Credentials can be a critical part of a military-to-civilian transition, with skills earned in service translating to important industry-related certifications.
But a recent Army move will limit the number of credentials available through the service’s Credentialing Assistance program and the size of the overall benefit … and will eliminate officers from the program entirely.
The move, first reported by Military.com, drops the yearly benefit to $2,000 (down from $4,000) and allows soldiers to complete just one credentialing course per year and three per decade. It also means officers, to include warrant officers, will be ineligible for the program at some point in 2025, Military.com reported.
[CREDENTIALING SERVICES: DoD Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL)]
Army Secretary Christine Wormuth attributed the cuts to the program’s “catastrophic success,” with interest far outpacing the service’s budget. The program reportedly cost the service $70 million in 2024, up from $31 million in 2021.
How MOAA Can Help
Army officers nearing the end of their time in service may be looking for support beyond credentialing. And even those who are able to secure certifications as part of existing DoD programs may need help with other aspects of the transition process beyond what’s offered through official DoD outreach.
These servicemembers – along with veterans, military spouses, and survivors – can rely on MOAA to support their work toward success in the civilian sector. And an upcoming event series may serve as the perfect introduction to MOAA’s offerings.
Register today for Finding Your Dream Job, a series of three one-hour, interactive lunchtime sessions throughout the month of January. They will cover the core components of your transition toolkit:
- Seminar I – Networking (Jan. 8): Get tips on mastering the art and science of networking, including how to tackle the powerful informational interview.
- Seminar II – Résumé Writing (Jan. 15): Learn practical résumé-writing tips; find out how to write to influence others; and discover the best methods to showcase your skills, talent, and experience.
- Seminar III – Interviewing (Jan 22): Let MOAA show you how to tell your unique professional story and set yourself apart from other finalists.
Whether you’re worried about building your network, or concerned that your résumé isn’t up to par, or nervous about your first job interview in years or decades (or ever!), Finding Your Dream Job will set you on the right course for success.
Register here, and if you’re not able to attend a session live, register anyway – all registrants receive a link to each session to watch on demand.
Want more from MOAA? Learn about other career and transition resources at MOAA.org/Careers.
