Earlier today, I stumbled across some reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics about joining the military after high school. Anybody got more detailed info or a better understanding of these stats? I'm considering enlisting straight outta high school, and want to know more about what I'm getting into.
Firstly, good on you for seeking more information pre-enlistment. I'll try to provide some insight for you based on publicly available data.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics certainly provides good information, but the details you'll need will depend on your personal questions and concerns. Some of the things that might interest you could relate to, for instance, unemployment rates, salaries, or the progression of jobs within the military itself.
In general, unemployment rates for military veterans tend to be lower than average, a fact that might give you some confidence. However, bear in mind that such general stats often hide disparities; for example, younger veterans often have higher rates of unemployment than older ones.
For salaries, military pay is quite complex as it includes base pay, bonuses, and benefits. But typically, enlisted personnel start low and see steady increases over time. The BLS reports an average annual wage of $53,160 for enlisted military occupations in 2020.
As for career progression, enlisted personnel can and do move up through the ranks, and advanced education or specializations can catalyze this. They can also transition from active duty to civilian occupations that leverage their skills or experience gained in the military—again, specific experiences will vary.
No set of stats can paint a full picture, though. You might want to talk directly with veterans or current members of the branch you're looking to join to get a first-hand account of their experiences. The military can provide some fantastic opportunities for education, training, and leadership, but it's also a big step and commitment.
Remember, becoming an enlisted service member is a tremendous commitment, so it's important you have a clear understanding and are fully prepared prior to such a decision.
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