Transitioning from military service or an ROTC program into the civilian workforce is a significant shift, filled with challenges as well as vibrant opportunities. Marine Corps veteran and Quinnipiac University graduate Nick DeLeonardo, now a Truck Rental Assistant Branch Manager at Enterprise, shares his insights on making a successful transition while leveraging military experience and excelling in civilian careers.
Translating Military Skills to Civilian Jobs: Bridging the Gap
After transitioning to a civilian life, one of the biggest hurdles veterans face is the lack of clear guidance.
[you go from] “knowing every day what your mission or objective is, with orders passed down from the highest levels, to being in control of your own day-to-day.”
Nick DeLeonardo
Days without routine may seem a bit aimless, and it can be a rough transition. The solution? Early establishment of structure and direction. Whether through continued education, mentorship, or setting clear career goals, creating a plan can make the transition steadier.
Similarly, many veterans transition into careers in law enforcement or firefighting due to the familiar structure and culture. Yet, regardless of Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), veterans should frame their experience in a way that aligns with their desired career. For example, if a veteran managed a squad of troops in a supply warehouse, they should highlight how they coordinated logistics, implemented efficiency strategies, and ensured smooth operations. DeLeonardo emphasizes that even though the mission may change, “the path to accomplish it can be done using the tools and skills veterans gain while serving.” Those transitioning to a civilian life should still embody principles and values from time served in the military, as it will translate into any career.
It may be difficult to translate these military skills into a relatable experience to civilian employers, but DeLeonardo recommends using the reliable STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). He struggled attempting to relate his experience as an infantryman to civilian careers but found ease by taking the specific job and “breaking it down into the simplest form.” For example, rather than listing military-specific duties, veterans should emphasize leadership, problem-solving, and logistical coordination. Leadership experience is one major advantage veterans bring to the table since they are placed in fast-paced environments requiring quick decision-making. Every ROTC graduate and veteran has encountered both exceptional and ineffective leadership, and this real-world experience, combined with military leadership training, is incredibly valuable in any career field. In addition to traits like punctuality, integrity, initiative, and unselfishness, there are countless of key leadership principles in the military — and they translate directly to success in the civilian workplace. The key is to highlight these experiences in job interviews and applications.
Every job application should be tailored. DeLeonardo emphasizes adapting resumes for different industries, sharing how he adjusted his for careers in law enforcement, Amazon, and Enterprise — each highlighting his military experience differently. Veterans should be honest about their background while keeping responses relevant to the role. Employers value adaptability, initiative, timeliness, and resilience, traits often honed through boot camp, deployments, and shifting mission plans. Highlighting these experiences shows how veterans excel under pressure and become invaluable assets to any company.
Adjusting to Civilian Workplace Culture
For many veterans, transitioning to a civilian workplace is a culture shock. DeLeonardo’s advice? “Have humility and be very humble. Understand that your service, while valuable, does not automatically make you entitled or an expert in each field.” He also urges those transitioning to take advantage of the various resources available to active and past duty members of the military — mentorship programs, career centers, and on- and off-campus veteran services (like VFW and VA). Connecting with fellow veterans in the workforce can also provide valuable insights and support. Networking is essential in the civilian workforce. DeLeonardo encourages veterans to get involved in campus clubs and organizations, particularly veteran groups. “Build professional relationships with your professors who you can use as references when searching for jobs post-grad,” he advises. Being active in student organizations also allows veterans to connect with peers who bring different perspectives and experiences to the table.
Don’t be discouraged if there seems to be a lot of struggle in the transition to a civilian work life. Discipline is ingrained in military training and maintaining that mindset post-service is crucial.
“A Drill Instructor once told us, ‘You are here for 90 days. I cannot change 18 years of habits in that time; it is on you to sustain the discipline you are taught here.’ That has stuck with me to this day,”
Nick DeLeonardo
Being open to learning, asking questions, and embracing new ways of working will help veterans integrate into their new roles successfully.
Turning Military Experience Into an Advantage
The military exposes service members to unique situations and teaches valuable skills that many civilians don’t develop. “The stresses we face in the military don’t compare to the stresses of civilian life,” DeLeonardo points out. Perspective, discipline, and resilience set veterans apart in the job market.
Military experience has propelled countless veterans into successful careers. Some notable examples include:
– Jack Taylor (Founder of Enterprise Rent-A-Car) – A WWII Navy fighter pilot who built a $30+ billion company.
– Frederick Smith (Founder of FedEx) – A Marine Corps veteran who revolutionized global logistics.
– Thomas Monaghan (Founder of Domino’s Pizza) – A Marine who turned a small pizza shop into a global brand.
One final piece of advice? “The biggest mindset shift necessary is understanding that the civilian world is not the military. While discipline and attention to detail matter, not everything operates under strict military standards. Learn to adapt, be humble, and apply what you’ve learned in a way that benefits your new career.”
