U.S. Department of LaborDOL Career andCredential Exploration(C2E)
Participant Guide

1

January 2021 Edition

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Table of Contents
Section 1: Getting Started............................................................................................................................... 5
1.1

Objectives........................................................................................................................................... 5

1.2

Course Overview ................................................................................................................................ 5

1.3

High-Quality Civilian Career ............................................................................................................... 6

1.4

Career Transition Timeline ................................................................................................................. 7

1.5

Activity: What I'd Be Doing If I Wasn't Here? .................................................................................... 8

Section 2: Vocational Training Foundation ................................................................................................... 10
2.1

What Is Vocational Training? ........................................................................................................... 10

2.2

Why Pursue Vocational Training? .................................................................................................... 10

2.3

The Career Clusters .......................................................................................................................... 11

2.4

Career Clusters and Their Pathways ................................................................................................ 12

2.5

Activity: Identify Occupations Using the Career Cluster on O*NET................................................. 15

2.6

Activity: Career Cluster Exercise ...................................................................................................... 16

Section 3: Self-assessments .......................................................................................................................... 19
3.1

What Is an Assessment? .................................................................................................................. 19

3.2

Holland Codes – Personality Types .................................................................................................. 20

3.3

Activity: RIASEC Exercise .................................................................................................................. 21

3.4

Activity: O*NET Interest Profiler ...................................................................................................... 23

3.5

Career Clusters and the Holland Codes ........................................................................................... 25

3.6

Aptitude Assessment ....................................................................................................................... 27

3.7

Activity: CareerScope® Assessment ................................................................................................. 31

3.8

Values Assessment ........................................................................................................................... 35

3.9

Activity: O*NET Work Importance Locator-Assessment ................................................................. 36

3.10

Status Check ..................................................................................................................................... 42

3.11

Activity: Putting the Pieces Together ............................................................................................... 42

Section 4: Labor Market Research ................................................................................................................ 45
4.1

External factors ................................................................................................................................ 45

4.2

Occupational Research .................................................................................................................... 46

4.3

Activity: O*Net Summary Report..................................................................................................... 46

4.4

Getting Help at the American Job Center (AJC) ............................................................................... 48

4.5

Activity: Access the AJC Online ........................................................................................................ 48

Section 5: Exploring Training Opportunities ................................................................................................. 51
2

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

5.1

Why Are Credentials Important? ..................................................................................................... 51

5.2

Common Types of Credentials ......................................................................................................... 52

5.3

Activity: Identify Qualifications and Requirements ......................................................................... 53

5.4

Ways to Gain Credentials ................................................................................................................. 55

5.5

Activity: Apprenticeship.gov ............................................................................................................ 56

5.6

Activity: Identify Training and Credentials Opportunity .................................................................. 61

5.7

Gaining More Skills Before Transition.............................................................................................. 63

5.8

Activity: United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP) ............................................. 64

5.9

Activity: Using COOL ........................................................................................................................ 65

5.10

Funding Your Training and Education .............................................................................................. 66

5.11

Activity: GI Bill Comparison Tool ...................................................................................................... 69

5.12

Factors to Consider When Seeking Vocational Training .................................................................. 71

5.13

Red Flags to Avoid When Seeking Vocational Training.................................................................... 72

5.14

Comparing Programs ....................................................................................................................... 74

5.15

Activity: Compare Programs ............................................................................................................ 74

5.16

Additional Resources ....................................................................................................................... 78

Section 6: Designing the Path ....................................................................................................................... 82
6.1

Making a Plan for Success ................................................................................................................ 82

6.2

Activity: Create an Action Plan......................................................................................................... 82

6.3

Summing It Up.................................................................................................................................. 86

Section 7: Appendix ...................................................................................................................................... 88
7.1

O*Net Occupational Lists by Work Value ........................................................................................ 88

7.2

Job Zone Definitions....................................................................................................................... 110

7.3

Website Guide................................................................................................................................ 112

3

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

1
Getting Started

4tSection 1:

Getting Started

Welcome to the Department of Labor’s Vocational Training Workshop. The purpose of this training is toprovide you with information and a range of tools and resources to help you evaluate your career options
and gain the necessary training or credentials needed to pursue your vocational career goals.

1.1

Objectives

Upon completion of this training, you will have learned how to

1.2•

Define the concept of vocational training•

Complete and review self-assessments on skills, knowledge, and values to make informed careerdecisions•

Identify and explore career opportunities in each of the 16 nationally recognized career clusters•

Identify the training requirements and types of credentials and qualifications needed for youroccupations of interest•

Identify the associated costs and potential benefits of various apprenticeships, credentialing, or
licensing goals•

Develop a plan of action by which you will accomplish a specific career goal

Course Overview

The goal of this course is to provide you with the essential tools and resources you need to evaluate career
options, gain information for training and employment, and identify the next steps you should take tofacilitate your transition to the civilian workforce.

Vocational
Foundation
Define the core
concepts ofvocational training

Self-Assessment
Completeand review
self-assessments

Labor Market
Research
Identify andexplore career
opportunities

5

Training
Opportunities
Identify training
requirements andoptions

Design the Path
Develop an
action plan1.3

High-Quality Civilian Career

The purpose of the DOL’s curriculum is to assist Service Members with their transition into a high-quality
civilian career. A high-quality civilian career provides meaningful work, which allows one to utilize
knowledge, skills, and abilities in an occupation that supports their values while earning a substantive wage.
An investment in higher education or a training program can help to secure a high-quality civilian career.
Generally, the employment rate and earning potential are greater for those with marketable skills andhigher levels of educational attainment. According to the DOL’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals withan associate degree, on average, earn 18% more than their counterparts with high school diplomas.
Likewise, an individual with a bachelor’s degree, on average, earns 64% more. According to the statistics
released by DOL’s Office of Apprenticeship, over the course of their career apprenticeship graduates earn
$300,000 more on average in wages and benefits than their peers who do not participate in a Registered
Apprenticeship.

6

1.4

Career Transition Timeline

This manual complements the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) curriculum by providing you with accessto tools and best practices that will help you to transition from military service to a civilian career. The
curriculum’s Career Transition Timeline is presented below. This timeline provides specific guidelines andtimeframes to manage and navigate your journey toward a new career path.

Career Transition Timeline
Timetable

18 to 24 Months
Before Transition

12 to 18 Months
Before Transition

6 to 12 Months Before
Transition

0 to 6 Months Before
Transition

Primary
Activities

Assessment andCareer Exploration

Preparation Activities

Engagement Activities

Transition• If separating/transitioning,schedule/attend
Initial Counselingand Pre-separationCounseling (canoccur before 365
days, but no later
than 365 days)• Begin & refine job
search• Attend career fairs• Register for/attend
any remaining TAP
workshops• Targeted
networking• Meet with local TAP
Counselor• Complete selfassessment• Create a LinkedIn
account• Identify a mentor• Begin exploring
career options
Description• If retiring,schedule/attend
Initial Counselingand Pre-separationCounseling (canoccur before 365
days, but no later
than 365 days)• Develop an
Individual
Transition Plan
(ITP).

Outcome• Explore SkillBridgeor Career Skills
opportunities• Complete targetedresume• Sign up for a freeyear of LinkedIn
Premium
Subscription• Practiceinterviewing• Connect with an
American Job
Center (AJC) locallyor at postseparation location• Apply and interview
for positions• Continue to
network and stay
involved on
LinkedIn and othersocial media sites• Explore othertraining
opportunities• Create a masterresumeHigh-Quality Civilian Career

As you complete this course, be sure to update your Individual Transition Plan (ITP) and think about how
you can incorporate the information from the different modules into a customized, strategic, andactionable plan by which you can achieve your goals. Let’s get started!

7

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

1.5

Participant Guide

Activity: What I'd Be Doing If I Wasn't Here?

Share with the class the following information:•

Your name•What you would be doing at work right now if you weren’t here.

•

Why you chose to complete the Career and Credential Exploration (C2E) training.

•

What you hope to gain from this training.

8

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

2
Vocational Training
Foundation

9

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Section 2:

Participant Guide

Vocational Training Foundation

You may have an idea of your goals and thesteps you need to take, but you still may beunsure of the vast career and training
options that are available. In this section,
you will learn about the foundation of
vocational training and how it can help you
achieve your career goals.

2.1

What Is Vocational Training?

Vocational training is an educational
program that provides students with
instruction and training for a field ortrade. It is also known as Career andTechnical Education. The purpose of the
program is to train students with a specificskill set to enter the workforce quickly andprovide the technical skills they need tocompete successfully in the global
economy.
Vocational training is typically based on ahands-on approach to learning wherestudents are taught the practical skills andknowledge that employers are seeking.
Traditional degree-granting colleges anduniversities, on the other hand, offer
programs that are intended to provide
students with a solid foundation of skills
and knowledge related to a broad area of study. For example, vocational training can prepare students for
specific roles as dental hygienists, mechanical engineering technicians, fitness trainers, etc., whereas
traditional degree-granting colleges prepare students for various careers in the business, science, orengineering fields.

2.2

Why Pursue Vocational Training?

There is a big demand for skilled labor. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are now more job
openings than there are workers, making it more challenging for employers to find qualified candidates tofill open positions. Truck driving, construction, information technology, health sciences, and electrical work
are just some of the industries that are currently hardest hit by this labor gap. There are simply not enoughpeople entering the skilled labor workforce to replenish the number of baby boomers retiring from theseindustries.
10

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Here are some reasons you should pursue vocational training:
1. Timeframe: Vocational training programs are shorter than the typical four-year degree programs,
which makes it much quicker and easier to transition into a new career.
2. Cost: All education programs carry a cost; however, vocational training is notably less expensive
than college degree programs. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, theaverage cost of a four-year university program leading to a degree can be around $100,000, while
the average cost for vocational training is much lower.
3. Flexible Career Pathways: There are numerous career opportunities, such as apprenticeshipprograms and on-the-job training that are available to students who are interested in learning askilled trade. Students may start working in the field while they continue their education.
4. Early Start: Students can complete their career training in less time than those completing
conventional four-year degree programs, and they are then able to join the workforce muchsooner. Having two additional years in a career can mean students are able to set aside a portion of
their income for savings, start repaying any student loans that were acquired during school, andstart living the life they want far sooner than their university counterparts.
5. Jobs in Demand: Vocational jobs have taken off in recent years due to high projected job growth
and a lack of skilled workers.
These reasons may confirm your interest in the vocational training track, but you may still need clarification
on what specific vocational career is a good fit for you. With so many career choices, where do you start?
A good place to start is to take a broad look at all career options through the career clusters and thennarrow down your choices.

2.3

The Career Clusters

The vocational training program adopts the U.S. Department of Education’s Career Clusters to provide away for schools across the nation to organize instruction and student experience around 16 career clusters
and its career pathways. Career Clusters categorize the knowledge and skills students need as they follow apathway toward their career goals.
There are 16 clusters, and within each cluster are cluster pathways that include hundreds of different
careers. Each of the 16 career clusters provides insight into the many occupational options and identifies
the diverse pathways with different careers and training levels. Even if you don’t possess the skills you
believe are required to work at one specific job, there are other options.
For example, if you are interested in the medical field but don’t want to go school for four years to be aregistered nurse (RN), you can select a career as a license professional nurse (LPN) for less time in school.

11

2.4

Career Clusters and Their Pathways

The table below outlines the 16 career clusters and their respective pathways.
CAREER CLUSTERCAREER PATHWAY

1. AGRICULTURE, FOOD, & NATURAL RESOURCES
Do you enjoy working with plants andanimals? Are you interested in working
to conserve natural resources orprotect the environment? This cluster
includes careers in the production,
processing, distribution, financing, andmarketing of agricultural products
including food, plants, fiber, animals,
wood, and other plant and animal
resources.

•

Agribusiness Systems•

Animal Systems•

Environmental Service Systems•

Food Products & Processing Systems•

Natural Resources Systems•

Plant Systems•

Power, Structural, & Technical Systems•

Construction•

Design/Pre-construction•

Maintenance/Operations•

Journalism & Broadcasting•

Performing Arts•

Printing Technology•

Telecommunications•

Visual Arts•

Administrative Support•

Business Information Management•

Human Resources Management•

General Management•

Operations Management

2. ARCHITECTURE & CONSTRUCTION
Do you want to design, build, andmaintain structures where people live,
work, and play? This cluster includes
careers in designing, planning,
managing, building, and maintaining
the built environment.
3. ARTS, AUDIO/VIDEO TECHNOLOGY & COMMUNICATIONS
Do you like to perform? Do you love to
use your artistic creativity on the job?
This cluster includes careers indesigning, producing, exhibiting,performing, writing, and publishingmultimedia content, including visualand performing arts and design,
journalism, and entertainment services.
4. BUSINESS MANAGEMENT & ADMINISTRATIONAre you entrepreneurial? Do you like toplan and organize activities? This cluster
includes careers in planning, organizing,
directing, and evaluating business
functions essential to effective andproductive business operations.

12

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

CAREER CLUSTERCAREER PATHWAY

5. EDUCATION & TRAINING
Do you enjoy teaching others? Are you
comfortable with public speaking? This
cluster includes careers in planning,
managing, and providing education andtraining services and related learning
support services, including administrationand library services.

•
•
•
•

Administration & Administrative Support
Professional Support Services
Teaching/Training

Do you like to work with numbers? Do you
want to help people plan for their financial
futures? This cluster includes careers infinancial and investment planning,banking, insurance, and business financial
management.

•
•
•
•
•

Accounting
Banking Services
Business Finance
Securities & Investments
Insurance

7. GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC ADMINISTRATIONAre you interested in government andpolitics? Does the idea of protecting ourcountry appeal to you? This cluster
includes careers in planning and providing
government services at the federal, state,
and local levels, including services related
to national security, legislation, foreign
service. .

•
•
•
•
•
•

Governance
National Security
Planning
Public Management & Administration
Regulation
Revenue & Taxation

•
•
•
•
•

Biotechnology Research & Development
Diagnostic Services
Health Informatics
Support Services
Therapeutic Services

•
•
•
•

Lodging
Recreation, Amusements, & Attractions
Restaurants & Food/Beverage Services
Travel & Tourism

6. FINANCE

8. HEALTH SCIENCE

Do you enjoy helping people feel better?
Would you like working in a hospital or othermedical facility? This cluster includes careers
in planning, managing, and providing
therapeutic, diagnostic, health informatics,
support services, and biotechnologicalresearch and development.
9. HOSPITALITY & TOURISM
Do you want to help other people enjoy theirleisure time? Would you like to work in a
hotel or in a restaurant? This cluster includes
careers in the management, marketing, andoperations of restaurants and other foodservices, lodging, attractions, recreation
events, and travel-related services.

13

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

10. HUMAN SERVICES

Participant Guide

CAREER CLUSTERCAREER PATHWAY

Do you like to help families solve
problems? Would you like to connect
people with the assistance they need? This
cluster includes careers that provide family
and individual services such as counselingand mental health, personal care, andconsumer advice.

•
•
•
•
•

Consumer Services
Counseling & Mental Health Services
Early Childhood Development & Services
Family & Community Services
Personal Care Services

•
•
•
•

Information Support & Services
Network Systems
Programming & Software Development
Web & Digital Communications

•
•
•
•
•

Correction Services
Emergency & Fire Management Services
Law Enforcement Services
Legal Services
Security & Protective Services

Do you like to design and make things?
Are you comfortable working withmachines? This cluster includes careers inplanning, managing, and performing theprocessing of materials into intermediateor final products and related professional
and technical support activities, such as
production planning and control,
maintenance.

•
•
•
•

Maintenance, Installation, & Repair
Manufacturing Production Process
Development
Production
Quality Assurance

Do you like to sell products or services?
Are you friendly and outgoing? This
cluster includes careers in planning,
managing, and performing marketing
activities to reach organizational
objectives.

