refrigeration are popular among Vets. Mueller added that some of the best students are military members.
Best Skilled Trade Jobs for Veterans in the Market
Once Veterans have acquired the necessary skills, they can choose what they want to focus on from these high-paying skilled trade jobs.
Pipefitters, Steamfitters, and Plumbers
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Vets in these trades earn an average annual wage of $58,580, but in other areas of the country, it is nearly $99,000 per year. This report was from 2020, but there is probably much more now since this is an in-demand job.
Elevator Mechanics
They focus more on installing, maintaining, and repairing elevators, escalators, and other moving walkways. They are required to work in confined spaces, which is why they make a good amount of money.
Aircraft Mechanics
Since one of the primary functions of some military personnel is to maintain aircraft, this should be an easy job for them. Luckily, being a mechanic is in high demand. However, certification and training are needed for those who want to work in this field.
Boilermakers
This is a challenging job as it requires skills in installing, maintaining, and assembling boilers, vats, and other receptacles for gasses and liquids. There will also be instances in which being away from loved ones is necessary since the scale of work can be a large project. This is one advantage of Vets since they are used to being deployed to various places.
Suggested reads:
- What Really are the Best Jobs for Veterans…and How Do You Get Them?
- 15 of the Top Work-From-Home Jobs for Veterans & Spouses
- 14 Certifications for Jobs To Help You Find a Career After Military Service
