Opportunities & Next Steps

You Don’t Need to Start Over. Many veterans assume they need to begin at entry-level roles.

In reality, you often already have:

• Leadership experience

• Operational responsibility

• Decision-making under pressure

The goal is to position yourself appropriately, not start from scratch.

Focus on the Right Opportunities

Not all opportunities will move you forward.

Prioritize roles that:

• Value leadership and accountability

• Involve coordination, operations, or problem-solving

• Offer growth, not just basic tasks

Opportunities are not just about gaining experience. They are a chance to:

• Practice using civilian language

• Build confidence in a new environment

• Add clear, relatable examples to your resume

What to Look for in an Opportunity

Before you apply, take a moment to evaluate:

• Does this role align with my skills and experience?

• Will this help me move toward my long-term goals?

• Will I gain experience I can clearly explain to future employers?

Green Flags

• Clear responsibilities and expectations

• Opportunities to learn and grow

• Supportive supervision or training

• Roles that value leadership or initiative

Be Thoughtful About

• Roles that don’t use your existing skills

• Positions with unclear expectations

• Opportunities that don’t move you toward your goals

Networking is one of the most effective ways to find opportunities and move into civilian careers. Many roles are filled through conversations and connections, not just online applications.

What Networking Actually Means

Networking is not about asking for a job.

It’s about:

• Learning about different roles and industries

• Understanding how your experience fits

• Building relationships over time

Why It Matters for Veterans

Your experience is strong, but employers may not fully understand it at first.

Networking gives you the opportunity to:

• Explain your background in your own words

• Practice translating your experience

• Build confidence in civilian conversations

Simple Ways to Start

• Talk to employers at hiring events or Workforce Wednesdays

• Connect with classmates, instructors, and staff

• Reach out to people on LinkedIn in roles you’re interested in

• Ask for short informational conversations

What to Say (Keep It Simple)

“I’m transitioning from the military and exploring opportunities in [field]. I’d like to learn more about your experience and any advice you have.”

• Focus on Learning, Not Asking

• Ask how they got started

• Ask what skills matter most in their role

• Ask what they wish they knew earlier

• Follow Up

• Send a short thank you message

• Stay connected

• Keep the relationship going

Once you’re in a role, be intentional about how you use the experience:

• Pay attention to how work is described in civilian terms

• Practice explaining what you do clearly

• Track your accomplishments and results

• Turn Experience Into Resume Content

• Keep a running list of accomplishments

After any role, ask:

• What did I do?

• What skills did I use?

• What was the impact?

Start Here at Pima

Take action with resources already available to you:

• Explore opportunities in MyCareerLink

• Attend Workforce and hiring events

• Connect with an Advisor

Programs That Can Accelerate Your Path:

• PimaFastTrack

• Skills to Career programs

• STRIVE (entrepreneurship)

• Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)