•
•
•
•
•

MerchandisingMarketing Management
Marketing Communications
Marketing Research
Professional Sales

11. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Do you like technology? Do you enjoy
working with computer hardware,
software, multimedia, or network
systems? This cluster includes careers
related to the design, development,
support, and management of hardware,
software, internet, multimedia, andsystems integration services.
12. LAW, PUBLIC SAFETY, CORRECTIONS, & SECURITY
Do you like to help protect other people's
safety? Do you want to help enforce thelaw? This cluster includes careers inplanning, managing, and providing legal,
public safety, corrections, protective
services, and homeland security, including
professional and technical support.
13.MANUFACTURING

14. MARKETING

14

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

CAREER CLUSTER
15. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, & MATHEMATICS
Do you like science or math? Do you enjoy
solving problems? This cluster includes
occupations and careers in planning,
managing, and providing scientific researchand professional and technical services(e.g., physical science, social science,engineering), including laboratory andtesting services, and research anddevelopment services.
16. TRANSPORTATION, DISTRIBUTION, & LOGISTICS
Would you like to fly planes, drive trucks,
or pilot ships? Does the idea of fixing thesevehicles appeal to you? This cluster
includes careers in planning and managing
the movement of people, materials, andgoods by road, pipeline, air, rail, and water.
Professional support services like logistics
services and mobile equipment and facility
maintenance are also part of this cluster.

2.5

CAREER PATHWAY••Engineering & Technology
Science & Mathematics

•
•
•
•
•

Facility & Mobile Equipment Maintenance
Logistics Planning & Management Services
Sales & Service
Transportation Operations
Transportation Systems/Infrastructure
Planning,
Management & Regulation•

Activity: Identify Occupations Using the Career Cluster on O*NETThis activity will give you an opportunity to explore the 16 career clusters and the vast occupations within
the pathways.
Step

Action1

Visit O*net at www.O*NETonline.org.

2

Under the Find Occupations tab, click Career Cluster.

3

In the drop-down box, select the Career Cluster you are interested in.

15

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

4

Click Go.

5

Review the Career Pathways within the cluster and the occupation.

6

Click on the occupation to get a summary report.

2.6

Activity: Career Cluster Exercise

In this activity, you will determine what career opportunities exist within a single interest. You will use the
O*NET online website to find a career that best meets the needs described in the case scenario.
Step

Action1

Get in a small group and read your assigned statement.

2
3

As a group, decide what career would be a good match for the case scenario.
Your group will present your recommendations to the class.

1. Jason loves sports, especially basketball, but he doesn’t have the skills to become a professional
basketball player in the NBA.

2. Anna is good with numbers but would like to combine her interest in accounting and business withsomething more creative.

16

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

3. Saleem’s passion is helping people, and he has a background in nursing. But he enjoys being outdoors
and doesn’t want to work in a hospital setting.
4. Hector enjoys working with animals, but he doesn’t feel comfortable around sick or hurt animals.

5. Tom likes to design and work with machines. He wants to be a mechanical engineer, but he isstruggling with calculus.

6. Tram is fascinated with studying the law, but she doesn’t want to be a lawyer due to the extremely
long hours at work.

7. Jayden loves helping others and wants to be a social worker, but social work requires a master’s
degree. He doesn’t have a degree just yet, but he wants to work in a field where he can help others.

17

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

3
Self-assessments

18

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Section 3:

Participant Guide

Self-assessments

During the Military Occupational Code or MOC Crosswalk, you performed a selfassessment to identify skills and a few careers or occupations that may be rightfor you. You also conducted labor market research on your chosen careersand created an action plan for your next steps.
You have researched career options that are in the Vocational Training
workshop, and you are now well on your way to creating a clear pathway
for your career transition. However, because some time has passed, it isimportant to pause and verify that the careers or occupations you
previously selected are still of interest to you.
Before pursuing a job or investing in a training program, you need to be confident that the occupation is agood fit with your personality, traits, and aspirations. Taking the time to self-reflect can make thedifference between accepting an unsatisfying job of convenience or moving on to a rewarding career thatgets you excited to go to work every day. In this section, you will get the opportunity and time to performseveral assessments to explore occupations that match your interests, abilities, and work values.
You will complete three career assessments that match occupations to your personal interests, abilities,
and work values. Each assessment examines your strengths and attitudes from a different perspective andthen recommends suitable occupations based on your unique results. These assessments can help you gain
insights about yourself so that you can articulate what is important to you, focus your job search, andbetter evaluate your options. Even if you already know what career you want to pursue, personalassessments can offer you a deeper understanding of how to best position yourself for success.
As you review the career suggestions these tools provide, think about your personal priorities, and look forcommon themes among the assessment results. Think about how the recommendations can help you find acareer in the “sweet spot” where your interests, values, and aptitudes intersect.

3.1

What Is an Assessment?

Career assessment is the process of evaluating how a variety of personal attributes such as your interests,
values, and aptitudes impact your potential success and satisfaction with different career options and work
environments. Career assessments are not considered tests because there are no right or wrong answers.
The assessments take into consideration how high you score in various careers based on your answers toquestions pertaining to your interests, skills, personality traits, and values.
While the assessments are great tools to help you narrow down your career options, it cannot determine
the perfect career for you. Career assessments have limitations, so you will need different tools andresources to select a career that is the best fit for you. It can certainly help you get started, but you stillneed to carefully consider the pros and cons of any occupation that interests you.

19

3.2

Holland Codes – Personality Types

An interest assessment can help you identify careers that match your interests. Most people would agree
that when they perform tasks they enjoy; they are more likely to experience job satisfaction.
Dr. John L. Holland created the RIASEC model as a way of classifying personality types by work activity
interests and matching them to correlated occupations. The RIASEC is based on the concept that there are
six distinct interest categories, which are represented by the letters R, I, A, S, E, and C:[R] Realistic"Doers"[I]Investigative•

Concrete tasks, objects,
machines, tools, plants, oranimals••

PREFER WORKING WITH: Ideas
and facts•

PREFER WORKING WITH: Self-

expression through various forms
including images, materials,
music, and movement•

LIKES: To create art, ideas, andprograms

20•

PREFER WORKINGWITH: People•

LIKES: To teach, coach,•

PREFER WORKINGWITH: Organizations•

LIKES: To influence,"Helpers"[E] Enterprising

LIKES: To observe, learn,

investigate, analyze, and solve
problems"Thinkers""Creators"

LIKES: To work on practical,

hands-on problems and answers•[A] Artistic[S] Social

PREFER WORKING WITH:

persuade, lead, and direct
others"Persuaders"[C] Conventional"Organizers"

inform, and help others
solve problems•

PREFER WORKINGWITH: Data and numbers•

LIKES: To enter

information, carry out
detailed tasks, and haveclerical or numericalinterests

Most individuals tend to identify more strongly with a combination of two or three of these areas and lessstrongly with the others. Commonly, we refer to an individual’s RIASEC code using three letters, which
represents their top three interest categories. For example, a person whose three strongest interest areas
are conventional, realistic, and enterprising would identify as “CRE.” Knowing your dominant RIASEC
interests can help you identify the type of work that you may find the most interesting and rewarding.
The RIASEC model arranges these six categories on a hexagon, with most similar interests adjacent to eachother and least similar interests opposite each other.

Realistic

Conventional

Investigative

Enterprising

Artistic

Social3.3

Activity: RIASEC Exercise

This exercise is designed to help you learn about your interests. After
this exercise you will identify your Holland Code and take the Interest
Profiler Assessment.
Step
1.

2.
3.
4.
5.

Action
You will be attending an all-day training event. You arrive early and do not know anyone. As you lookaround the room, you notice that there are six distinct groups of people: doers, thinkers, creators,
helpers, persuaders, organizers.
You need to move to the group that you think are most like you.
You will then need to move to the second group most like you.
Lastly, you will move to the third group most like you.
Record your three groups in the order of your most favorite down in the box below:

21

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

You will take the O*NET Interest Profiler to identify your dominant RIASEC code and cross reference themwith information about more than 900 potential occupations. These occupations have been classified
according to associated work activities and five job zones, grouped by length of typical preparation, so thatrecommendations can be refined to reflect individual interests and related preparation preferences.
5 Job Zones

Job Zone 01

Little or no
preparation
Occupations may
require a high school
diploma or GED
certificate.

Job Zone 02

Some preparation
Occupations usuallyrequire a high school
diploma.

Job Zone 03

Medium preparation
Most occupations
require training in
vocational schools,
related on-the-job
experience, or an
associate degree.

22

Job Zone 04

Considerable preparation
Most of these occupations
require a bachelor’s
degree.

Job Zone 05

Extensive preparation
Occupations require a
graduate school
education (master’s
degree, doctorate, law,or medical degree,etc.).

3.4

Activity: O*NET Interest Profiler

This assessment will identify your dominant RIASEC code. It has four sections: Interests, Results, Job Zones,
and Careers.
Step

Action1

To access the O*NET Interest Profiler, go to www.mynextmove.org/explore/ip

2

In the Interests section, answer 60 questions to assess how you would feel about different work activities.
Note: Your answers should be based ONLY on how you would feel about doing these activities and NOT on
your experience level, training, ability, or earning potential. It is important to remember that there are nowrong or right answers, only your opinion matters.

3

Once you finish answering all 60 questions, click Next to proceed to your Interest Profiler results.

4

In the Results section, view your results in the numerical rankings across the six RIASEC interests.
Note: You can click on any of the six interest areas to read its description. Notice that your three strongest
interests are shown in bold.

23

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

5

Participant Guide

Write down your scores below for future reference.
Note: If you would like to view your report later, you can click Enter Scores on the Interest Profiler home
page without having to retake the entire questionnaire.

Category

6

7

Score

Category

Realistic

SocialInvestigative

Enterprising

Artistic

Conventional

Score

In the Job Zones section, read more about the five job preparation zones used to classify careers in thisassessment.
Note: You may click on any of the five zones to get a more detailed description of the preparation and types
of jobs in that zone.
Select the job zone that matches your CURRENT preparation experience and click Next to see occupations inthat category that match your interests.

8

Click Next to see the occupations.

9

In the Careers section, click any of the career titles for more detailed information. To see options in anotherjob zone, click on the appropriate number in the oval at the top center of the page

24

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

10

Participant Guide

Select several potential occupations in your current job zone and in a future job zone that you would like toinvestigate further in the box below.
CURRENT Job Zone (#_____) Occupations

3.5

FUTURE Job Zone (#_____) Occupations

Career Clusters and the Holland Codes

Holland Codes refer to six personality types that can be a great resource to help you find a suitableeducation pathway. In order to choose a suitable path, you also need a sense of how your interests match
up to the various career clusters. Below are Career Clusters that match up with the Holland Codes.
R-Realistic

•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Agriculture, food, and natural
resources
Architecture and construction
Arts, A/V technology, andcommunications
Health science
Hospitality, and tourism
Information technology
Law, public safety, corrections, andsecurity
Manufacturing
Science, technology, engineering,and mathematics
Transportation, distribution, andlogistics

I-Investigative

•
•
•
•

Health science
Information technology
Law, public safety, corrections,and security
Science, technology, engineering,and mathematics

25

A-Artistic

•
•
•
•
•

Arts, A/V technology, andcommunications
Education and training
Hospitality and tourism
Human services
Marketing, sales, andserviceDOL Career and Credential Exploration
S-Social

•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Arts, A/V technology, andcommunications
Education and training
Government and public
administration
Health science
Human services
Law, public safety, corrections, andsecurity
Marketing, sales, and service

Participant Guide
E-Enterprising

•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Arts, A/V technology, andcommunications
Business, management, andadministration
Finance
Government and public
administration
Hospitality and tourism
Law, public safety, corrections,and security
Marketing, sales, and service

C-Conventional

•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Architecture andconstruction
Business, management,
and administration
Finance
Health science
Manufacturing
Marketing, sales, andservice
Transportation,
distribution, and logistics

You have now identified potential careers that match—based solely on your work personality type(interests). You are now one-third of the way toward finding your career “sweet spot.”

26

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

3.6

Participant Guide

Aptitude Assessment

When you joined the military, you may recall taking an aptitude test such as the Armed Services Vocational
Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), the Aviation Selection Test Battery (ASTB), or the Air Force Officer Qualification
Test (AFOQT). This timed test assessed your natural abilities in different areas and was designed specificallyto determine your suitability for various military occupations. Now that you are completing your military
service, your occupation is no longer determined by the needs of your service branch; as such, it is worth
using a different aptitude assessment to take a fresh look at how your strengths may align with a broader
array of civilian careers.
CareerScope® is a career planning tool that was created by the Vocational Research Institute. Through valid
and reliable assessment tasks, it measures both interest and aptitude using a 12-scale interest inventory
and a seven-part aptitude battery.
Your profile results are compared with nearly 1,000 job classifications in the O*NET taxonomy, the New
Guide for Occupational Exploration (GOE), and the older Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT) to generatecareer recommendations that focus on both your interests and abilities.
CareerScope® Work Interest Areas
The following chart shows the 12 different interest areas measured by CareerScope® and includes examplesof related occupations that match each area. You will notice that this assessment considers quite a broadarray of occupations, both blue-collar and white-collar, technical and non-technical, highly skilled and moregeneral in nature.
Based on your responses to questions about performing different work activities, CareerScope® sorts
through these broad options and helps you home in on those that most closely involve the types of tasks
you have indicated that you would enjoy the most.
The 12 interest areas are described in the table below:
Interest Area

Definition

Occupational Examples

1. Artistic

An interest in creative expression of feelings orideas through literary arts, visual arts,
performing arts, or crafts.

Writer, Painter, Actor, Editor, Dancer,
Singer, Graphic Designer, Set Designer

2. Scientific

An interest in discovering, collecting, andPhysician, Audiologist, Veterinarian,analyzing information about the natural world Biologist, Chemist, Speech Pathologist,
and applying scientific research findings toLaboratory Technician
problems in medicine, the life sciences, and thenatural sciences.

3. Plants/Animals

An interest in activities involving plants andanimals, usually in an outdoor setting.

Gardener, Animal Groomer, Landscaper,
Forester, Animal Caretaker

4. Protective

An interest in using authority to protect people
and property.

Police Officer, Private Investigator,
Security Guard, Bodyguard, Park Ranger,
Correctional Officer

27

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Interest Area

Definition

Occupational Examples

5. MechanicalAn interest in applying mechanical principles topractical situations using machines, hand tools,or techniques to produce, build, or repair
things.

Electrical Engineer, Architect, Carpenter,
Chef, Mechanic, Ambulance Driver,
Project Engineer, Computer Equipment
Repairer

6. Industrial

An interest in repetitive, concrete, organizedactivities in a factory setting.

Machinist, Dry Cleaner, Baker, Welder,
Laborer, Lathe Operator, Hand Packager

7. Business Detail

An interest in organized, clearly defined
activities requiring accuracy and attention todetails, primarily in an office setting.

Bill Collector, Secretary, Receptionist,
Customer Service Representative, Health
Information Technician

8. Selling

An interest in bringing others to a point of viewby personal persuasion using sales andpromotional techniques.

Sales Representative, Stadium Vendor,
Clothing Salesperson, Telephone
Solicitor, Financial Planner, Travel Agent

9.
Accommodating

An interest in catering to the wishes and needsof others, usually on a one-to-one basis,through hospitality and service work.

Manicurist, Restaurant Host, Waiter,
Waitress, Personal Shopper, FlightAttendant

10. Humanitarian

An interest in helping individuals with theirmental, social, spiritual, physical, andvocational concerns through medical or social
services, therapy, or nursing.

Home Care Aide, Physical Therapist,
Nurse, Medical Assistant, Child Care
Worker, Dental Hygienist, Counselor,
Probation Officer

11. Leading/
Influencing

An interest in leading and influencing others byusing high-level verbal or numerical abilities inbusiness, education, research, or management
positions.

