What Skills Do Mechanical and Technical Military Positions Provide?
One of the most effective training facilities in the world, the military teaches technical and mechanical skills to hundreds of thousands of veterans each year. More than simply vocational or skills-based training, the armed forces develop their personnel to become problem solvers adept at completing highly-technical work.
Combining real-world experience, hands-on education, and excellent leadership potential, service members often leave the military ready to bring a new perspective to any organization.
Military mechanics and technicians, for example, can (and often do) seamlessly transfer into civilian roles. Unfortunately, hiring managers might overlook these candidates if they do not understand how military skills can translate to their organization.
###Mechanical & Technical Training in the Military
Veterans who worked in mechanical and technical fields emerge from their service ready to take on a wide assortment of careers.
Enlisted military technicians graduate from the military’s electronics, mechanical and electro-mechanical vocational schools. Officers have attained a high level of academic achievement, either via the U.S. Service Academies (West Point, Annapolis, etc.) or through an ROTC program at an accredited university. Additionally, a large percentage of officers have degrees in engineering or engineering-related fields resulting in a valuable analytical and technical foundation.
The military places a strong emphasis on training individuals to maintain and repair complex machinery and equipment, including (but not limited to):
- Airplanes
- Boilers and furnaces
- Engines – gas and diesel
- Fuel systems
- Generators
- Heavy machinery
- Helicopters
- Laboratory equipment
- Medical equipment
- Submarines
- Tanks and trucks
- Weapon systems
###Military Mechanical & Technical Skills
Military mechanical and technical skills can be highly valuable and transferable to civilian jobs. Since veterans also hone valuable intangible traits, they are often prepared to move into supervisory roles quickly at their new organization.
####Veterans with mechanical & technical backgrounds exhibit these traits:
**Attention to Detail:** Military mechanics and technicians must pay close attention to detail to ensure that all maintenance and repair tasks are performed accurately and safely. Small errors or oversights can have significant consequences on the operation of the vessel and the safety of the crew.
**Adaptability and Resilience:** Military mechanics and technicians may encounter challenging working conditions, including cramped spaces, harsh weather, and time constraints. Veterans have learned to be adaptable, resilient, and to work well under pressure.
**Documentation:** Military mechanics and technicians maintain detailed records of maintenance and repairs performed on vehicles and equipment. Accurate documentation helps track maintenance history, identify recurring issues, and plan future maintenance schedules.
**Equipment Upgrades and Modifications:** Military mechanics and technicians participate in equipment upgrades or modifications to enhance the performance, capabilities, or protection of military vehicles, submarines, avionics systems, etc. They work closely with engineering teams to implement changes and ensure compatibility with existing systems.
**Problem-Solving:** Military mechanics and technicians often face complex and challenging mechanical issues, often under high-pressure situations. They are able to analyze problems, identify the root causes, and develop effective solutions in a timely manner.
**Preventive Maintenance Checks and Services (PMCS):** Military mechanics and technicians conduct scheduled PMCS to ensure vessels, vehicles, and other equipment are in optimal condition. They perform inspections and maintenance to prevent potential issues before they escalate.
**Safety and Compliance:** Military mechanics and technicians adhere to strict safety protocols and regulations to maintain a safe working environment. They follow standard operating procedures, use personal protective equipment, and handle hazardous materials safely.
**Teamwork and Communication:** Military mechanics and technicians work as part of a larger team, collaborating with other crew members, engineers, and officers. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for coordinating tasks, sharing information, and ensuring smooth operation and maintenance of the vessel.
**Technical Proficiency:** Military mechanics and technicians have a strong understanding of engines, electrical systems, hydraulics, and other related equipment. They possess the knowledge and skills necessary to troubleshoot and repair various machinery.
**Training and Mentorship:** Experienced military mechanics and technicians often provide training and mentorship to junior technicians, overseeing the work of less experienced personnel and providing guidance to ensure tasks are completed correctly and efficiently.
###Military Processes Focuses on Safety & Quality Assurance
Military technician skillsets extend beyond the technical to encompass responsibilities in asset management, audits, documentation, and inventory control - often for equipment worth millions of dollars.
Moreover, at the completion of a project, event, or process implementation, service members are responsible for engaging in an After-Action Review (AAR). The AAR process gathers the entire unit to review what went well, identify areas for improvement, and determine a plan to address them.
Onboarding staff with knowledge of various processes and the capacity to quickly adapt could greatly improve safety and efficiency for employers.
###Empty leadership, operations, or technical roles?
Is your organization losing productivity due to empty roles?
**We specialize in placing veterans who are transitioning into new careers within key industries, such as engineering, operations, logistics, automotive, aerospace/defense, and more.** Candidates come from both officer and enlisted ranks and possess the leadership and technical skills that are the most sought-after by our clients.
**See our one-pager to learn more about [RecruitMilitary’s Placement Services.](https://go.hirevets.com/Placement_Services_Talent)**
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