19 July 2025 Weekly Rundown: Combat Boots to Coding- Finding Your Path After Service

Veterans and military community members have access to over 40,000 free resources and opportunities, but most don't realize what's available. Act Now Education, a volunteer-run military support organization, connects service members, veterans, and military families with these resources to support career transitions and professional development.• Career Compass platform provides AI resume building, job tracking, and LinkedIn optimization at no cost to military community members• Service to Success cohort helps military members get unstuck in their career journeys with a 7-week program culminating in a hiring fair• Using AI tools like ChatGPT and Notebook LM can help translate military experience to civilian job requirements• Organizations like PerScholas, Empower, and VetsinTech offer free certification programs including CompTIA, AWS, and PMP• Educational resources include free CLEP exam funding for military dependents through Modern Middle States• Mill Mentor platform connects military community with approximately 1,200 mentors across various industries• Experience often trumps certifications in tech careers – consider starting with entry-level positions to build hands-on skills• Career transition resources include free interview prep through Canterful for practicing before real interviews• Entrepreneurial programs like Dog Tag, Bunker Labs, and various SBA initiatives support veteran business ownersTo access Career Compass: Visit ActNow Education website, click Career Compass, enter the weekly code, and complete application.