Find a useful next step.

01 / High school juniors and seniors

Start with three possible paths, not one perfect answer.

You can compare work, training, and college options without deciding your whole future today.

1. Write down three things you like doing and three things you want to learn. Ask a counselor, teacher, or trusted adult which careers use them.
2. Choose two or three routes to compare. For each, note the time, cost, entry requirements, support available, and what you could do next year.
3. Try one small test: a conversation with someone in the field, a campus or training visit, a class project, or an entry-level application.

If you are under 18, involve a trusted adult before sharing personal information or accepting an offer.

02 / Career changers

Make the next move from skills you already have.

A change is easier to evaluate when you compare real roles and the gaps between your experience and their requirements.

1. Pick two target roles and read several current postings from the employers themselves. Note the skills that repeat.
2. List the work you have already done that shows those skills, including projects, caregiving, volunteer work, and paid work where relevant.
3. Test the gap with one focused course, project, conversation, or application before committing to a costly program.

Keep a simple record of what you learned so you can change direction without starting over.

03 / Returning and second-chance workers

Build a current story around what you can do now.

A break or barrier does not erase your skills. Focus on a realistic next role and a way to show readiness.

1. Identify roles that fit your present schedule, location, skills, and support needs. Check the employer's current posting and application route.
2. Prepare a short explanation of your experience and what you have done recently to get ready. Practice it with a counselor or someone you trust.
3. Ask a local workforce center, library, or community program about training, resume help, and employers that offer appropriate support.

Share sensitive history only when a legitimate application process requires it; seek local guidance for questions about records or eligibility.

04 / Veterans and military families

Translate experience into the work you want next.

Civilian employers may use different names for the leadership, technical, and operational work you have done.

1. Choose a few civilian roles and compare their requirements with your service experience and any credentials you hold.
2. Rewrite a few achievements in plain terms: what you managed, improved, taught, maintained, or delivered, with results you can support.
3. Use a veteran employment counselor or transition program to review the match, benefits, and any training before applying.

For spouses and caregivers, include portable skills and location or schedule needs in the comparison.