Many veterans naturally migrate to an industry and sector based solely upon the technical skills they honed through their military service. However, post-military careers encompass a dizzying array of options where you can leverage a broad range of your “soft” skills derived from your vast experience. Think about all the times you have had to reinvent yourself for that next assignment. Sure, it may have taken a few months, but you always went from being the new kid to becoming the go-to person. And you flourished in your new role, often with little or no training.

Before you jump back into your comfort zone, have you considered a nontraditional career field? This could be an exciting chance to follow your passion and excel yet again while being compensated for what you enjoy doing. Here are three great reasons to consider a nontraditional career option:

1. Leveraging your skills to achieve career satisfaction: Throughout your military career you cultivated a myriad of transferable skills such as organizational abilities, adaptability, and resiliency. These traits can now be channeled to help you succeed in any profession!
2. New ways of thinking and interacting: Decision-making and communication skills you honed over the years might come in handy as you encounter a new set of challenges. You'll learn that you have the requisite skills to find viable solutions to any problem.
   
   
3. Unique opportunities for career advancement: It can be easy to get lost in the shuffle. Taking the path less travelled may create a favorable set of circumstances to separate yourself from the crowd.

If you are exploring your options or thinking about a career change, join MOAA on Wednesday, July 18, 2018, at 2:00 p.m. EDT for a closer look at opportunities in employment, education, and entrepreneurship that are available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Complimentary for service members and veterans of all ranks along with military spouses. Register here: https://cc.callinfo.com/r/1g0313ban7jkw&eom.