What Should I Include on My Resume?

When transitioning from military service to the civilian workforce, your resume is your first impression. It should effectively showcase your experience, skills, and qualifications in a way that civilian employers can easily understand. Crafting a strong resume helps translate your military background into terms that resonate with hiring managers, increasing your chances of landing interviews.

Key Sections of a Veteran’s Resume

Contact Information

Example of a resume's contact information highlighting the clearly stated address, email address, and phone number.

Having clear and professional contact information on your resume is crucial because it allows potential employers to easily reach you. A missing or incorrect phone number or email could mean lost job opportunities. Ensure your details are up to date and formatted correctly to make a strong first impression.

Include:

• 
  Full name
• 
  Phone number
• 
  Professional email address (avoid military or personal addresses like "airforceguy92@email.com")
• 
  City and state (optional)

Example:

William Smith
126 E Morris Road,
Marksfield, IN 46202
will.smith.92@gmail.com
398-938-2201

Professional Summary

Example of a resume's professional summary created by VetResumes.com's MOS/AFSC Converter.

This is a short, impactful paragraph at the top of your resume summarizing your experience, skills, and career goals. It should be clear, direct, and focused on how your military experience applies to the civilian job market. A well-crafted summary helps recruiters quickly understand your qualifications and why you're a strong candidate, setting the stage for the rest of your resume.

Example:

"As a Propulsion Systems Specialist, I have four years of experience maintaining and repairing propulsion systems on C-130 aircraft. Skilled in troubleshooting complex mechanical and electrical issues, ensuring optimal performance and safety. Adept at working in high-pressure environments, collaborating with teams, and mentoring junior technicians."

Work Experience

Example of a typical resume's professional experience section highlighting various tasks in verb-based format.

Your experience section should translate your military job duties into clear, action-oriented statements that civilian employers understand. Here’s how:

• 
  Use verb-based bullet points (Start each bullet with a strong action verb)
• 
  Quantify when possible (e.g., "Maintained 10+ aircraft, reducing downtime by 30%")
• 
  Highlight transferable skills (leadership, teamwork, problem-solving)

Example:

Propulsion Systems Specialist (2A651H)
United States Air Force (2020 - 2024)

• 
  Conducted detailed inspections and preventative maintenance on C-130 propeller systems to ensure aircraft readiness.
• 
  Diagnosed and repaired mechanical and electrical issues, reducing aircraft downtime by 30%.
• 
  Led and mentored a team of junior airmen, increasing overall team efficiency by 25%.
• 
  Maintained accurate logistics records, ensuring proper inventory of parts and supplies.
• 
  Collaborated with logistics teams to expedite parts and minimize maintenance delays.

Certifications & Training

Example of a veteran resume's certification & training section showcasing the various technical abilities of the candidate.

Many military certifications directly translate to civilian jobs. List any relevant certifications, training courses, or licenses.

Example:

• 
  Certified in C-130 Propulsion Systems Maintenance
• 
  Completed Air Force Basic Aircraft Maintenance Course
• 
  Certified in Safety and Hazardous Materials Handling
• 
  Trained in Advanced Propulsion Systems Diagnostics

Software & Skills

Example of a resume's software and skills section.

Many employers look for familiarity with certain tools, software, or technical skills. List skills relevant to your target industry.

Example:

• 
  Google Docs, Slides, and Sheets
• 
  Technical schematics and troubleshooting manuals
• 
  Inventory management systems
• 
  OSHA safety compliance

Education

Include your highest level of education. If you completed specialized military training, you may also list it here.

Example:

High School Diploma
XYZ High School | Graduated 2018

Conclusion

A well-structured resume helps veterans make a smooth transition into civilian employment. By clearly highlighting relevant experience, skills, and certifications, you improve your chances of securing interviews and finding the right career path after service.

If you want to save time and ensure your resume is optimized for civilian employers, VetResumes.com can build a resume for you in minutes. Our AI-powered tool translates your military experience into a professional, civilian-ready format, helping you get one step closer to landing your next job.