The shift from military to civilian employment can present unique challenges, but the good news is that veteran skills are in high demand. Leadership, discipline, teamwork, problem-solving, and technical skills are just a few of the traits that employers find in veteran talent.
At INvets, we work with more than 700 employer partners across Indiana to help veterans and their families find careers that provide stability, benefits, and competitive salaries.
So, where should veterans start their job search? Indiana has opportunities in major industries that are a great fit for veterans, offering stability and career growth. Here’s a look at some of the best fields for veterans in Indiana…
Manufacturing & Skilled Trades
Indiana has a strong manufacturing and skilled trades sector, making it an ideal fit for veterans who have experience with mechanics, logistics, or hands-on problem-solving. The state ranks among the top in the nation for manufacturing jobs, employing over 540,000 people in this sector alone. Major employers such as Zimmer Biomet seek out veterans for their technical expertise and leadership skills.
- Average Salary: The annual wage for workers in these fields can range from $50,000 to $63,000.
- Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: Manufacturing jobs require teamwork, discipline, and working with complex systems-similar to a lot of military positions. Plus, companies in this field often offer training programs allowing veterans to improve their skills quickly.
Healthcare & Medical Services
Veterans with medical training, whether in combat medicine, healthcare administration, or logistics, are in high demand in Indiana’s healthcare industry. Hospitals, private clinics, and home healthcare agencies all need skilled professionals to keep operations running smoothly.
- Average Salary: RNs in Indiana earn a median salary of around $77,000, while medical technicians and healthcare administrators make between $50,000 and $70,000 annually.
- Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: If you served as a medic, corpsman, or in any healthcare-related military role, your skills transfer well into civilian healthcare jobs. Many hospitals also offer veteran hiring initiatives and tuition assistance for further training.
- INvets Employer Partners: We work closely with several healthcare and medical companies throughout the state of Indiana like American Health Network and Beacon Health System.
Information Technology (IT) & Cybersecurity
Indiana’s IT sector is growing rapidly. Veterans with experience in communications, intelligence, or technical operations can transition into IT or cybersecurity roles. Companies like Bell Techlogix are actively looking for veterans to fill important tech positions.
- Average Salary: IT support specialists earn around $57,000 per year, while cybersecurity analysts and network administrators can make $80,000 or more.
- Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: Many veterans already have experience working with secure networks, analyzing threats, and problem-solving in high-pressure environments. These skills translate directly into IT roles, and many positions offer remote work options, which can be a great benefit perk.
Logistics & Transportation
Indiana’s central location makes it a good choice for companies logistically, with major distribution centers, railroads, and highways connecting businesses across the country. Veterans who worked in supply chain management, vehicle operations, or logistics in the military will find plenty of opportunities in this field.
- Average Salary: Truck drivers in Indiana earn around $55,000 per year, while supply chain managers and logistics analysts can earn between $65,000 and $90,000.
- Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: If you handled equipment, coordinated missions, or worked in transportation in the military, you already have the skills needed for a successful career in logistics. Many employers in this field also offer veteran hiring incentives and apprenticeships.
Renewable Energy & Skilled Trades
Indiana is becoming a key player in renewable energy, especially in wind and solar power. The demand for wind turbine technicians is expected to grow by 60% in the next decade, making it one of the fastest-growing jobs in the country. Veterans with mechanical skills or an interest in green technology can find a rewarding career in this sector.
- Average Salary: Wind turbine technicians earn an average of $58,000 per year, and electricians in the renewable energy field can make $70,000 or more.
- Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: Many roles in renewable energy involve working outdoors, problem-solving, and using technical skills-all of which veterans are trained to do. Companies in this sector also offer great benefits and career advancement opportunities.
- INvets Employer Partners: We work closely with several companies throughout the state of Indiana, like Duke Energy that are on the cutting edge of energy production.
Entrepreneurship & Business Ownership
Many veterans choose to forge their own path by starting a business. Indiana has a strong network of resources for veteran entrepreneurs, including grants, mentorship programs, and funding opportunities through organizations like the Small Business Administration (SBA).
Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: Leadership, resilience, and strategic thinking are key to running a successful business-all skills that veterans develop during their service. Whether you’re looking to start a franchise, a consulting firm, or a local service business, Indiana offers a welcoming environment for veteran entrepreneurs.
- We can connect you with state and federal resources that help jumpstart your startup.
Finding the Right Career Path with INvets
At INvets, we’re dedicated to helping veterans and their families find a meaningful and fulfilling future in Indiana. We connect job seekers with veteran-friendly employers, offer career coaching, and help military families find the right community for their needs. If you’re ready to explore your next career move, become a free member today. We provide our services at no cost to veterans, active-duty military, and spouses. Sign up here today and get personalized help tomorrow: