Employment Assistance and Credentialing Programs

Army and Navy COOL: The Army and Navy both offer Credentialing Opportunities Online (COOL). These programs give you the opportunity to find civilian credentials related to your rating, or military occupational specialty. You can learn what it takes to get the credentials and learn about programs that will help pay credentialing fees. Check out the Army COOL website at : https://www.cool.army.mil/ or Navy COOL website at: https://www.cool.navy.mil/ to learn more.

Air Force Credentialing and Educational Research Tool (CERT):  CERT at www.au.af.mil/au/ccaf/certifications.asp is a valuable resource for Air Force personnel in increasing awareness of professional development opportunities applicable to USAF occupational specialties, crosswalks to CCAF degree programs, national professional certifications, certification agencies, and more.
United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP): USMAP is available to members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Those who participate in this program are eligible to receive a DOL Certificate of Completion, which provides an advantage in getting civilian jobs.
VA Vocational Rehabilitation Program for Disabled Veterans (VR &E):  VR&E is a program whose primary function is to help veterans with service-connected disabilities become suitably employed, maintain employment, or achieve independence in daily living.
The program offers a number of services to help each eligible disabled veteran reach his or her rehabilitation goals. These services include vocational and personal counseling, education and training, financial aid, job assistance, and, if needed, medical and dental treatment.
Services generally last up to 48 months, but they can be extended in certain instances.
If you need training, the VA will pay your training costs, such as tuition and fees, books, supplies, equipment, and, if needed, special services. While you are in training, VA will also pay you a monthly benefit to help with living expenses, called a subsistence allowance.
Helmets to Hardhats: The Helmets to Hardhats (H2H)program lets your military service speak for itself. The program will help you find career opportunities that match your military background. Congressionally funded, H2H is the fastest, easiest way for transitioning military, Reservists, and Guardsmen to find a rewarding career in the construction industry. Visit: http://helmetstohardhats.org/ to learn more.
Library Resources
Your local public and military libraries can be an excellent source of job search information. Most information of interest to job seekers is located in the reference section. Most public and military libraries offer access to the Internet. Helpful library resources include the following:
Libraries also offer newspapers, trade journals, magazines, audio and video cassettes, and computer software packages that aid in career identification and planning. You may also find information on state training, employment, and apprenticeship programs as well as statistics regarding employment availability, economic climate, and cost of living. Your librarian can show you where to find these resources and how to use them. 
Date Last Reviewed: September 29, 2011

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