Database Administrator, Paralegal,
Teacher, Computer Engineer, Lawyer,
Stockbroker, Computer Programmer

12. Physical
Performing

An interest in physical activities performed
before an audience, such as sports or daring
physical feats.

Athlete, Coach, Movie Stunt Performer,
Juggler, Sports Instructor

28

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

CareerScope® Aptitude Areas
To help tailor career recommendations even further, the CareerScope® assessment aligns seven major
aptitude areas with the specific job tasks required in different occupations. When making
recommendations, CareerScope® matches your relative strengths with the combination of aptitude areas
required for each occupation.
The seven aptitudes measured by CareerScope® are outlined in the table below:
Aptitude
GeneralLearning
G

Definition
The ability to “catch on” or understandinstructions and underlying principles;ability to reason and make judgments.
Closely related to doing well in school.
Examples: Use logic or scientific facts todefine problems and draw conclusions;
make decisions and judgments; planand supervise the work of others.

Specific Job Tasks
Diagnose and treat
illnesses or injuries;
use facts to solve acrime; plan the layoutof a computer
network; inspect andtest engine parts.

CareerScope®
Pattern Visualization,
Numerical Reasoning,
Word Meanings

VerbalAptitudeV

The ability to understand the meaningof words and to use them effectively;
ability to comprehend language, tounderstand relationships between
words, and to understand the meaningsof whole sentences and paragraphs.
Examples: Understand oral or written
instructions or guidelines; understandand use training materials; use workrelated reference materials.
The ability to perform arithmetic
operations quickly and accurately.
Examples: Make accurate numeric
measurements; perform currency
calculations; lay out geometricpatterns.

Write a novel;
interview guests on aradio talk show; edit
newspaper articles for
publication; write
captions for magazine
photos; take notes
during class.

Word Meanings

Analyze statistical
data; develop budgets
for an organization;measure wall
openings to fit andinstall windows; add
lists of numbers.
Design layouts for
new highway systems;
create diagrams ofwiring systems inbuildings; use
patterns to makeclothing; operate aforklift; use a floor
plan to find an office.

Computation, Numerical
Reasoning

Numerical
AptitudeN

SpatialAptitudeS

The ability to think visually of geometricforms and to comprehend the twodimensional representation of threedimensional objects; ability torecognize the relationships resulting
from the movement of objects in space.
Examples: Lay out or position objects;
observe and comprehend the
movements of objects; understand theeffects of physical stresses on objects.

29

Object Identification,
Abstract Shape Matching

DOL Career and Credential Exploration
Form
Perception
P

Clerical
Perception
Q

ManualDexterity
M

Participant Guide

The ability to perceive detail in objects
or in pictorial or graphic material;
ability to make visual comparisons anddiscriminations and see slightdifferences in shapes and shadings offigures and widths and lengths of lines.
Examples: Inspect objects for flaws or
scratches; determine whether patterns
are the same; observe color, texture,and size of objects.
The ability to perceive pertinent detailin verbal or tabular material; ability toobserve differences in copy, toproofread words and numbers, and to
avoid perceptual errors in arithmetic
computation.
Examples: Check work orders andspecifications for errors.
The ability to move the hands easily
and skillfully; ability to work with thehands in placing and turning motions.
Examples: Move, stack, turn, or place
objects; make coordinated movementsof the arms and hands.

30

Examine and compare
cells under amicroscope; checktemperature gauges
on machinery; inspect
parts on an assemblyline; sort merchandiseby size.

Object Identification,
Abstract Shape Matching

Proofreadmanuscripts for
typographical errors;
keep inventory
records; sort mail by
ZIP code; operate acash register.

Clerical Matching

Stack bricks toconstruct a wall; packoranges into crates;
position dolls in a toy
store window display.

CareerScope® does notdirectly measure this.
However, based upon youruse of the computer
mouse, it is assumed thatyour scores are at least
average.

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

3.7

Participant Guide

Activity: CareerScope® Assessment

CareerScope® includes questions about your work preferences as well as a series of timed assessment
tasks. Set aside time to complete it in one sitting with no interruptions. The entire assessment should takeapproximately one hour.

Step

Action1
2

Go to https://dol-vets.careerscope.net/assessment to access CareerScope®.
Click the box labeled “Click Here to Enter Assessment Portal.”

3

If you are a new user, click the “New Evaluees Register Here” link to create a user ID and password.
Note: Write down your user ID and password for future reference. If you already have a user ID andpassword, you can simply sign in using that information.

4

Complete the series of timed tasks.
Note: Try to work both accurately and quickly through each task. Do not be concerned if you are not able
to answer all questions in all sections in the time permitted. After the time expires for each task, you will
be given the option of immediately moving to the next assessment or resting for 90 seconds. At the endof the 90 seconds, the program will automatically launch the next task.

5

When you are finished, click Preview Results.

6

Save your results as a PDF document for future access.

31

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Review Your CareerScope® ResultsYour results consist of a CareerScope® Assessment Profile followed by a short CareerScope® Summary
Report. It is important to note that your results are highly personalized and are not better or worse thananyone else’s.
CareerScope® Assessment Profile
Section 1: Interest Inventory
The first section (pages 1-2) of your CareerScope® Assessment Profile shows your interest results in two
different formats.
Part I—Interest Area Scores: Here, you see the raw scores of your responses to the interest questions. You
also see percentile scores, which compare your interest results to other adults aged 18 years and older.
Your most significant interest areas have the highest percentile scores and are shown and ranked in thecolumn headed “IPA” on the far-right side of the table.
Part II—Individual Profile Analysis (IPA): This page shows your interests in the 12 areas relative to eachother. The vertical black line shows your average percentage of like responses across all areas. You canquickly see which interest areas stand out as your strongest by looking at the bars that extend farthest to
the right of the line.
CareerScope® Assessment Profile
Section 2: Aptitude Assessment
The second section (page 3) of your CareerScope® Assessment Profile shows your aptitude results in two
different formats.
Part I—Performance on Tasks: This shows your raw scores in each of the seven aptitude assessment tasks.
You can see which tasks were easier for you and which were more challenging.
Part II—Aptitude Profile: Your performance on tasks is compared to other adults aged 18 and older. The
space between the two vertical black lines represents the average range performance for adults. The bars
that extend farthest to the right reflect your strongest abilities.

Note: By default, manual dexterity tasks are all shown as 50th percentile due to the limitations of measuring
this aptitude in an online environment.

32

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

CareerScope® Assessment Profile
Section 3: Recommendations
The third section (beginning on page 4) of your CareerScope® Assessment Profile provides two sets ofoccupation recommendations based on your interests and aptitudes. Your scores are referenced against
the Guide to Occupational Exploration (GOE), the Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT), and the O*NET
database of nearly 1,000 occupations, including their associated work activities, vocational preparation, andskill requirements.
GOE/DOT Recommendations (page 4) focus on careers that intersect with your high-interest areas andhigh-aptitude areas. You will see that your strongest interest areas are subdivided into work groups that
require similar aptitudes that align with your own.
Each has its own DOT# for reference and is followed by information related to the General Education
Development (GED) and Specific Vocational Preparation (SVP) required for the occupation. This provides
you with an understanding of the level of education or training typically associated with these occupations.
GED and SVP are explained in more detail on the final page of the Recommendations section.
O*NET Recommendations are listed after the GOE/DOT pages. The O*NET recommendation report includes
detailed O*NET occupations that are related to your interest and aptitude profile (drawn from the O*NET
15.0 database). O*NET Occupation Titles are listed along with O*NET Occupation Codes. An occupation is acluster of related positions/jobs that share similar tasks and work activities.
CareerScope® Assessment Profile
Section 4: Summary ReportYour CareerScope® Summary Report is included in the final three pages of your document. The top of Page
1 of the Summary Report shows your Interest and Aptitude Results.
The bottom of Page 1 shows recommendations summarized in chart form. Interest Areas and theirassociated work groups are listed in order. Numbers in the “I” column appear next to work groups based on
precedence of interest (your IPA). Symbols appearing in the “A” column appear where your aptitude scoresqualify you for that work group. Solid dots indicate strong confidence in the recommendation, while hollow
dots represent less confidence in the recommendation. This coding is based upon your aptitude scores.
Any Work Group that has both a number (high interest) and a solid dot (high aptitude) is a good place tostart your career exploration. If no Work Groups have both, you may decide to look further into thosecareers that have either a number or a solid dot.
Keep in mind that you can have high aptitude, but if you have little interest, you will likely find yourself in a
job that you may not enjoy. Conversely, if you have high interest but very low or no aptitude, you may findit a significant struggle to perform the work. However, you should be aware that almost every job involves
some aspects or tasks that you may not enjoy.

33

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

The key is to find jobs in which you enjoy most of the work activities and, as such, some of the less desirable
aspects are balanced out.
Look through your recommendations and write down a few of the career options below that interest you:

1._________________________________ 2.__________________________________
3._________________________________ 4.__________________________________

Note: If your report does not include any recommendations, it could be that there is no overlap between
your high interest and high aptitude areas. If this happens, please speak to your facilitator during a breakabout your options. Also, use the recommendations from the other two assessments in this section.

You have now identified potential careers based on your interests and aptitudes and are two-thirds ofthe way toward finding your career “sweet spot.”

34

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

3.8

Participant Guide

Values Assessment

Work values (such as achievement, autonomy, and conditions of work) are important considerations incareer planning. While your aptitudes and interests may determine if a job is suitable for you, the extent towhich the job is aligned with your work values determines your level of satisfaction in that job.
The O*NET Work Importance Locator (WIL) is a self-assessment career exploration tool that allows you to
pinpoint what is most important to you in a job: Achievement, Independence, Recognition, Relationships,
Support, and Working Conditions. How you rank each value, relative to the others, can help form a list ofcareers that match your values and is likely to satisfy you.
Though many of the people who leave military service choose their first civilian job based primarily on their
immediate needs, there is tremendous value in understanding what work situations will best support yourlong-term needs. Think about opportunities not only from a practical standpoint but also from a strategic
one.

35

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

3.9

Participant Guide

Activity: O*NET Work Importance Locator-Assessment

This is a paper and pencil exercise through which you will rank statements about different aspects of workin order of importance to you in your ideal job. There are no right or wrong answers, so take your time tocarefully consider what you imagine your optimal work environment would look like.
Step
1

Action
Review the Work Value Cards• Find the 20 Work Value Card statements in your participant’s guide. Notice that eachstatement card has a letter on it for easy reference.
•

Read all 20 statements before you move on.

Think about how important it would be for you to have a job like the one described on each card2

Sort the Cards• Find the Work Value Card Sorting Sheet in your participant’s guide and use it to sort thecards in order of importance.
•

Notice the five columns printed under the importance scale at the top of the sheet. Eachcolumn contains a number that ranges from 1 (least important) to 5 (most important).

•

Put each card into the column that best matches how important it is for you to have a job
like the one described on the card.

•

Put exactly four cards in each column.

When you are finished, the four most important statements should be in Column 5, the four next mostimportant statements should be in Column 4, and so on.
The four least important statements should be in Column 1. You may have to move the cards around
until you have exactly four cards in each column.
If individual cards are not available, you may record the letter associated with each statement in theappropriate space on the sorting sheet.
3

Calculate Your Scores• Use the worksheet on the page 38 to calculate your six work value scores.
•

Look at your Card Sorting Sheet. Your score for each card equates to the number of thecolumn in which you placed it. The cards in Column 5 each score 5, the cards in Column 4each score 4, and so on.

•

In the Achievement box on the Work Value Worksheet, note that Card A is listed first. On
your Card Sorting Sheet, find the column in which you placed Card A. Write the number ofthat column in the scoring space beside Card A in the Achievement box. Do the same thing
for all the other cards.

•

For each box on your Work Value Worksheet, add up the numbers in the Score Column andwrite the TOTAL in the space provided.

•

Multiply each TOTAL score by the number shown below that box and write your score next
to the “=” sign in the box provided.

36

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Work Value Cards

A

I

B

N

F

On my ideal job it isimportant…

On my ideal job it
is important…

On my ideal job it
is important…

On my ideal job it
is important…

On my ideal job it
is important…

…I make use of myabilities.

…I could try out
my own ideas.

…I would betreated fairly by thecompany.

…the job would
provide for steady
employment.

J

G

O

C

K

On my ideal job it isimportant…

On my ideal job it
is important…

On my ideal job it
is important…

On my ideal job it
is important…

On my ideal job it
is important…

…I could work
alone.

…my pay would
compare well withthat of otherworkers.

…I could do thingsfor other people.

…I could be busy
all the time.

…I would never bepressured to do
things that go
against my sense ofright and wrong.

H

P

D

L

Q

On my ideal job it isimportant…

On my ideal job it
is important…

On my ideal job it
is important…

On my ideal job it
is important…

On my ideal job it
is important…

…my co-workers
would be easy to getalong with.

…I havesupervisors who
would back up theirworkers withmanagement.

…the job would
provide an
opportunity foradvancement.

…I could receive
recognition for thework I do.

I have supervisors
who train theirworkers well.

S

E

M

R

T

On my ideal job it isimportant…

On my ideal job it
is important…

On my ideal job it
is important…

On my ideal job it
is important…

On my ideal job it
is important…

The job would havegood working
conditions.

…I could give
directions andinstructions toothers.

…I could makedecisions on myown.

…I could dosomething different
every day.

…I could plan mywork with little
supervision.

37…the work could
give me a feeling ofaccomplishment.

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Work Value Card Sorting Sheet

Less ImportantMore Important

COLUMNCOLUMNCOLUMNCOLUMNCOLUMN

1

2

3

4

5

38

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Work Value Worksheet
INDEPENDENCE

ACHIEVEMENT

SCORE

SCORE
CARD

Columnnumber

CARD

A

I

F

M

Add scores for
total

0

x3

Achievement
Score

ColumnnumberEL

Add scores for
total

SCORE
CARD

Columnnumber0

SCORE

Add scoresfor total+

0

Multiply total
by 2

x2
=

=

WORKING CONDITIONS
SCORE

CARD

Column number

C
G
J
N

+

0

Multiply
total by 2
Support
Score

x2

Column number

Q

O

0

Multiply total
by 2

SUPPORT

CARD+

Recognition
Score

=

P

K

Relationships
Score

x2

B

H

Add scoresfor total

Add scores for
total

+

Independence
Score

RELATIONSHIPS

Column number

D

Multiply total by
2

=

SCORE

CARD

T

+

Multiply total by
3

RECOGNITION

R

x2
=

*Note: The score for the value Working Conditions does not need to be multiplied.

39

S
Add scoresfor total*Working
Conditions
Score

0
=

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

What Your Work Values Mean
You can think of work values as the aspects of work that are important to you. The Work Importance
Locator measures the extent to which you perceive the six values listed below to be of importance in yourfuture career.
Achievement
If Achievement is your highest work value, look for jobs that let you use your best
abilities. Look for work that allows you to see the results of your efforts. Explore jobs
in which you can get the feeling of accomplishment.
Independence
If Independence is your highest work value, look for jobs in which you’ll be allowed touse your initiative. Explore work that will allow you to make decisions on your own.
Recognition
If Recognition is your highest work value, explore jobs with good possibilities foradvancement. Look for work with prestige or with the potential for leadership.
Relationships
If Relationships is your highest work value, look for jobs where your co-workers arefriendly. Look for work that lets you be of service to others. Explore jobs that do notmake you do anything that goes against your sense of right and wrong.
SupportIf Support is your highest work value, look for jobs where the company stands behind
its workers and the workers are comfortable with management’s style of supervision.
Explore work with a reputation for competent, considerate, and fair management.
Working Conditions
If Working Conditions is your highest work value, consider pay, job security, and goodworking conditions when looking at jobs. Some people like to be busy all the time,
work alone, or have many different things to do. Explore jobs where you can take best
advantage of your work style.

