I retire from the US Navy in August of 2024. I am also in the middle of my final deployment. When I left for deployment I told myself that I would “learn to code and get a job.” I’ve been learning to code without the internet for the past 5 months and I really enjoy it. It is challenging with all of the different obstacles out here, but it’s extremely rewarding. I’ve already written a blog on how to learn to code without the internet and now I’m going to dive into how I’m implementing the second half of the plan “get a job”.
I’m going to be covering quite a few topics over the next few articles that focus on what I’ve figured out so far, such as:
What benefits are at my disposal that can aid me in transitioning into a job that I will not only enjoy but be well compensated for?
How to create a reasonable timeline.
How to fill that timeline as efficiently as possible to ensure a smooth transition?
How do I weave my military transition requirements into my timeline?
What can be done now to help ourselves get hired when we are ready?
Let’s talk about two of the benefits that are open to veterans that can help transition into the world of tech.
First off Skillbridge: the Skillbridge program is great because you can attend a coding bootcamp or apprenticeship with the last 6 months left on your contract. You will be getting paid from the military, but you will be “working” for someone else. The Skillbridge NAVADMIN 160/22 will give you the details, but I will sum it up in order of when it needs to be completed. However, here is a nice checklist that will assist you and also provides some good information.
DoD Skillbridge Package Checklist.pdf (navy.mil)
Second would be Vet tech. Vet tech is a limited funded option for veterans that either aren’t on active duty or are within 180 days from separation. To be eligible you must:
Qualify for VA education assistance under the GI Bill and,
Have at least one day of unexpired GI bill entitlement, and
Are accepted into a program by a VA-approved training provider
You can get tuition for a full-time high-tech training program as well as money for housing (for non-active duty)
https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/fgib/vettec.asp
I will cover a few more in the next article. However, if you are interested in attending a coding bootcamp here is a list of camps that take vet tech benefits.
https://bootcamprankings.com/best-coding-bootcamps-for-veterans/
Here is also the skillbridge website that you can use to find out if any of the bootcamps you are interested in are available for the skillbridge program: