It’s always important to know what you’re going to do when you get out of the military. Transitioning into civilian life is easier if you have a job waiting for you, so a solid plan is a must. Below are four diverse career paths that are perfect for military veterans.

Private Security

Private security companies are always looking for military veterans to bolster their numbers. These companies understand the importance of training and discipline and they tend to be fairly consistent with their willingness to work with veterans as they transition back to the civilian world. This can be a great way for a veteran to keep using skills that he or she learned in the military while still sticking around closer to home.

Teaching

Teaching and the military go together better than you might imagine. If you’re willing to get a degree from one of the many online colleges for military service members, you can move forward with teacher training. This will not only allow you a chance to make a difference in the lives of kids, but it will also give you access to an incredibly stable career field. If you want to share what you’ve learned with others, teaching might be the perfect choice for you.

Management

If you’ve been in any kind of leadership role in the military, you might be a great fit for the same kind of role in the civilian world. Leadership potential is something that is incredibly valuable in the world of business and those who already possess it are great fits for managerial roles. Not only can you use some of the practical skills you gained in the service while in the business world, but you can also be sure that your resume will stand out compared to your competition.

Public Service

If you feel the call to service, public service positions might be for you. From working in a city government to running for office, those in the military are fairly well-represented in the public sector. You may even be able to secure a higher pay scale if you move into federal employment, which can make it easier to deal with some of the new financial burdens that might come with civilian life.

There are plenty of great opportunities out there for veterans. Take some time to look at your strengths and your skills and then figure out what they mean in the civilian world. With some research and the willingness to work, you’ll be able to find a great new career.