Step 4: Use Your Scores to Identify Occupations•

Now that you have identified your important work values and have read the associateddescriptions, you are ready to find the occupations that are linked with your work values.

•

To help you identify occupations that you will likely find satisfying, the O*NET Work Importance
Locator tool provides six occupational lists, one for each of the six work values areas (refer to the
Appendix 7). Each list shows the occupations that link best with that work value.
40

DOL Career and Credential Exploration•

Participant Guide

You will notice that each of the lists of occupations is divided into five job zones. Each job zone
contains occupations that require a similar level of education, training, and/or experience (See the
Appendix for detailed descriptions of each job zone.).

•Copy your two highest work values from this activity here:

Highest Work Value: ______________________________________________________
Next Highest Work Value: __________________________________________________
To look at occupations linked with your highest work value, locate the section for your highest work value
in the Appendix 7.
List some career options from these results that you might like to explore further.
1._________________________________

2.____________________________________

3.________________________________

4.____________________________________You have now identified potential careers based on all three areas under consideration: interests,
aptitudes, and values. It’s time to tie all this together and use this information to find your career “sweet
spot.”

41

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

3.10 Status Check
As you put all the pieces together and review your results from all assessments, look for common themes.
Are there certain careers that appear on all assessment recommendations? Do you find yourself gravitating
towards careers in one job zone more than the others?
You may find that your assessment results are consistent with what you know about yourself and validate
the plans that you already had in place when you first started this course. If that is the case, you should feel
confident that you are on the right track.
You may, on the other hand, be surprised by your assessment results. The recommendations may haveopened your eyes to occupations you had not previously considered. If so, now is a great time to explore
something new and decide if you want to make a change. Previous work experiences or organizational
demands do not have to define your future.
It is important to recognize that once you complete your military contract, there are no rules in place that
dictate what path you must pursue. You are not bound by your enlisted or officer status, your current levelof education, or your role in the field or at a desk.
Whatever path you choose, seek the opportunities to include your interests, leverage your aptitudes, andalign with your values to find the “sweet spot.”

3.11 Activity: Putting the Pieces Together
This activity will help you put all your assessment results together to select a career option.

Step
1.

ActionTake the occupations you selected from your three assessments and record it on the “Putting thePieces Together” worksheet.

2.

Record your RIASEC codes, 3 highest interest areas and aptitude areas, and 2 highest workvalues.

3.

Observe your list of occupations from your assessments and see if there are any overlapping
occupations.

42

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

PUTTING THE PIECES TOGETHER
It’s time for you to put all the information together to form a career action plan.

O*Net Interest Profiler-What are some careers that match those interests that you’dWhat are your RIASEC Codes?

like to explore?
1.

2.

3.

4.

What are your 3 highest Interest Areas
in Career Scope?

Career Scope-What are some careers that match your interests and aptitudes that you’d
like to explore?
1.

2.

3.

4.

Work Importance Locator-What are some careers that match your values that you’dWhat are your 3 highest Aptitude
Areas in Career Scope?

like to explore?
1.

2.

3.

4.

What are your 2 highest work values?

Occupational Research

Conduct a market labor search for each of your three occupations and then selectyour career goal

Job Title

1.

2.

Salary median
Salary range
Employment
Projected growth
Projected job openings
Education to get started
Interests
Work values
Career goal

43

3.

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

4
Labor Market Research

44

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Section 4:

Participant Guide

Labor Market Research

Until now, the focus has been inward, discovering how your personal strengths, interests and values alignwith various jobs. You have viewed your assessment results and identified several potential career options.
It is time to focus outward, to consider external factors that may influence your career decisions now and,in the years, ahead. External factors include location, industry trends, education required for entry or
progression in the career field, salary, and growth potential. In this section, you will research the labormarket to see if pursuing the occupations, you identified in Section 3 will support your long-term goals.

4.1

External factors

External factors can make a big difference in planning your career goals. Neglecting to consider the external
factors in your career decision making process would be a waste of your time. For example, if yourassessment results point you to marine architecture and you are planning to relocate to Montana, you
won’t find any job opportunities in that field. You must either reevaluate where you will relocate orreevaluate your career choice. In this section, you will look at the external factors and evaluate your careerdecision that will support your long-term goals.
These are the questions you need to ask when considering your career options.
•

Location: Is there a high demand or job available in my area?

•

Industry: Is this career in an industry that is growing?

•

Education: Do I have the skills or education to start working in the career or do I need to get moretraining?

•

Salary: Is the salary enough to support me and my family?

•

Growth potential: Does this career have growth potential for promotion?

Location

Industry

Education

SalaryGrowth Potential

Assessments

45

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

4.2

Participant Guide

Occupational Research

Occupational research can help you decide if the career you selected would be good fit for you. It will
provide you with detailed information about knowledge, skills, abilities, job outlook, compensation,
certification, and education as it relates to your selected occupations. Your research will give you a clearer
picture of the nature of the work, how it aligns with your goals, and what kind of training you may need topursue as you transition from the military.
In the following activity you will conduct occupational research on the three occupations you selected in
section 3. Refer to your “Putting the Pieces Together” worksheet and fill in the Occupational Researchsection.

4.3

Activity: O*Net Summary Report

The O*Net summary report includes work activity descriptions, typical education requirements, wages andcompensation, growth rates, and more. This level of detail can help you narrow down the occupations you
have already identified.
Step

Action1

Go to www.onetonline.org

2Type your occupation into the Occupation Search box.

46

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

3

Select your desired occupation from the list.

4

View the summary report for your occupation.

5

Record your answers in your “Putting the Pieces Together” worksheet.

6

Conduct occupational research for the other occupations and record your answers on your worksheet.

7

Review and elevate your career options and select the best career for you.

47

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

4.4

Participant Guide

Getting Help at the American Job Center (AJC)

You can gather a lot of information on websites, but there is no substitutefor connecting in-person with industry leaders, employers, fellow job
seekers, and local labor market experts. American Job Centers (AJC) servenearly one million Veterans each year.
There are more than 2,400 AJC locations nationwide. You should connect
with the AJC in your local or desired working area to receive direct accessto local employers and local labor market information, as well as access to free technology courses andlocal, state, and federal programs that may help you.

4.5

Activity: Access the AJC Online

Step

Action1

Access your AJC online at www.veterans.gov/

2

Click Find a Job.

3

Click Get One-on-One Assistance.

4

Type in your city, state or zip code into the Location box and click Search.

48

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Notes

49

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

5
Exploring Training
Opportunities

50

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Section 5:

Participant Guide

Exploring Training Opportunities

Now that you have gained more information about the vocational training and selected a career you areinterested in; it is time to take a closer look at the training opportunities that are available to you.
In this section, you will learn about different types of civilian credentials and opportunities to improve yourskills, prepare for civilian jobs, and enhance your career outlook. You will consider these options withregard to learning environment, length of program, and costs. Finally, you will learn about the programs
that are available to help you achieve your credentialing goals. This information will enable you to evaluate
which opportunities may be best for you and your individual situation.

5.1

Why Are Credentials Important?

Credentials are important because they let your employer and your customers know that you have theknowledge and skills to perform your job. Credentials are college degrees, apprenticeships, certifications,and licenses. The value of credentials to employers, workers, and society at large cannot be overstated.
For employers, credentials demonstrate and document skills. Recruiting employees with credentials
increases the organization’s ability to meet resource and skill requirements.
For employees, credentials provide marketable skills which can lead to higher earnings, greater mobility,and enhanced job security.
For society, credentials give the community peace of mind. Areas with many credentialed employees canattract more businesses which in turn may create more job opportunities for local workers.
Other reasons why credentials are important:•

They may be required by law or by an employer forentry into employment.

•

They demonstrate to civilian employers that thetraining and skills achieved in the military are on
par with those gained through traditional civilian
pathways.

•

They ensure that credentialed employees share acommon understanding of the best practices fortheir industry.

•

They can lead to higher pay or promotion.

51

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

5.2

Participant Guide

Common Types of Credentials

The term “credential” refers to verification of an individual’s qualifications or competence by a recognizedthird-party authority. Many different types of credentials are offered or awarded by various types oforganizations (such as an industry-recognized association or accredited educational institution).
Some examples of common credentials are occupational licenses, professional certifications, educational
degrees, and certificates.
Occupational License

An occupational license is mandatory for many professions. It is typically granted by afederal, state, or local government agency, and is intended to set professional standards andensure safety and quality of work. It is often required in addition to other credentials.
Examples of occupations that require licenses are electricians, plumbers, real estate brokers,
massage therapists, nurses, and lawyers.
If an occupation is licensed, you must have the license in order to attain employment. It is
important to note that some states recognize licenses from other states, but some do not. If
you are pursuing an occupation that requires a license, think about where you plan to workand research licensing requirements for the state in which you plan to live.

Professional Certification

A professional certification can be voluntary or mandatory and is a credential that is issued
by a certifying body, such as an association (for example, the National Commission for
Certification of Crane Operators) or a private sector company. It validates that an individual
has passed an examination process and demonstrates that he or she has the required
knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform a specific job. The examination can be written,
oral, or performance based.
Like licensure, certification is a time-limited credential that may be renewed through arecertification process, which may require additional professional development courses,
experience, exams, or fees.
Some state licensure boards, and some employers may require one or more certifications fora career field. Earning additional certifications, even if not mandatory, may make you a morecompetitive candidate and may increase your salary.

Educational Degree

The terms most used for educational credentials are diploma or degree. Academic credit
hours are the building blocks of these educational credentials. These degrees, which are
granted by institutions of higher learning, include an associate degree (two-year) or
bachelor’s degree (four-year) as well as other graduate and professional degrees that require
education beyond the undergraduate level.

52

DOL Career and Credential Exploration
Certificate

Participant Guide

Do not confuse certificates with certification. When you receive a certificate, it is for course
completion and not necessarily for demonstrating knowledge or competence. Many
certificates require less than a year to complete, and some can be completed in a matter ofdays or weeks. For instance, you could receive a Traffic Flagger certificate for a one-day classor a Computer-aided Drafting and Design certificate for a program consisting of sevencourses over nine months.
You can receive a skill or educational certificate after attending a training course, but you are
not certified in the subject unless you go through a process of testing and apply for thecertification.
Certificates can, however, document that you have taken steps to stay current in your fieldof work and make you more marketable. In addition, certificates can help you during thelicense or certification renewal process because you will have documented continuing
education units, hours, or points. The length of time it takes to obtain the certificate and theprestige of the organization that awards it can have an impact on how valuable it is in thelabor market.

5.3

Activity: Identify Qualifications and Requirements

Identifying the required credentials and training for your career of choice will assist you in becoming a moremarketable candidate in the job market. The best way to identify the required training and credentials foryour career of choice is to conduct a job search. The job search will give you an accurate picture of what
employers are looking for. Choose one of the occupations you selected in the previous activity to identify
the credentials and training required to qualify for the job.
Step

Action1

Use an online job search engine to enter one or two job titles or keywords and a location to generate alist of open positions for the area in which you want to work. Here are some resources to get you
started:•https://usnlx.com/•

www.careeronestop.org/JobSearch/job-search.aspx•

www.usajobs.gov/•

www.veterans.gov/

The National Labor Exchange (NLx) can help you find legitimate job openings in your area invetted public, private, and nonprofit sector organizations.
CareerOneStop is a great resource for career exploration, training, and jobs.
USAJOBS is the main job listing site for federal job vacancy announcements.
The Veterans.gov, a Department of Labor website, provides the employment resources youneed, including military spouse information, individual state resources, and more.

2

Click on a position to see the job description, qualifications—both required and preferred.

3

Record your findings in the table on the next page.

53

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Position:
Certification(s):License(s):Degree(s):Certificate(s):Status Check:

Am I ready to apply for the job?

Do I still require training or experience before applying for thejob?

Am I ready to apply for the job?

Do I still require training or experience before applying for thejob?

Position:
Certification(s):License(s):Degree(s):Certificate(s):Status Check:54

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

5.4

Participant Guide

Ways to Gain Credentials

There are numerous ways to earn credentials. It is important to find training opportunities that fit with yourlifestyle, learning preferences, and goals.

Study and Learn

Earn and Learn

Earn and Learn
Training is incorporated into the normal work activities.
•

Registered Apprenticeships•

Two-year Community and Technical CollegesoOffer paid salary, practical training, andnational industry certificationoOffer associate degrees and formal
certificate programsoTypically, last between one to six years (average
length: four years)o

Vary widely in length by program of studyoInclude on-the-job training and relatedclassroom instruction.

o•Study and Learn
Training occurs at a higher education institution.

•

Career, Technical, Vocational, or Trade SchoolsoOffer specific career training andcertificatesoTypically, last no more than two years

Some programs include earning college credit.

On-the-job Training•

Four-year Colleges and UniversitiesoOffer paid salary and skill-building directly
relevant to a joboOffer many certifications and degree
programso

Vary widely in length, structure, and qualityo

Vary widely by length and complexity

55

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

EARN AND LEARN: Registered Apprenticeship Program
The Registered Apprenticeship program is an earn-and-learn training model thatprovides a unique, flexible combination of structured learning and on-the-job
training under the guidance of an assigned mentor. Related instruction, technicaltraining, or other certified training is provided by apprenticeship training centers,
technical schools, community colleges, and/or institutions via distance andcomputer-based learning approaches. It is an immediate job; apprentices earn apaycheck from day one.
The Registered Apprenticeship system represents the ideal opportunity forworkers who are seeking high-skilled jobs that pay well and employers who are looking to build a qualified
workforce. In this way, apprenticeships effectively meet the needs of both employers and workers.
Registered Apprenticeships are highly active in traditional industries, such as construction andmanufacturing, and are also instrumental in delivering training and development interventions that prepare
workers for roles in emerging industries such as healthcare, energy, information technology, advanced
manufacturing, and homeland security. Programs are available in over 1,000 occupations, including able
seaman, construction craft trades, elevator installer, dental assistant, and law enforcement agent.
The Registered Apprenticeship program is sponsored by an individual business or an employer associationand may collaborate with a labor organization through a collective bargaining agreement. Upon finishing
the training program, an apprentice earns a Completion of Registered Apprenticeship certificate, anindustry-issued, nationally recognized credential that validates proficiency in an occupation. To findapprenticeships within the Registered Apprenticeship program visit apprenticeship.gov/.
Those pursuing apprenticeships may be eligible for additional GI Bill benefits, including monthly housing
allowance (on top of your hourly wages from your employer) and a stipend for books and supplies. The
housing allowance is paid at a rate that decreases over time as your hourly apprenticeship wages increase.
You’ll want to contact the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to see how to use your GI Bill benefits forapprenticeships.
For specific information for military members and Veterans, you can visit
www.apprenticeship.gov/service-members-and-veterans to learn more about this unique and rewarding
pathway to developing workplace and technical skills.

5.5

Activity: Apprenticeship.gov

The Apprenticeship.gov website is full of helpful information about various apprenticeship programs andresources that can help you obtain an apprenticeship. The website contains a list of DOL-registeredapprenticeship programs, which are apprenticeship programs that have been reviewed by the DOL toensure the quality of the program.
Step
1

ActionGo to http://www.apprenticeship.gov/

56

DOL Career and Credential Exploration
2

Participant Guide

Select the Career Seekers drop down
menu.

3

Select the Find an Apprenticeship option.

4

Type in the occupation,company name, or keyword
and location to search forapprenticeship opportunity.
And Select Search.

5

Select Program Type.
And then Select Registered Programs.

6

Scroll down the list and Select a
Registered Apprenticeship tolearn more about it.

57

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Factors to consider:•

A Registered Apprenticeship is an immediate job. Apprentices start working from day one, andthere are incremental wage increases as skill levels improve.

•

Apprenticeships range from one to six years, but the majority are four years in length.

•

Upon completion of a Registered Apprenticeship program, participants receive an industryrecognized, nationally issued (from the U.S. Department of Labor) credential that certifies
occupational proficiency and is transferrable.

•

The average starting salary for those who have successfully completed apprenticeships is $70,000
per year according to Apprenticeship.gov.

•

Training is occupation-focused, hands-on, and immediately applicable.

•

Agreements between certain apprenticeship training programs and two- and four-year colleges
create opportunities for college credit and future degrees.

EARN AND LEARN: On-the-Job Training
On-the-job training (OJT) focuses on gaining skills while working on the job. Through OJT, workers acquire
both general skills that they can transfer from one job to another and specific skills that are unique to a job.
OJT typically includes oral and written instruction, demonstration and observation, and hands-on practice.
In these programs, employers often provide structured hands-on experience and peer or supervisor
mentoring and training before the trainee assumes the responsibilities of the job. OJT programs may takeas little as one day of informal training or span several weeks or months of formal training and employermandated testing for program completion.

Factors to consider:•OJT will provide you with a paid job while you learn your position and what the employer expects
from an experienced employee.

•

Common OJT programs include a combination of hands-on practical and formal training.

•

OJT is performed in the work area, so training focuses on real job tasks that you can use
immediately in your position.

•

The quality of the OJT is dependent on how developed the training materials are and the extent of
the mentor’s communication and training skills.

•

OJT is often the most practical training method that is used to train one or a very small number of
employees; as such, it may facilitate more opportunities for individual questions that can beaddressed.

58

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

STUDY AND LEARN: Community and Technical Colleges
Community colleges—also known as technical colleges in some states—
are publicly funded institutions focused on the local community andcommitted to responding to its changing workforce needs. Today’scomprehensive community colleges are both principal providers ofacademic instruction and major providers of vocational education
training programs.
Community colleges have long granted associate degrees that typicallytake two years of full-time study to complete. These programs offer
students the traditional college-level courses that lead to an associatedegree and prepare students for further study toward a bachelor’s degree. They also offer technical or
vocationally oriented associate degrees that directly prepare students for careers.
Increasingly, however, community colleges provide another option: short-term career training throughvocationally oriented courses that lead to a certificate in less than two years. This expanded service has
increased the extent to which community colleges can serve the needs of local businesses, workers, andcommunities. Students of any age can participate in these relatively inexpensive, convenient, and flexible
workforce training courses to advance their careers. Community colleges partner with local businesses andworkforce development agencies to ensure programs meet local labor market needs.

Factors to consider:•

Generally, all students are accepted, regardless of past academic performance.

•

Tuition is often lower at publicly funded community colleges than career schools or other private
educational institutions, although it does not include books and other required supplies.

•

Community colleges typically operate on traditional semester or quarter schedules.

•

Class schedules are often flexible to fit the lifestyles of working students and students with families.

•

Courses may be lecture-based, hands-on, online, or delivered via a hybrid of these formats.

•

There are many programs to choose from that can either lead you directly into a career or help you
transfer to a higher-level college or university program. Individual institutions can accept transfer
credit at their discretion. A Joint Services Transcript will be required.

Resources about colleges can be found here:•

https://www.careeronestop.org/FindTraining/Types/college.aspx
CareerOneStop is a guide to college degrees. From here, you can use links to find local college
programs, learn how to prepare for college, and assess school affordability and value using theCollege Scorecard.

•

https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
The College Navigator tool from the National Center for Educational Statistics allows you to search
and access detailed information about more than 7,000 post-secondary institutions.

•

https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/docs/factsheets/Choosing_a_School.pdf
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ guide to choosing a school.
59

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

STUDY AND LEARN: Career Technical Schools
Career technical schools offer focused education and specialized preparation for employment throughcourses and programs that teach the specific knowledge and skills associated with jobs. The first technicalcolleges offered degrees and certificates in subjects such as computer hardware maintenance andelectronics, construction trades, nursing, and criminal justice. Now, they include a wider array of fields
including culinary arts, bartending, travel, real estate, healthcare, and graphic design.
Program time frames vary from a few months to two years, depending on the program type and course
load. Learning is hands-on; students immediately use what they learn. Students receive a certificate uponcompletion of the required coursework and training.
Attending a career technical school can be an option if you have already identified your ideal career andwant to get started quickly.
Factors to consider:•

Most technical school programs are flexible, offer classes year-round, and have frequent session
start dates to allow rapid entry into the workforce.

•

The specialized programs prepare students for certifications in a specific trade or industry.

•

Tuition may be more expensive than other options but may include everything a student will needthroughout the length of the program—books, miscellaneous fees, laboratory tools, and othernecessary supplies.

•

Most instructors have professional experience and are highly skilled in what they teach.

•

Learning is hands-on and often includes job shadowing, externships, and other real-world
experiences.

•

Credits are typically not transferable to other technical, community, or four-year colleges.

Resources about career technical schools can be found at the following sites:•

https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0241-choosing-vocational-school
Federal Trade Commission advice on choosing a vocational school.

•https://www.va.gov/education/choosing-a-school/
Department of Veterans Affairs WEAMS Institution Search—Find VA-approved non-degree schools
or certificate programs.

60

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

STUDY AND LEARN: Four-year Colleges and Universities
Institutions of higher learning (degree-granting colleges and universities) may offer longer, more in-depth
programs of study lasting four years or more. Programs vary from undergraduate- to graduate-level study
and may be classroom-based, online, or a hybrid of the two. Because these programs are longer, there isoften time for exploration and general liberal arts foundational learning before students focus on aparticular area of study.
A four-year university is one avenue that is worth exploring depending on your aspirations. This can be agreat option for those who know they want, or need, to pursue a degree to achieve their career goals.
Factors to consider:•

Admission requirements may be rigorous and include components such as transcripts, minimum
test scores, writing samples, and personal references.

•

Tuition may be more expensive than community colleges and usually does not include books andsupplies. Publicly funded colleges and universities (or state schools) often have lower tuition fees
than private institutions.

•Classes may be lecture-based, hands-on, online, or delivered via a hybrid format. Studio time,
research, or internships may be offered or required as part of different degree programs.

•

Schedules and courses vary widely depending on the program and degree requirements; degrees
may or may not lead directly to a job or a career. For example, graduating with a degree in English
does not automatically qualify you to work as an English teacher.

•

Individual institutions accept transfer credits at their own discretion. The Joint Services Transcript
will be required to determine if any of your previous education or military training will be accepted
for credit.

•

Higher education involves a significant investment of time and money but can lead to higher paying
jobs. Consider the return on your investment based on the major and typical wages for related
careers.

For more guidance on exploring this option and choosing a program that is right for you, contact yourmilitary installation’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) team to find out how to enroll in the two-day
Education Workshop module called Managing Your Education. You may also find more information at the
Department of Defense Transition Assistance Program virtual curriculum at www.TAPevents.org.

5.6

Activity: Identify Training and Credentials Opportunity

Now that you have identified the required qualifications for your career of choice, it is important toresearch what training and credentials opportunities are available for you. Choose one of the credentials
you researched in the last activity.
Step

Action1

Go to https://www.careeronestop.org/

2

Click the “Find Training” drop-down menu.

61

DOL Career and Credential Exploration
3

Participant Guide

Click the “Types of Training” heading to explore the specific types of credentials that are relevant toyour career of interest.

4

Record the education, training, apprenticeship, or experience you will need to obtain these
credentials. How much time will you need to invest to complete these requirements?

Education/Training/Apprenticeship/Experience

62

Time Required

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

5.7

Participant Guide

Gaining More Skills Before Transition

There are a number of other ways to gain experience that may help you develop your skills and either
qualify you for a job or help you to earn a credential. You may also be able to leverage your experiences in
active-duty military service to achieve these goals.
United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP)Did you participate in USMAP while on active duty? The United Services Military
Apprenticeship Program (USMAP) is a formal military training program that provides
active-duty Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Army Service Members with theopportunity to improve their job skills and complete their civilian apprenticeshiprequirements while on active duty. The DOL provides the nationally recognized
Certificate of Completion upon program completion.
This certificate can provide you with a definite advantage and help you secure better
civilian jobs, as employers know the value of apprenticeships.
If you haven’t enrolled in USMAP, you may be missing out on recognition and certification of hours trained
and worked. By completing an apprenticeship program through USMAP, you can save time and money inthe long term.
If you have not participated in USMAP and want to, you can select an apprenticeship through USMAP
according to your rating or military occupational specialty and current assignment. Based on theapprenticeship selected, you must complete a defined number of work hours in the subcategories specificto that apprenticeship.
Factors to consider:•

You are not allowed to enroll in two trades – you can ONLY enroll into one trade at a time.

•

You are not allowed to back date hours - The Department of Labor does not allow back dating; you
can only log hours from your log start date forward.

•

You are not allowed to enroll in a trade when you have less than 1 year on your enlistment
contract.

•

You are not allowed to transfer hours from one trade to another. Each trade has its own Work
Processes Schedule (WPS).

Information about USMAP can be found here:•

https://usmap.netc.navy.mil/usmapss/static/index.htm
USMAP provides information on identifying and applying for apprenticeships related to military
experience.

63

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

5.8

Participant Guide

Activity: United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP)

Step

Action1

Go to https://usmap.netc.navy.mil/usmapss/static/index.htm

2

Click on the “overview” to get an overview of the program.

DoD SkillBridge https://dodskillbridge.usalearning.gov
The DoD SkillBridge can provide you with an excellent opportunity to use the last 180 days of service towork and learn with their industry partners. During SkillBridge participation you continue to receive militarycompensation and you are covered by your military benefits. SkillBridge connects you with industry
partners in real-world job experiences. Some SkillBridge programs lead directly into a registeredapprenticeship program or are connected with one. Participation often leads to employment offers.
You may be eligible to participate in SkillBridge if you:•

Have 180 days of service or fewer remaining prior to your date of separation and you have at least
180 continuous days of active service•

Obtain approval from your unit commander•

Agree that participation in SkillBridge can be terminated at any time by the Service if mission
requirements dictate

SkillBridge provides an overview of program requirements and eligibility—For details about the specificprograms/positions that are available at your installation, contact your local Transition Services office.

64

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL)
Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) helps Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard
Service Members find information on certifications and licenses related to their jobs. COOL can provide
background information on civilian credentials related to a military occupational specialty and identify any
potential gaps between military experience and the training/experience required to earn a civilian
credential. COOL can also identify potential resources to help Service Members fill the identified gaps.
Spend a little time getting acquainted with COOL and credentialing using the main navigation links at the
top of the page. Then, dive into your occupation-specific information using the "Find and Select Related
Credentials" information accessible from the tab in the left margin of every page.
•

•

5.9

U.S. Army credentialing sitewww.cool.osd.mil/army/index.htm•

U.S. Marine Corps credentialing sitewww.cool.navy.mil/usmc/

www.armyignited.com/app/•

U.S. Air Force credentialing site
https://afvec.us.af.mil/afvec/Public/COOL/

Department of the Navy credentialingsite www.cool.navy.mil/usn/•

Coast Guard credentialing sitewww.cool.osd.mil/uscg/

Activity: Using COOL

Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) can help you find information on certifications and licenses
related to your jobs.
Step

Action1
2

Go to your service branch link to access information on certification and licenses.
Go to “Find and Select Related Credentials.”

3
4

Locate your occupation code.
Click Go.

65

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

5.10 Funding Your Training and Education
Between the Managing My Education Track and this track, you now understand some of the different
training options available to you. You should think about how these options will impact your budget andlifestyle once you leave military service. Whether you choose an “earn and learn” option that pays you awage from day one, a “study and learn” path where you may or may not be employed while attending
school, or a short-term certification or testing process, you should understand the many funding options
available to you.
The U.S. Department of Education•

https://studentaid.gov/resources/prepare-for-college/students/choosing-schools/
U.S. Department of Education information on funding your education.

GI Bill Overview
Since many of you have earned GI Bill benefits through your service, you should also understand how the GI
Bill can help you pursue your credentialing, apprenticeship, or training goals. The GI Bill is not just fortraditional college degrees. For more information on GI Bill specifics, please visit
https://benefits.va.gov/benefits•www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/post-9-11/
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs summary of GI Bill programs—Click on any of the “types oftraining” from the list to see details on benefits, eligibility, and links to payment rates.

The GI Bill programs can be used for many types of training, including:•Apprenticeships•

Vocational/technical training (non-college degree programs)•

Institutions of higher learning (undergraduate and graduate degrees)•

Licensing and certification reimbursement•

National testing reimbursement•

On-the-job training•

Independent and distance learning•

Entrepreneurship training

66

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Institutions of Higher Learning and Vocational/Technical Training
In some instances, such as degree-granting colleges and universities and educational certificate or college
degree programs, benefits may cover all or a portion of your program expenses and include a monthly
housing allowance (MHA) and funds to offset the cost of books and supplies.
In other cases, such as licensing or certification testing, you may receive a check to reimburse you for someor all your testing costs; however, benefits may not include additional money for living expenses.
•

www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/how-to-use-benefits/undergraduate-graduateprograms/
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs GI Bill information for degree-granting institutions.

•www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/how-to-use-benefits/non-college-degreeprograms/
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs GI Bill information for vocational/technical training.

Apprenticeship and OJTThose pursuing on-the-job training or apprenticeships may be eligible for additional GI Bill benefits,
including monthly housing allowance (on top of your hourly wages from your employer) and a stipend forbooks and supplies. The housing allowance is paid at a rate that decreases over time as your hourly
apprenticeship wages increase.
•www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/how-to-use-benefits/on-the-job-trainingapprenticeships/
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs GI Bill benefits for apprenticeships or OJT.

Licensing and Certification
The VA may reimburse those pursuing the professional license or certification required for their career fieldof up to $2,000 toward the cost of the exam.
www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/how-to-use-benefits/test-fees/
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs GI Bill benefits for licensing and certification.

67

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) (Formerly known as Vocational Rehabilitation and
Employment)
For some Service Members, another path to training may involve utilizing Veteran Readiness &Employment (VR&E). VR&E provides no-cost assistance to eligible Service Members and Veterans withservice-connected disabilities to enable them to prepare for, obtain, and maintain suitable employment or
achieve independence in daily living. VR&E may include many resources, such as education, retraining,
tools, and career counseling.
Veterans must have at least a 10% service-connected disability and have received an honorable or generaldischarge. If you have questions about VR&E, please consult with your VA Benefits Advisor.
•

www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab/index.asp
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs information about VR&E.

VA Work Study Program
If you're a full-time or 3/4-time student of a college degree, vocational, or professional program, you can“earn while you learn” with a VA work-study allowance. For student Veterans looking for part-time
employment while collecting VA benefits, this program offers an opportunity to work at a college’s
Veterans office, a VA medical facility, a VA regional office, or an approved state employment office. Activeduty military personnel are not eligible for this program.
•

www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/how-to-use-benefits/work-study/
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs explanation of the work-study program.

Yellow Ribbon Program
Some students may be interested in attending private colleges or universities that leverage tuition and feesthat exceed the maximum amount of the Post-9/11 GI Bill benefit. These institutions may participate in the
Yellow Ribbon Program, which could significantly offset any or all out-of-pocket expenses you encounter as
you earn your degree. To find out more about the Yellow Ribbon Program and to verify if your school takes
part, please visit the VA website.
•www.va.gov/education/about-gi-bill-benefits/post-9-11/yellow-ribbon-program/
Department of Veterans Affairs information about the Yellow Ribbon program, including links to
see which schools participate and current payment rates.

Explore Funding with the GI Bill Comparison Tool
The GI Bill Comparison Tool is a useful resource to learn about education programs and compare benefits
by school. You can use it to learn more about programs and see how various factors may impact or eveneliminate your out-of-pocket expenses as you pursue training or education.
Before you commit to any educational program, you should become familiar with this tool.

68

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

5.11 Activity: GI Bill Comparison Tool
Learn about education programs and compare benefits by school.
Step
1

ActionGo to https://www.vets.gov/gi-bill-comparison-tool

2

Fill out the information that you want to search for.

