Service → Civilian Transition

Leaving the military is a big step — whether you served four years or twenty. The transition back to civilian life brings new opportunities but also new challenges. The good news is there are programs, both official and nonprofit, designed to walk with you every step of the way, from job training to mentorship to building your next career.

🏛 Official DoD & VA Programs

1. Department of Defense Transition Assistance Program (TAP)
   The DoD's official program to help service members and families prepare for civilian life through workshops, counseling, and resources.
2. VA Transition and Employment Services
   A VA hub connecting transitioning service members and veterans with employment, education, and health resources.
3. Troops to Teachers (DoD)
   Helps service members and veterans become teachers in public schools across the U.S.
4. Army Career Skills Program (CSP)
   Lets soldiers train with civilian employers before they separate or retire.
5. Army Soldier for Life (SFL)
   Army program supporting transition, employment, and veteran community connection.
6. Marine Corps Transition Readiness Program (TRP)
   Marine Corps' branch-specific TAP, focused on counseling, workshops, and career planning.
7. Navy Transition Assistance Program (TAP)
   Navy's TAP site, tailored for sailors and their families.
8. Air Force Transition Assistance Program (AF TAP)
   Air Force/Space Force version of TAP with additional branch-specific resources.
9. Coast Guard Transition Assistance Program
   Transition guidance for Coast Guard members and families.

🤝 Civilian & Nonprofit Support Programs

1. Hire Heroes USA
   Free career coaching, resume building, and job placement support for veterans and spouses.
2. Onward to Opportunity (O2O – Syracuse University IVMF)
   Offers free career training, professional certifications, and job placement assistance.
3. American Corporate Partners (ACP Mentorship Program)
   Pairs veterans and spouses with corporate mentors to guide their career transition.
4. Team Rubicon
   Unites military veterans and first responders to serve communities hit by disasters. By putting veterans' skills to work in humanitarian missions, it provides a renewed sense of purpose, teamwork, and leadership after military service.
5. FourBlock
   A nationwide nonprofit career readiness program helping veterans and transitioning service members build professional networks and land meaningful careers.
6. Hire Our Heroes (Hiring Our Heroes Initiative)
   National program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation connecting veterans, transitioning service members, and spouses with employers.
7. Operation New Uniform (ONU)
   Provides career readiness training and transition support for veterans, especially those seeking business careers.