CAREER PATH EXPLORATION FOR IRR SOLDIERS

The “Skilled Trades” Pathway

These are the cornerstone careers that build and maintain America. They are always in demand and can’t be outsourced or automated. These are high-value niche careers. The Army Reserve will pay you to get MOS qualified, and then you can use Credentialing Assistance funding via Army IgnitED to pay for the civilian certifications that lead to a professional license.

Become a Heavy Equipment Operator (12N):

• The Opportunity: Get paid to learn how to operate bulldozers, excavators, and graders. With 137 vacancies in MN/WI, this is our most in-demand field.
• The Payoff: Civilian operators earn a median salary of $58,070/year, with experienced operators earning significantly more in a stable, hands-on construction career. (Source: BLS)

Become a Diesel Mechanic (91B):

• The Opportunity: Master the mechanics of commercial trucks and heavy equipment. We have 98 open slots for this training right now.
• The Payoff: The entire American supply chain runs on diesel. With a median salary of $58,050/year, this is a critical, recession-resistant trade with endless job security. (Source: BLS)

Become a Commercial Driver (88M):

• The Opportunity: Let the Army Reserve train you and help you get your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). With 95 vacancies available, the path is wide open.
• The Payoff: Heavy truck drivers are the lifeblood of the economy, earning a median salary of $53,830/year in a field with nearly 177,800 openings projected annually. (Source: BLS)

Become a Licensed Plumber (12K) or Electrician (12R):

• The Opportunity: Receive comprehensive training in a licensed trade that is always in demand.
• The Payoff: With median salaries over $61,000/year and strong job growth, these are careers with high stability and the potential to own your own business. (Source: BLS)

The “MED City” Pathway (Rochester Area Focus)

If you are in the Rochester area or are looking for employment in the region, this is your direct path in. There are always medical job opportunities in MED City. Re-classing into a medical field may be your ticket there. There is a Medical Support Unit right here in Rochester where you would drill and use the opportunity to network with dozens of medical professionals.

Become a Radiologic Technologist (68P):

• The Opportunity: Learn to operate X-ray, CT, and other advanced imaging equipment.
• The Payoff: This is a highly technical and respected field with a median salary of $77,660/year and faster-than-average job growth. It’s a professional medical career with significant advancement opportunities. (Source: BLS)

Become a Surgical Technologist (68D):

• The Opportunity: Be a critical member of the surgical team inside the operating room, working alongside surgeons and nurses.
• The Payoff: This high-demand field has a projected job growth of 6% (much faster than average) and a median salary of $62,830/year. It’s an exciting, hands-on career at the center of patient care. (Source: BLS)