3

Click Search Schools.

4

Review the overview of schools.
Note: You can see your eligibility for tuition, housing, and books. Pay attention to schools with a“Caution” sign.

5

Click View Details for more information.

69

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

6

Review the benefits estimate.

7

Go further down the page to see complaints or alerts for the school.

8

Go further down the page to look at the school’s accreditation.

70

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

5.12 Factors to Consider When Seeking Vocational Training
Due diligence is the process of evaluating a prospective financial decision by getting as muchinformation about it as possible. The process involves careful examination, such as reading the fine print
and interviewing customers, management, and leaders. The goal is to make sure there are no hidden
drawbacks or traps associated with an option you are considering.
Selecting the right school and program also requires exercising due diligence before sharing too muchinformation or making any financial commitments. There are predatory institutions and commercial
sites that will attempt to recruit you rather than provide impartial information. Sometimes their goal is
to gain personal information so they can continue to pursue you or collect your GI Bill benefits without
providing a legitimate service.
Until you have fully verified the credentials of a school, do not share your Social Security number, dateof birth, information about your spouse/partner or parents, phone number, or address with any
institution.

1. Accreditation
An important way to evaluate institutions or programs is to look for accreditation. Accrediting
agencies are independent private educational or professional associations of regional or
national scope. They develop standardized evaluation criteria and conduct peer evaluations toassess whether those criteria are met. Accreditation validates that the training or education
offered by an institution meets acceptable quality levels.
It is expected that students will complete an accredited program to qualify for professional
licensure once they graduate. Vocational schools are typically accredited by an organization
which has been approved by the Department of Education as an accrediting agency. Thoroughly
research the accreditation of the school you want to attend to ensure the program has theproper accreditation. Lack of proper accreditation can lead to the inability to take the examneeded for licensure.
•

ope.ed.gov/dapip/#/home
U.S. Department of Education website to search for accreditation by institution name.

•www.chea.org/chea-and-usde-recognized-accrediting-organization
Council for Higher Education Accreditation and U.S. Department of Education list ofrecognized accrediting organizations.

71

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

2. Admission and Completion Rates
It is important to check the school’s level of success by researching the school’s admission andcompletion rates. Low admission rates indicate that the program is selective, while highgraduation rates indicate the success of their programs.
•

www.accreditedschoolsonline.org/vocational-trade-school/
Accredited online website to search for vocational school admission and completion
rates.

3. Tuition and Fees
If you do not perform your due diligence when it comes to tuition and fees, you may end up
buying something you didn’t bargain for. You should inquire not only about the tuition and fees,
but additional costs for technology resources and equipment requirements. It can also be
helpful to find out about different payment plans or options available and when tuition and fees
are due. Be sure to visit the school’s website. If the tuition and fees are not easily found, thismay be a red flag for the school.
4. Admission Requirements
The admissions process is different for every program and school; you should research thevarious requirements of a given school before applying to ascertain if there are any specificprerequisites in terms of work experience, education, or standardized test scores. These
admission requirements may delay the start date or lengthen the training program.

5.13 Red Flags to Avoid When Seeking Vocational Training
Below are some red flags to avoid when you are researching a training program.
1. High Job Placement Rate
Be careful of vocational programs that sell the
success of their former students, publicize
high job placement rates, and list the salarypotential for graduates of each program.
Review this information carefully and confirm
each point independently. In some cases,
former students may obtain jobs outside theirfields or may even have inflated their salaryon surveys. Ask the college if you may reachout to the former students to gain theirperspective on the program.

72

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

2. Lack of Qualified Instructors
Instructors and faculty play an important factor in the success of the training program. You
should inquire about the program’s instructors and faculty to verify that they have academic
and professional experience in the area of study. Check to see if they hold licenses andcertifications. If possible, visit a class to get a feel for the quality of instruction.
3. High Program Complaints
Before applying, you should check for complaints that have been filed against the school. Check
the Attorney General’s office in the state where you live, as well as the state where the school isbased, and the state department of education for complains. Also, check the Better Business
Bureau and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to research complaints that have been
filed against the institution or school.
•www.bbb.org/
Better Business Bureau website to search for complaints against the institution or
school.

•www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint/
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau website to search for complaints against theinstitution or school.

Here are some questions to consider as you perform due diligence:•

Is the school or program accredited? If so, by what organization?

•

Does the school readily share job placement rates for the
program you are considering? Are graduates finding jobs in theirfield of study?

•

Are admission requirements clear or unclear? Are they missingor lax?

•Is there a specific point of contact that you can reach by phone
and/or email to answer any program questions you have?

Additional resources that can assist with research:•

www2.ed.gov/students/prep/college/diplomamills/diploma-mills.html
U.S. Department of Education information about diploma mills.

•

www.va.gov/education/choosing-a-school/
Department of Veterans Affairs WEAMS Institution Search—Provides information for schoolsthat are approved to accept VA benefits.

73

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

5.14 Comparing Programs
You have already identified a desirable occupation and researched the credentials needed to qualify fora specific position. Now it is time to identify which training programs can help you achieve thosecredentials.
As you evaluate the different program options, think about your personal priorities, constraints, andbudgetary needs. Take into consideration the factors examined in Sections 3 and 4 to decide which
program is most relevant and achievable for you.

5.15 Activity: Compare Programs
Step
1

ActionIdentify three programs or schools that support your training goals.

2Complete the Program Comparison Chart on the following pages to conduct a side-by-side
analysis of each option. A sample chart has been provided as a guide.

3

Add any notes that are relevant to your specific situation.

4

Use the resources below to conduct your research. Be sure to use the individual school orprogram websites for specific details.

• www.careeronestop.org/FindTraining/find-training.aspx

CareerOneStop allows you to click on the type of training you are looking for fromthe list, enter keywords and a zip code to find learning opportunities, and follow
any links to individual program sites.

• nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/

The College Navigator tool from the National Center for Educational Statistics
allows you to search and get detailed information about over 7,000 postsecondary institutions, enter search criteria to find program details, and follow
links to school websites for more information.

• www.va.gov/education/choosing-a-school/

The Department of Veterans Affairs WEAMS Institution Search allows you to verify
if your school or program is VA-approved.

74

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Sample Program Comparison Chart
Details

Program 1

Program 2

Program 3

School/Program Name

North County Community
College

Medical Training InstituteLennard Tech, Paramus NJ campus

Desired Credential

Medical billing certificate or
medical coding certificate

Medical administration andbilling/coding certificate

Medical coding and billingcertificate

Length of Program

15 weeks

37 weeks (AM classes)

900 hours (39 weeks daytime or 54
weeks evening)

62 weeks (PM classes)*flexible AM/PM
DOL Registered Apprenticeship

None

None

None

Accreditation

Yes, regional

Yes, ACCSC

Yes

Program format

Mostly online, meetonce/week in person

In person, onsite

Day or evening, blended delivery

Transfer credit policy, if
applicableMay have scholarships forstudents transferring tofour-year college programs;
send JSTNo credit for prior coursework

N/A

VA approved

Yes

Yes

Yes

GI Bill$4,560 tuition$13,745 tuition$14,970 tuition

Monthly Housing Allowance$2,282/month$2,753/month$2,972/month

Books/Supplies

Up to $1,000

Up to $1,000

Up to $1,000

Wages/OJT$2,050/month$2,050/month$2,050/month$1520/ semester$3520/ semester$5120/ semester

Estimated funding

Estimated expenses
Tuition75

DOL Career and Credential Exploration
Details

Participant Guide

Program 1

Program 2

Program 3

Housing$7000/semester$7000/semester$7000/semester

Books/Supplies$450/semester$1450/semester$1750/semester

Application requirements orprerequisites

Fill out online form torequest admissions
assistance

Online application, appt. withrepresentative, HS diploma,
placement testing

Need to fill out form to request
information

Application deadline

???

???

???

Anticipated Program start dateand end date

6 SEP 20XX-19 DEC 20XX

???

???

Contact information

Admissions: Devon Williams
222-333-4450

MTIadmissions@email.edu

Admissions:(POC, phone, email, website)

Jane Smith

Veteran Rep: Jay Watts

844-277-2770

j.watts@email.edu
Notes:

Extremely flexible course
schedule.

On campus Veteransupport group

Caution on GI Bill Comparison Tool.
Need to learn more about why.

97% placement rate

Details

Program 1

Program 2

School/Program Name
Desired Credential

Length of Program

DOL Registered
Apprenticeship
Accreditation
Program format

76

Program 3

DOL Career and Credential Exploration
Details

Participant Guide

Program 1

Program 2

Transfer credit policy, if
applicable
VA approved
Estimated funding
GI BillMonthly Housing Allowance
Books/Supplies
Wages/OJT

Estimated expenses
Tuition
Housing
Books/Supplies
Application requirements orprerequisites

Application Deadline

Anticipated Program start andend date

Contact information (POC,
phone, email, website)

Notes:

77

Program 3

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

5.16 Additional Resources
It is important for you to understand that it is highly likely that you will continue to refine your career
path throughout the transition process and even well into your future. In this section, you will findadditional resources that may prove to be helpful as you pursue your career goal. If you think theywould be useful, consider how you can incorporate them into your plan.
Free or Low-cost Learning Opportunities
In recent years, many public agencies, private sector businesses, and nonprofit organizations have madesignificant investments and public commitments to support our nation’s Veterans in their transition
from military service to civilian careers. These organizations understand that Veterans bring uniquevalue to the workplace but face challenges competing for civilian positions without civilian-recognizedcredentials or experience. To alleviate this disconnect, many partner organizations offer free, low-cost,or accelerated learning opportunities for Veterans.
The wide range of offerings may include accelerated wind turbine technician programs, expeditedroutes to a commercial driver’s license, project management certification courses, entrepreneurshiptraining and support, free online cybersecurity classes at beginner and advanced levels, businessinternships, and partnership with a local mentor in your desired industry or occupation.
Program availability and scope are determined by local, regional, or national partners and vary widely bygeographic location and local labor market conditions. Please contact the transition services office atyour local military installation to find out about the partners and opportunities that are currently
available in your area. You may also gain access to local training, partners, and grant programs bycontacting the American Job Center in your area.
•

www.careeronestop.org/LocalHelp/local-help.aspx
CareerOneStop link for finding your local American Job Center.

DoD Voluntary Education Program
Voluntary Education is a DoD organization that can help you pursue your educational goals and earn adegree or certification. Through various programs, your local education services office or online
education portal have tools and resources required to help you attain your educational goals.
•

www.dantes.doded.mil/
Information about college entrance or placement testing, application procedures, tuition
assistance and financial aid, Troops to Teachers, and counselors who can help you with othereducation-related planning.

Joint Services Transcript (JST)JST provides a description of military schooling and work history in civilian language. It serves as a tool
for academic and career counselors who advise Service Members and Veterans, and it could save youtime and money if your desired program accepts transfer credits. Consult individual institutions fortransfer credit policies. jst.doded.mil/jst/

78

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Massive Open Online Course (MOOC)
Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are free online courses available for anyone to enroll. MOOCs
provide an affordable and flexible way to learn new skills, advance your career, and deliver quality
educational experiences.
These courses often take the form of partnerships between colleges and providers such as edX or
Coursera. Though MOOCs can be free, Coursera and edX offer paid "verified certificates" for successful
completion. Students must pass assessments and prove their identities. Employers can confirm
certificates online.
•

www.coursera.org/
Coursera provides all Veterans with one free verified certificate upon completion of any
Coursera course. Visit the Veteran Employment Center or website to learn how to redeem yourfree credential voucher.

•www.edx.org/
EdX is an open-source platform that provides free online classes.

•

www.linkedin.com/learning
LinkedIn provides a 1-year free subscription to LinkedIn learning for Services members and theirspouses.

Managing Your (MY) Education
Managing Your Education is a workshop for those Service Members who are interested in pursuing
higher education. Participants will learn the vocabulary of higher education, identify a potential careerand degree, explore the factors for choosing a quality institution, research the requirements foradmission, explore funding options, and compare two institutions of higher education. You can attend
this course as a workshop or use the virtual curriculum provided through TAPevents.org.
Transition Assistance Program Online Curriculum – tapevents.org/courses
SBA Boots to Business
The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers the Boots to Business course, which includes two-days of
instruction covering introductory content of entrepreneurship. You will receive information related tothe benefits and challenges of entrepreneurship and the steps required for business ownership. Onceyou have completed Boots to Business, you will understand the initial components of a businessfeasibility plan. Additionally, you will be given the opportunity to enroll in a follow-on entrepreneurshipdevelopment courses that help you conduct market research, complete a business plan, and connect
with a successful business mentor to assist with the business start-up process. This course can becompleted as an in-class workshop or by the virtual curriculum provided through TAPevents.org.
•

www.sba.gov/offices/headquarters/ovbd/resources/160511
The Small Business Administration website has resources for Veterans who want to start theirown businesses.

On-Campus Veterans’ Support
Many campuses have Veterans’ services offices or Veteran centers that can help connect student
Veterans with the resources they need to successfully transition from combat to classroom to79

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

career. This includes help navigating the admissions process, applying for financial aid, using VA
education benefits, getting academic assistance, and ultimately preparing to enter (or re-enter) the
workforce.
The Veterans’ service office should:• Give you referrals to relevant campus or community resources• Provide information on VA benefits• Help you to navigate the campus and its administrative policies• Invite you to workshops and social events throughout the year
• Connect you with other student Veterans on campus

School Certifying Official (SCO)The SCO is the representative at a training institution who serves as a liaison between that school
and the VA. This individual validates your program enrollment status, which is necessary for the VA
to process education benefit payments. Check with each individual school about how to reach the
SCO.
Note: The SCO is not a VA employee. In all VA matters, any final decision should come from VA, notthe school representative.

80

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

6
Designing the Path81

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Section 6:

Participant Guide

Designing the Path

All the preparation you have done to this point—and the work you still need to do—will be morevaluable to you if you organize the information into a formal plan that is supported by concrete goals.
Whether your career of choice entails several weeks or several years of education, training, orapprenticeship, planning can make a huge difference in moving you forward in a productive direction.

6.1

Making a Plan for Success

Everything you have done and will continue to do requires that you begin creating a formal plan. Somepeople may struggle to meet their goals because they neglect to put their ideas into writing. The
following activity will give you a chance to put your plan into action plan

6.2

Activity: Create an Action Plan

Review your notes and research. Consolidate this information on a single page and formalize your plan.
A sample action plan is provided below as a guide.
Career of Choice: Electrician
Long-range Goal (>5 years)

Own and operate an independent electrical contracting business.

Medium-range Goal (1-5 years)

Complete a four-year electrician apprenticeship and obtain journeyman
license.

Short-range Goal (<1 year)

Register for VA education benefits and complete application for
apprenticeship by March 30.

Skills and Credentials
Current

H.S. Diploma, some relevant military training may transfer (see Joint
Services Transcript)

Desired/Required

Electrician apprenticeship certificate and Electrical Contractor, Electrical
Journeyman, or Line Electrician License

Training Program
Training Program

North Alabama Craft Training Foundation Apprenticeship(Length/Dates)(Four years starting in September)

Cost and Funding
Estimated Program Costs$3,000/year (costs covered by program) plus
82

DOL Career and Credential Exploration
Potential Funding

Participant Guide

GI Bill Monthly Housing Allowance (tapering down over time)
Potential GI Bill offset for books
Trainee wages (starting $11.50/hr. ending $25.55/hr.)
Program provides interest-free loans for books*top trainee gets book fees waived

Other Notes

Confirm benefits entitlement and amounts with VA
Confirm health insurance benefits/costs with program

Action Items
Whom do I need to call, write, or I need to set up an appointment with the VA counselor to confirm myvisit?
benefits entitlement.
What do I need more
information about? What am I
unclear about?

I need to know more about the apprenticeship program that would help
me get the electrician apprenticeship certificate.

