Credentialing Programs in the Military: Certifications and Career Growth
One of the biggest concerns for parents of service members is usually their child's long-term career prospects. I should know, I had the same concern for years. The fear of my daughter leaving the military without a clear career path or transferable skills often kept me up at night. Thankfully, I came across information about credentialing programs in the military and that changed everything for me.
In this article, I will share with you all you need to know about credentialing programs and how they can help your service member gain valuable certifications that enhance both their military and civilian career prospects.
What Are Military Credentialing Programs?
Military credentialing programs are programs designed to help service members obtain professional certifications and licenses that are recognized both within and outside the military. These certifications help hone your service member’s skills in a given field and validate their expertise and experience, giving them a competitive edge in both military and civilian job markets.
Some of these key credentialing programs include:
Credentialing opportunities online (COOL) - One of the most common credentialing programs available for all branches of the military, this program helps service members find civilian certifications relevant to their military occupations.
DOD SkillBridge - This credentialing program is designed specifically to help service members make a smooth transition from military service to civilian careers, this credentialing program provides hands-on training, apprenticeship, and internships from approved industry partners.
Military Apprenticeship Programs (USMAP) - This credentialing program is designed to help active duty service members earn civilian-recognized journeyman certificates and on-the-job experience during their service.
Popular Certifications for Service Members
The various military credentialing programs offer numerous certifications to choose from. From my research, here are some of the most popular ones.
Information technology or IT, under which we have CompTIA security+ and Cisco certified network associate (CCNA).
Under healthcare, there’s the emergency medical technician (EMT) and the certified nursing assistant (CNA).
For logistics and transportation service members, there are the commercial driver's license (CDL) and supply chain management certifications.
Engineering and mechanics have the automotive service excellence (ASE) and the OSHA safety certifications.
How to Apply for a Military Credentialing Program?
Applying for a military credentialing program depends on the specific program your service member is interested in. Typically though, your service member would want to first contact their Education Service Officer or Career Consultant before applying for any of these programs. Doing this would help ensure they properly weigh their options and make a more informed decision.
Encourage your service member to research the available credentialing programs, assess their career goals, and determine which certifications align best with their military role and future aspirations before making a decision.
Conclusion
The credentialing programs are wonderful resources that service members can utilize, helping them build a career that would serve them well in their military growth and when they transition to civilian life. Encourage your service member to take advantage of these programs and you will have successfully set them on their road to career growth, both within and outside the military.
Useful Resources
Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) – Official DoD page for the COOL for all branches of the military.
United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP) – Offers apprenticeship programs to help service members earn journeyman certificates while serving.
DoD SkillBridge – Connects transitioning service members with civilian job training programs.
