Transitioning from the armed forces into civilian life is a big step. It’s normal to feel uncertain, but the truth is your military skills—discipline, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving—are in demand across many sectors. Employers across the UK are actively seeking veterans because of the value they bring to their organisations. Knowing which industries align with your strengths is the key to unlocking rewarding ex-military employment.
Below are five high-demand industries where veterans excel, and how Portland Training can support you with the courses and qualifications needed to make a successful transition.
Cyber Security
In the armed forces, protecting sensitive information and following strict security protocols is second nature. Cybersecurity roles in civilian life—such as Security Analyst, IT Security Administrator, or Threat Analyst—rely on these exact skills. By completing industry-recognised certifications such as CompTIA Security+, available through Portland Training, you can turn your military background into a career that’s both in demand and well-paid. Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing areas for ex-military employment, with opportunities ranging from government contracts to private sector companies.
Cloud Engineering
Veterans who have worked with complex systems and operations already have transferable skills that suit cloud engineering. Cloud Engineers build and maintain secure digital infrastructure for businesses and organisations. With Portland Training’s cloud-focused IT courses, you’ll gain the practical skills and recognised qualifications to enter this high-demand field. Cloud technology underpins nearly every modern business, making it a top choice for stable, future-proof ex-military employment.
IT Support and Networking
During your service, you may have been responsible for troubleshooting communication systems, solving technical problems under pressure, or keeping vital networks operational. These experiences are highly relevant in IT support and networking roles. With IT certifications from Portland Training, you can translate your military experience into a civilian qualification that employers trust. IT support and networking careers are an excellent route into ex-military employment, with opportunities to progress into more specialised or senior roles over time.
Construction and Logistics
For veterans who prefer structured, hands-on work, construction and logistics provide excellent career opportunities. Your military background in leadership, planning, and teamwork fits naturally into roles such as site supervisor, or logistics coordinator. Portland Training delivers practical training in areas such as forklift operation and construction skills, helping you meet industry standards. These qualifications are highly respected by employers and open doors to rewarding ex-military employment across the UK’s construction and logistics sectors.
Project Management
In the military, you’ve already planned and executed complex operations, often under pressure and with strict deadlines. This makes you a natural fit for project management in civilian life. Whether in IT, construction, or logistics, your ability to lead teams and deliver results is invaluable. With additional project management qualifications from Portland Training, you can strengthen your profile and pursue higher-level roles. Project management is one of the most respected and versatile areas of ex-military employment, offering long-term career growth.
How Portland Training Supports Ex-Military Employment
Transitioning into civilian life doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Portland Training, we specialise in supporting UK service leavers through funded training programmes. From IT and cybersecurity to cloud engineering, construction, and logistics, our courses are designed to provide you with the qualifications employers are looking for.
By choosing the right training, you can transform your military skills into a civilian career that values your leadership, discipline, and teamwork. With funded options available for service leavers, Portland Training makes it easier to step confidently into the next chapter of your career and secure meaningful ex-military employment.
If you’re ready to take the next step, explore our courses and see how we can help you transition successfully into civilian life.