What specific questions do I
need to ask to get clarifications?

Do I qualify for the USMAP program?

What things must I do next?

Find one person in the field to request informational interview to gain
knowledge about the ins and outs of being an electrician.

Other

Need to contact my local Transition Services Office about my interest in
the DoD SkillBridge program. Need to do this before 6 months out.

83

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Career of Choice: _________________________
Long-Range Goal(>5 years)
Mid-Range Goal
(1-5 years)
Short-Range Goal(<1 year)
Skills and Credentials
Current
Desired/Required
Training Program
Training Program(Length/Dates)
Costs and Funding
Estimated Program Costs

Potential Funding

Other Notes

84

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Action Plan
Whom do I need to call, write,
or visit?
What do I need more
information about? What am I
unclear about?
What specific questions do I
need to ask to getclarifications?
What things must I do next?
Other

85

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

6.3

Participant Guide

Summing It Up

Congratulations! You have taken significant steps toward setting yourself up for success.
 You have learned the foundation of vocational training its Career Clusters and Pathways.
 You have used your results from self-assessments to validate your career choices or identify
potential new occupations.
 You have prepared yourself by identifying which learning opportunities will best facilitate theachievement of your career goals.
 You have written a plan of action.
You are informed, organized, and well on your way to a successful transition into a new and rewarding
career. Combine the information you have gained during this course with information acquired in otherTransition Assistance Program classes to proceed with your plan and achieve your goals.

Enjoy this next stage and proceed with confidence!

86

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

7
Appendix87

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Section 7:
7.1

Participant Guide

Appendix

O*Net Occupational Lists by Work Value

ACHIEVEMENTACHIEVEMENT-JOB ZONE 1 (Little or No Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
53-3011.00 Ambulance Drivers and Attendants,
Except Emergency Medical Technicians***
51-9194.05 Etchers, Hand**45-2093.00 Farmworkers, Farm and Ranch Animals***
45-4011.00 Forest and Conservation Workers
45-2092.02 General Farmworkers***
31-1011.00 Home Health Aides***41-9012.00 Models***

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
51-9123.00 Painting, Coating, and Decorating
Workers**
51-5023.09 Printing Press Machine Operators andTenders**
51-9061.05 Production Inspectors, Testers, Graders,
Sorters, Samplers, Weighers***
51-9141.00 Semiconductor Processors***
53-3033.00 Truck Drivers, Light or Delivery Services***

ACHIEVEMENT-JOB ZONE 2 (Some Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC#
45-2091.00
49-3023.02
47-2031.03
49-9092.00
29-2041.00
51-6092.00
33-2021.01
27-1023.00
33-2011.02
33-2022.00
51-9071.06
39-5091.00
29-2012.00
51-9082.00
49-3052.00

O*NET-SOC Title
Agricultural Equipment Operators
Automotive Specialty Technicians
Carpenter Assemblers and Repairers
Commercial Divers
Emergency Medical Technicians
And Paramedics
Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers
Fire Inspectors
Floral Designers
Forest Fire Fighters
Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention
Specialists
Gem and Diamond Workers
Makeup Artists, Theatrical and
Performance
Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
Medical Appliance Technicians
Motorcycle Mechanics

O*NET-SOC#
33-2011.01
33-9021.00
27-3011.00
41-4011.01
41-4011.03
41-4011.04
41-4012.00

33-3051.03
51-6041.00
27-2042.01
47-2044.00
51-2093.00
33-3052.00

O*NET-SOC Title
Municipal Fire Fighters
Private Detectives and Investigators
Radio and Television Announcers
Sales Representatives, Agricultural
Sales Representatives, Electrical/Electronic
Sales Representatives, MechanicalEquipment and Supplies
Sales Representatives, Wholesale andManufacturing, Except Technical andScientific Products
Sheriffs and Deputy Sheriffs
Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairers
Singers
Tile and Marble Setters
Timing Device Assemblers, Adjusters
and Calibrators
Transit and Railroad Police** Indicates that the occupation was assigned to the group based on its second highest work value.
*** Indicates that the occupation was assigned to the group based on its third highest work value.

88

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

ACHIEVEMENT-JOB ZONE 3 (Medium Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC#
27-2011.00
41-3011.00
49-3011.03
27-2021.00
49-3021.00
49-3023.01
47-2021.00
49-3031.00
51-7011.00
27-3043.03
19-4031.00
17-3011.02
13-1072.00
49-2094.00
47-2111.00
17-3012.01
27-4021.02
51-9131.01
33-3051.01
51-9194.01
27-4021.01
27-3012.00
27-4013.00
49-3043.00

O*NET-SOC Title
ActorsAdvertising Sales Agents
Aircraft Body and Bonded Structure
Repairers
Athletes and Sports Competitors
Automotive Body and Related Repairers
Automotive Master Mechanics
Brickmasons and Blockmasons
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel
Engine Specialists
Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters
Caption Writers
Chemical Technicians
Civil Drafters
Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis
Specialists
Electrical and Electronics Repairers,
Commercial and Industrial Equipment
Electricians
Electronic Drafters
Photographers, ScientificPhotographic Retouchers and Restorers
Police Patrol Officers
Precision Etchers and Engravers, Hand or
MachineProfessional Photographers
Public Address System and Other
Announcers
Radio Operators
Rail Car Repairers

O*NET-SOC#
51-9194.02
13-1041.01
49-3041.00
27-1022.00
39-1021.00
33-3051.02
17-3026.00
13-1031.02
41-3021.00
27-3091.00
17-3031.02
27-1026.00
49-3051.00
25-4013.00
29-2091.00
49-3053.00
47-2031.02
41-4011.02
51-9071.02
27-1013.02
27-4014.00
51-9195.03
49-9063.02
27-2023.00

89

O*NET-SOC Title
Engravers/Carvers
Environmental Compliance Inspectors
Farm Equipment Mechanics
Fashion Designers
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of
Personal Service Workers
Highway Patrol Pilots
Industrial Engineering Technicians
Insurance Adjusters, Examiners, andInvestigators
Insurance Sales AgentsInterpreters and Translators
Mapping Technicians
Merchandise Displayers and Window
Trimmers
Motorboat Mechanics
Museum Technicians and Conservators
Orthotists and Prosthetists
Outdoor Power Equipment and Other
Small Engine Mechanics
Rough Carpenters
Sales Representatives, Chemical andPharmaceutical
Silversmiths
Sketch Artists
Sound Engineering Technicians
Stone Cutters and Carvers
Stringed Instrument Repairers and Tuners
Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports
Officials

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

O*NET-SOC#
25-3011.00

Participant Guide

ACHIEVEMENT-JOB ZONE 4 (Considerable Preparation Needed)

15-1041.00
47-2031.01
27-3043.02
33-3021.03
27-2031.00
29-1031.00
27-3041.00

O*NET-SOC Title
Adult Literacy, Remedial Education and
GED Teachers and Instructors
Advertising and Promotions Managers
Aerospace Engineering and Operations
Technicians
Air Traffic Controllers
Aircraft Engine Specialists
Airframe-and-Power-Plant Mechanics
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
Architects, Except Landscape and Naval
Architectural Drafters
Art Directors
Atmospheric and Space Scientists
Audiologists
Boat Builders and Shipwrights
Broadcast News Analysts
Broadcast Technicians
Camera Operators, Television, Video, andMotion Picture
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
Cartoonists
Chemists
Child Support, Missing Persons, andUnemployment Insurance Fraud
Investigators
Child, Family, and School Social Workers
Civil Engineering Technicians
Civil Engineers
Commercial and Industrial Designers
Commercial Pilots
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Computer Hardware Engineers
Computer Programmers
Computer Software Engineers, Applications
Computer Software Engineers, Systems
Software
Computer Support Specialists
Construction Carpenters
Creative Writers
Criminal Investigators and Special Agents
Dancers
Dietitians and Nutritionists
Editors

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
11-9031.00
Education Administrators, Preschool andChild Care Center/Program
19-3031.01
Educational Psychologists
21-1012.00
Educational, Vocational, and SchoolCounselors
17-3012.02
Electrical Drafters
17-3023.03
Electrical Engineering Technicians
17-3023.01
Electronics Engineering Technicians
25-2021.00
Elementary School Teachers, Except
Special Education
19-1041.00
Epidemiologists
27-1027.02
Exhibit Designers
25-9021.00
Farm and Home Management Advisors11-3031.02
Financial Managers, Branch or Department
33-2021.02
Fire Investigators
33-1012.00
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Policeand Detectives
19-4092.00
Forensic Science Technicians
51-9195.04
Glass Blowers, Molders, Benders, andFinishers
11-1011.01
Government Service Executives
27-1024.00
Graphic Designers
11-3040.00
Human Resources Managers
27-1025.00
Interior Designers
51-9071.01
Jewelers
13-1111.00
Management Analysts
19-3021.00
Market Research Analysts
11-2021.00
Marketing Managers
15-3011.00
Mathematical Technicians
17-3013.00
Mechanical Drafters
17-3027.00
Mechanical Engineering Technicians
29-2011.00
Medical and Clinical Laboratory
Technologists
21-1022.00
Medical and Public Health Social Workers
19-1042.00
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
21-1023.00
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social
Workers
21-1014.00
Mental Health Counselors
25-2022.00
Middle School Teachers, Except Special
and Vocational Education
49-3042.00
Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics,
Except Engines
51-4061.00
Model Makers, Metal and Plastic

11-9032.00

Education Administrators, Elementary and

51-7031.00

11-2011.00
17-3021.00
53-2021.00
49-3011.02
49-3011.01
53-2011.00
17-1011.00
17-3011.01
27-1011.00
19-2021.00
29-1121.00
47-2031.05
27-3021.00
27-4012.00
27-4031.00
17-1021.00
27-1013.03
19-2031.00
33-3021.04
21-1021.00
17-3022.00
17-2051.00
27-1021.00
53-2012.00
11-3041.00
17-2061.00
15-1021.00
15-1031.00
15-1032.00

90

Model Makers, WoodDOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

ACHIEVEMENT-JOB ZONE 4 (CONTINUED)O*NET-SOC#
33-1021.01
27-2041.02
15-1081.00
29-2033.00
29-1122.00
29-2081.00
29-1041.00
27-1013.01
51-7032.00
51-9071.05
29-1051.00
51-5022.03
29-1123.00
29-1071.00
47-2152.01
29-1081.00
27-3043.01
33-3021.01
27-3031.00
13-1023.00
29-2034.01
29-1111.00

O*NET-SOC Title
Municipal Fire Fighting and Prevention
Supervisors
Music Arrangers and Orchestrators
Network Systems and Data
Communications Analysts
Nuclear Medicine Technologists
Occupational Therapists
Opticians, Dispensing
Optometrists
Painters and Illustrators
Patternmakers, Wood
Pewter Casters and Finishers
Pharmacists
Photoengravers
Physical Therapists
Physician Assistants
Pipe Fitters
Podiatrists
Poets and Lyricists
Police Detectives
Public Relations Specialists
Purchasing Agents, Except Wholesale,
Retail, and Farm ProductsRadiologic Technologists
Registered Nurses

O*NET-SOC#
27-3022.00
25-2031.00
25-3021.00
11-9151.00
25-2042.00
25-2041.00
25-2043.00
29-1127.00
15-2041.00
47-2022.00
21-1011.00
17-1022.00
11-3042.00
19-3051.00
25-1194.00
25-2023.00
25-2032.00

O*NET-SOC Title
Reporters and Correspondents
Secondary School Teachers, Except
Special and Vocational Education
Self-Enrichment Education Teachers
Social and Community Service Managers
Special Education Teachers, Middle School
Special Education Teachers, Preschool,
Kindergarten, and Elementary School
Special Education Teachers, Secondary
SchoolSpeech-Language Pathologists
Statisticians
Stonemasons
Substance Abuse and Behavioral DisorderCounselors
Surveyors
Training and Development Managers
Urban and Regional Planners
Vocational Education Teachers,
Postsecondary
Vocational Education Teachers, Middle
SchoolVocational Education Teachers, Secondary
School** Indicates that the occupation was assigned to the group based on its second highest work value.
*** Indicates that the occupation was assigned to the group based on its third highest work value.

91

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

ACHIEVEMENT-JOB ZONE 5 (Extensive Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
17-2011.00 Aerospace Engineers
25-1041.00 Agricultural Sciences Teachers,
Postsecondary
29-1061.00 Anesthesiologists
25-1061.00 Anthropology and Archeology Teachers,
Postsecondary
25-4011.00 Archivists
25-1062.00 Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers,
Postsecondary
25-1121.00 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers,
Postsecondary
29-9091.00 Athletic Trainers
25-1042.00 Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
19-1020.01 Biologists
17-2041.00 Chemical Engineers
25-1052.00 Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary
29-1011.00 Chiropractors
21-2011.00 Clergy
25-1021.00 Computer Science Teachers,
Postsecondary
19-3031.03 Counseling Psychologists
29-1021.00 Dentists, General
21-2021.00 Directors, Religious Activities and Education
25-1063.00 Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
19-3011.00 Economists
11-9033.00 Education Administrators, Postsecondary
25-1032.00 Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
25-1123.00 English Language and Literature Teachers,
Postsecondary
19-2041.00 Environmental Scientists and Specialists,
Including Health29-1062.00 Family and General Practitioners
25-1124.00 Foreign Language and Literature Teachers,
Postsecondary
25-1043.00 Forestry and Conservation Science
Teachers, Postsecondary
19-2042.01 Geologists
21-1091.00 Health Educators

92

O*NET-SOC#
25-1071.00
25-1125.00
29-1063.00
17-1012.00
23-1011.00
17-2121.02
17-2121.01
25-1022.00
15-2021.00
27-2041.01
27-2042.02
17-2161.00
25-1072.00
29-1064.00
29-1022.00
29-1023.00
29-1065.00
17-2171.00
19-2012.00
25-1054.00
25-1065.00
17-2111.03
29-1024.00
29-1066.00
25-1066.00
41-9031.00
27-1013.04
27-1027.01
53-5031.00
25-1067.00
29-1067.00
27-3042.00
11-3031.01
29-1131.00
19-1023.00

O*NET-SOC Title
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
History Teachers, Postsecondary
Internists, General
Landscape Architects
Lawyers
Marine Architects
Marine Engineers
Mathematical Science Teachers,
Postsecondary
MathematiciansMusic Directors
Musicians, Instrumental
Nuclear Engineers
Nursing Instructors and Teachers,
Postsecondary
Obstetricians and Gynecologists
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Orthodontists
Pediatricians, General
Petroleum Engineers
Physicists
Physics Teachers, Postsecondary
Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Product Safety Engineers
Prosthodontists
Psychiatrists
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
Sales Engineers
Sculptors
Set Designers
Ship Engineers
Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary
Surgeons
Technical Writers
Treasurers, Controllers, and Chief Financial
Officers
Veterinarians
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

INDEPENDENCE
INDEPENDENCE-JOB ZONE 1 (Little or No Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
39-9011.00 Child Care Workers***
41-9091.00 Door-to-Door Sales Workers, News andStreet Vendors, and Related Workers***
45-3011.00 Fishers and Related Fishing Workers**

O*NET-SOC#
39-5092.00
41-9041.00
53-3032.01

O*NET-SOC Title
Manicurists and Pedicurists**
Telemarketers***
Truck Drivers, Heavy***

INDEPENDENCE-JOB ZONE 2 (Some Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC#
45-2091.00
49-3091.00
27-1023.00
33-2022.00
51-7021.00
45-3021.00
39-5091.00
53-5022.00
33-9021.00
27-3011.00
53-6051.04

O*NET-SOC Title
Agricultural Equipment Operators**
Bicycle Repairers**
Floral Designers**
Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention
Specialists**
Furniture Finishers**
Hunters and Trappers
Makeup Artists, Theatrical and
Performance***
Motorboat Operators
Private Detectives and Investigators**
Radio and Television Announcers**
Railroad Inspectors***

