Military Spouse Career Hub
Your professional life shouldn't have to take a backseat to the military. This definitive toolkit is designed to help you build a portable, resilient career that grows with every move. Moving soon? Use our Base Guide to research your new location's job market.
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Empowering Military Families
FamilyMedia.com is committed to providing best-in-class resources for the military community. This hub is a free tool designed to empower military spouses in their professional journeys.
Visit FamilyMedia.comCareer Exploration & Portable Fields
Discover in-demand fields that offer the flexibility and remote opportunities perfect for the military lifestyle. We've expanded beyond the top 5 to give you a broader view of what's possible.
Top Portable Career Sectors
Pro-Tip: Next Steps
Found a field you love? See how the MyCAA scholarship in our Education Hub can help you get the credentials you need.
Navigating State License Transfers
For spouses in licensed professions like nursing or teaching, moving is a huge challenge. But you have resources!
Don't Let a Move Derail Your Career
Many states have enacted laws to help military spouses get licensed faster after a move. The DoD can also help with the cost.
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Interstate License Recognition: The Department of Labor has a map to check your new state's rules.
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Licensure Reimbursement: The DoD may reimburse spouses up to $1,000 for relicensing and recertification costs after a PCS. Learn how to apply through your service branch.
The Education Hub: MyCAA & Beyond
Education is power. Use these resources to get the certifications and degrees you need to build a portable career, often with little to no cost.
Deep Dive: MyCAA Scholarship
The My Career Advancement Account (MyCAA) is a game-changer, offering up to $4,000 for portable career training. Let's break it down.
Eligibility Checklist
- Spouses of active-duty members in pay grades E-1 to E-6, W-1 to W-2, and O-1 to O-3.
- Spouses of activated Guard and Reserve members in the same pay grades.
- You must complete your program while your spouse is on Title 10 orders.
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- DEERS Check: Confirm your eligibility in the DEERS system.
- Create a MyCAA Account: Visit the official MyCAA Portal.
- Explore Careers & Schools: Use their tools to find an approved program.
- Develop Your Plan: Work with a SECO career coach to create an Education and Training Plan.
- Request Financial Assistance: Once your plan is approved, MyCAA pays the school directly!
MyCAA Frequently Asked Questions
The Job Search & Resume Toolkit
Translate your unique military life experience into a powerful resume and connect with employers who value your skills.
Resume Power-Up: Translate Your Life
Your military life is packed with valuable skills. Here’s how to frame that experience in a way that resonates with hiring managers.
What you might say:
"Managed household during spouse's deployment."
What a recruiter sees:
Independently managed all household operations, including budget planning, complex scheduling, and crisis management for a family of four during a 9-month high-stress period.
What you might say:
"Volunteered for the FRG."
What a recruiter sees:
Community Engagement Lead: Coordinated and executed 5 morale-boosting events for over 100 families, managing a $2,000 budget and leading a team of 10 volunteers.
What you might say:
"Handled a cross-country PCS move."
What a recruiter sees:
Logistics & Relocation Manager: Successfully planned and executed a complex, multi-stage 3,000-mile household relocation, coordinating with multiple vendors and ensuring all deadlines and budgetary goals were met.
Key Takeaway: Value Your Volunteer Work
Don't discount unpaid experience. On your resume, frame volunteer roles just like paid jobs, focusing on quantifiable achievements (e.g., "managed a $2,000 budget," "led a team of 10 volunteers," "increased event attendance by 25%").
A Proud Supporter of Military Families
What you're made of, we're made for.®
For over 100 years, USAA has been committed to serving the financial needs of the military community. From insurance to investments, we proudly support military families on their path to financial security.
Explore USAASalary & Relocation Calculator
Is that job offer in a new city a good deal? Use this tool to compare your current salary to a new offer, adjusted for the cost of living difference.
Spouse Spotlight
— Sarah B., Military Spouse & Logistics Coordinator"Using the resume tips here, I translated my experience managing three PCS moves into a logistics coordinator role. I highlighted my budget management and vendor coordination skills, and my new employer was incredibly impressed. This hub gave me the confidence to see my life experience as a professional asset."
The Entrepreneurship Zone
Starting your own business is the ultimate portable career. Whether you're a freelancer, Etsy shop owner, or consultant, these resources are for you.
The SBA offers tailored resources, training, and guides for military spouse entrepreneurs.
V-WISE ProgramAn intensive training program for female veterans and spouses.
U.S. Veterans MagazineResources and highlights of successful veteran and spouse-owned businesses.
Hiring Our HeroesProvides resources and workshops for military spouse entrepreneurs.
Networking & Mentorship
Your network is your most valuable career asset, especially when you move often. Tap into the military community and beyond.
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LinkedIn: Beyond getting the free premium subscription, actively use it! Join groups like the "Military Spouse Professional Network" and connect with people at companies that interest you.
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American Corporate Partners (ACP): Connects post-9/11 veterans and active duty spouses with corporate professionals for year-long, customized mentorships. It's a free and invaluable program.