O*NET-SOC#
41-9022.00
41-4011.01
41-4011.03
41-4011.04
41-4012.00

27-2042.01
33-3052.00
41-3041.00
39-6022.00

O*NET-SOC Title
Real Estate Sales Agents
Sales Representatives, Agricultural**Sales Representatives,
Electrical/Electronic**
Sales Representatives, MechanicalEquipment and Supplies**
Sales Representatives, Wholesale andManufacturing, Except Technical andScientific Products
Singers**
Transit and Railroad Police**
Travel Agents**
Travel Guides**INDEPENDENCE-JOB ZONE 3 (Medium Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
13-1011.00 Agents and Business Managers of Artists,
45-2021.00 Performers, and Athletes
Animal Breeders
39-2011.00 Animal Trainers
15-1051.00 Computer Systems Analysts
47-4011.00 Construction and Building Inspectors
51-9194.03 Etchers
11-9012.00 Farmers and Ranchers45-1011.01 First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors - Agricultural Crop
Workers
45-1011.03 First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors - Animal Care
Workers, Except Livestock
93

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
43-1011.01 First- Line Supervisors, Customer Service
35-1012.00 First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Food
Preparation and Serving Workers
53-1021.00 First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Helpers
Laborers, and Material Movers, Hand
41-1012.00 First-Line Supervisors/Managers of NonRetail Sales Workers
39-1021.00 First-Line Supervisors/Managers of
Personal Service Workers
51-1011.00 First-Line Supervisors/Managers of
Production and Operating Workers
41-1011.00 First-Line Supervisors/Managers of RetailTransportation and Material-Moving
Machine and Vehicle Operators

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

INDEPENDENCE-JOB ZONE 3 (CONTINUED)O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
45-1011.02 First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors - Animal Husbandry
Workers
47-1011.02 First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors- Extractive Workers
45-1011.06 First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors - Fishery Workers
45-1011.04 First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors - Horticultural
Workers
37-1012.02 First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors - Landscaping
Workers
43-1011.02 First-Line Supervisors, Administrative
Support33-3031.00 Fish and Game Wardens

O*NET-SOC#
39-9031.00
11-9071.00
39-1011.00
37-1011.02
11-9081.00
51-5022.07
41-3031.02
41-4011.06
41-4011.05
51-9071.02
19-3041.00
27-2012.04
51-6093.00
13-1022.00

O*NET-SOC Title
Fitness Trainers and Aerobics Instructors
Gaming Managers
Gaming Supervisors
Janitorial Supervisors
Lodging Managers
Platemakers
Sales Agents, Financial Services
Sales Representatives, Instruments
Sales Representatives, Medical
Silversmiths
Sociologists
Talent Directors
Upholsterers
Wholesale and Retail Buyers, Except Farm
Products

INDEPENDENCE-JOB ZONE 4 (Considerable Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC#
11-3011.00
11-9011.02
19-3091.01
13-2021.02
19-3091.02
51-5022.04
35-1011.00
19-3031.02
15-1071.01
11-9021.00
27-3043.04
13-1041.06
39-3092.00
25-4012.00
51-6052.02
15-1061.00
27-2012.02
27-4032.00
17-2111.02
45-1011.05

O*NET-SOC Title
Administrative Services Managers
Agricultural Crop Farm Managers
Anthropologists
Appraisers, Real Estate
Archeologists
Camera Operators
Chefs and Head Cooks
Clinical Psychologists
Computer Security Specialists
Construction Managers
Copy Writers
Coroners
Costume Attendants
Curators
Custom Tailors
Database Administrators
Directors- Stage, Motion Pictures,
Television, and Radio
Film and Video Editors
Fire-Prevention and Protection Engineers
First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors - Logging Workers

O*NET-SOC#
11-9011.03
19-1012.00
11-9051.00
19-1032.00
11-9061.00
19-3092.00
11-1011.01
19-3093.00
17-2112.00
11-3051.00
17-2111.01
25-2012.00
37-1012.01
19-2032.00
17-2141.00
11-9111.00
13-1121.00

11-9011.01
15-2031.00
94

O*NET-SOC Title
Fish Hatchery Managers
Food Scientists and Technologists
Food Service Managers
Foresters
Funeral Directors
Geographers
Government Service Executives
Historians
Industrial Engineers
Industrial Production Managers
Industrial Safety and Health Engineers
Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special
Education
Lawn Service Managers
Materials Scientists
Mechanical Engineers
Medical and Health Services Managers
Meeting and Convention Planners Mining
And Geological Engineers, Including Mining
Safety Engineers
Nursery and Greenhouse Managers
Operations Research Analysts

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

INDEPENDENCE-JOB ZONE 4 (CONTINUED)O*NET-SOC#
47-1011.01

49-1011.00
11-9141.00
13-1021.00
41-3031.01
11-2022.00
53-5021.01

O*NET-SOC Title
First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors- Construction Trades
Workers
First-Line Supervisors/Managers of
Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers
Property, Real Estate, and Community
Association Managers
Purchasing Agents and Buyers, Farm
Products Sales
Agents, Securities and Commodities
Sales Manager
Ship and Boat Captains

O*NET-SOC#
19-1031.03
51-9195.05
25-2011.00
19-1031.01
11-3071.02
51-5022.06
27-2012.05
13.1073.00
11-3071.01

O*NET-SOC Title
Park Naturalist
Potters
Preschool Teachers, Except Special
Education Producers
Soil Conservationists
Storage and Distribution Managers
Strippers
Technical Directors/Managers
Training and Development Specialist
Transportation Managers

INDEPENDENCE-JOB ZONE 5 (Extensive Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
23-1021.00
Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators,
and Hearing Officers
17-2021.00
Agricultural Engineers
19-1011.00
Animal Scientists
23-1022.00
Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators
19-2011.00
Astronomers
19-1021.01
Biochemists
19-1021.02
Biophysicists
27-2032.00
Choreographers27-2022.00
Coaches and Scouts
27-2041.03
Composers
11-3021.00
Computer and Information Systems
Managers
17-2071.00
Electrical Engineers
17-2072.00
Electronics Engineers, Except Computer
11-9041.00
Engineering Managers
13-2051.00
Financial Analysts

95

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
33-1021.02 Forest Fire Fighting and Prevention
Supervisors
19-2043.00 Hydrologists
19-3032.00 Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
25-9031.00 Instructional Coordinators
23-1023.00 Judges, Magistrate Judges, and Magistrates
17-2131.00 Materials Engineers
19-1022.00 Microbiologists
11-9121.00 Natural Sciences Managers
29-9011.00 Occupational Health and Safety Specialists
53-5021.03 Pilots, Ship
19-1013.01 Plant Scientists
19-3094.00 Political Scientists
11-1011.02 Private Sector Executives
27-2012.03 Program Directors
19-1031.02 Range Managers
19-1013.02 Soil Scientists

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

RECOGNITION
RECOGNITION-JOB ZONE 1 (Little or No Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
41-9012.00 Models**

RECOGNITION-JOB ZONE 2 (Some Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
53-5011.01
Able Seamen***43-5031.00
Police, Fire, and Ambulance Dispatchers***

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
41-9022.00 Real Estate Sales Agents***

RECOGNITION-JOB ZONE 3 (Medium Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC#
27-2021.00
17-3012.01
45-1011.01

45-1011.02

47-1011.02
45-1011.06
45-1011.04

37-1012.02
43-1011.02
43-1011.01

O*NET-SOC Title
Athletes and Sports Competitors***
Electronic Drafters***
First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors - Agricultural
Crop Workers***
First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors - Animal Husbandry
Workers***
First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors- Extractive
Workers***
First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors - Fishery Workers***
First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors -Horticultural
Workers***
First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors - Landscaping
Workers***
First-Line Supervisors, Administrative
Support***First-Line Supervisors, Customer Service***

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
53-1021.00 First-Line Supervisors/Managers of
Helpers, Laborers, and Material Movers,
Hand**
41-1012.00 First-Line Supervisors/Managers of NonRetail
Sales Workers**
51-1011.00 First-Line Supervisors/Managers of
Production and Operating Workers***
and Operating Workers***
41-1011.00
53-1031.00
33-3031.00
19-4041.02
53-5021.02
27-2012.04
27-2023.00

First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Retail
Sales Workers**
First-Line Supervisors/Managers ofTransportation and Material-Moving
Machine and Vehicle Operators***
Fish and Game Wardens***
Geological Sample Test Technicians***
Mates- Ship, Boat, and Barge
Talent Directors***
Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports
Officials***** Indicates that the occupation was assigned to the group based on its second highest work value.
*** Indicates that the occupation was assigned to the group based on its third highest work value.

96

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

RECOGNITION-JOB ZONE 4 (Considerable Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
11-3011.00 Administrative Services Managers**
53-2011.00 Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight
Engineers**
53-2021.00 Air Traffic Controllers***
27-1011.00 Art Directors***
17-2051.00 Civil Engineers***
53-2012.00 Commercial Pilots**
27-2012.02 Directors- Stage, Motion Pictures,
Television, and Radio***11-9032.00 Education Administrators, Elementary andSecondary School**
11-9031.00 Education Administrators, Preschool andChild Care Center/Program**
13-2061.00 Financial Examiners**
11-3031.02 Financial Managers, Branch or
Department**

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
47-1011.01 First-Line Supervisors andManager/Supervisors-Construction Trades
Workers**
49-1011.00 First-Line Supervisors/Managers of
Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers**
33-1012.00 First-Line Supervisors/Managers of Policeand Detectives***
17-2112.00 Industrial Engineers***
17-2151.00 Mining and Geological Engineers, Including
Mining Safety Engineers***
27-2012.01 Producers***
41-3031.01 Sales Agents, Securities andCommodities***
11-2022.00 Sales Managers**
53-5021.01 Ship and Boat Captains***
27-2012.05 Technical Directors/Managers***

RECOGNITION-JOB ZONE 5 (Extensive Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC#
17-2011.00
17-2041.00
27-2032.00
21-2011.00
27-2022.00
11-9033.00
33-1021.02
25-9031.00
17-2121.01

O*NET-SOC Title
Aerospace Engineers***
Chemical Engineers***
Choreographers***
Clergy***Coaches and Scouts***
Education Administrators, Postsecondary**
Forest Fire Fighting and Prevention
Supervisors***
Instructional Coordinators***
Marine Engineers***

97

O*NET-SOC#
27-2041.01
17-2171.00
53-5021.03
27-2012.03
27-1027.01
53-5031.00
29-1067.00
11-3031.01

O*NET-SOC Title
Music Directors***
Petroleum Engineers***
Pilots, Ship***
Program Directors***
Set Designers***
Ship Engineers***
Surgeons***
Treasurers, Controllers, and Chief Financial
Officers***

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

RELATIONSHIPSRELATIONSHIPS-JOB ZONE 1 (Little or No Preparation Needed)

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
53-3011.00 Ambulance Drivers and Attendants, Except
Emergency Medical Technicians
39-3091.00 Amusement and Recreation Attendants
39-6011.00 Baggage Porters and Bellhops
35-3011.00 Bartenders
39-9011.00 Child Care Workers
53-7061.00 Cleaners of Vehicles and Equipment
35-3021.00 Combined Food Preparation and Serving
Workers, Including Fast Food
35-2015.00 Cooks, Short Order41-2021.00 Counter and Rental Clerks35-3022.00 Counter Attendants, Cafeteria, Food
Concession, and Coffee Shop
43-5021.00 Couriers and Messengers
33-9091.00 Crossing Guards
41-9011.00 Demonstrators and Product Promoters
35-9011.00 Dining Room and Cafeteria Attendants andBartender Helpers
35-9021.00 Dishwashers
45-2093.00 Farmworkers, Farm and Ranch Animals
45-3011.00 Fishers and Related Fishing Workers
35-2021.00 Food Preparation Workers
35-3041.00 Food Servers, Nonrestaurant
39-4021.00 Funeral Attendants
45-2092.02 General Farmworkers
47-3011.00 Helpers-Brickmasons, Blockmasons,
Stonemasons, and Tile and Marble Setters47-3012.00 Helpers-Carpenters

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
49-9098.00 Helpers-Installation, Maintenance, andRepair Workers
47-3014.00 Helpers-Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers,
and Stucco Masons31-1011.00 Home Health Aides
37-2011.00 Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids andHousekeeping Cleaners
37-3011.00 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers
Locker39-3093.00 Room, Coatroom, and Dressing Room
Attendants
37-2012.00 Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners
39-5092.00 Manicurists and Pedicurists
43-9061.00 Office Clerks, General
53-6021.00 Parking Lot Attendants
51-6021.03 Pressers, Hand
51-9198.01 Production Laborers
53-6031.00 Service Station Attendants
51-6051.00 Sewers, Hand
51-6011.01 Spotters, Dry Cleaning
53-3041.00 Taxi Drivers and Chauffeurs
49-3093.00 Tire Repairers and Changers
39-6021.00 Tour Guides and Escorts
39-6032.00 Transportation Attendants, Except FlightAttendants and Baggage Porters
39-3031.00 Ushers, Lobby Attendants, and Ticket
Takers35-3031.00 Waiters and Waitresses

RELATIONSHIPS-JOB ZONE 2 (Some Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC#
49-3091.00
35-2011.00
35-2012.00
47-4031.00
39-6031.00
47-2043.00
47-3015.00
43-4081.00
25-4031.00

O*NET-SOC Title
Bicycle Repairers
Cooks, Fast Food
Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria
Fence Erectors
Flight Attendants
Floor Sanders and Finishers
Helpers-Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters,
and Steamfitters
Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerks
Library Technicians
98

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
33-9092.00 Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other
Recreational Protective Service Workers
39-5091.00 Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance
31-1012.00 Nursing Aides, Orderlies, and Attendants
31-2012.00 Occupational Therapist Aides
31-2011.00 Occupational Therapist Assistants
47-2142.00 Paperhangers
39-9021.00 Personal and Home Care Aides
37-3012.00 Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, andApplicators, Vegetation

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

RELATIONSHIPS-JOB ZONE 2 (CONTINUED)O*NET-SOC#
29-2052.00
31-2022.00
31-2021.00
47-2072.00
47-2152.03
51-6021.01
31-1013.00

O*NET-SOC Title
Pharmacy Technicians
Physical Therapist Aides
Physical Therapist Assistants
Pile-Driver Operators
Pipelaying Fitters
Pressers, Delicate Fabrics
Psychiatric Aides

O*NET-SOC#
47-5051.00
43-3071.00
41-3041.00
43-4181.01
39-6022.00
37-3013.00
43-4061.02

O*NET-SOC Title
Rock Splitters, Quarry
Tellers
Travel AgentsTravel Clerks
Travel Guides
Tree Trimmers and Pruners
Welfare Eligibility Workers and Interviewers

RELATIONSHIPS-JOB ZONE 3 (Medium Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC#
51-3011.01
39-5011.00
51-3021.00
29-2031.00
47-2051.00
35-2014.00
31-9091.00
29-2021.00
13-1071.01
47-2042.00
47-2121.00
39-5012.00
49-9031.01
35-9031.00

O*NET-SOC Title
Bakers, Bread and Pastry
Barbers
Butchers and Meat Cutters
Cardiovascular Technologists andTechnicians Cement
Masons and Concrete Finishers
Cooks, Restaurant
Dental Assistants
Dental Hygienists
Employment Interviewers, Private or Public
Employment Service
Floor Layers, Except Carpet, Wood, andHard Tiles
Glaziers
Hairdressers, Hairstylists, andCosmetologists
Home Appliance Installers
Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge,
and Coffee Shop

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
29-2061.00 Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational
Nurses31-9092.00 Medical Assistants
29-2071.00 Medical Records and Health Information
Technicians
13-2052.00 Personal Financial Advisors47-2152.02 Plumbers
29-2053.00 Psychiatric Technicians
39-9032.00 Recreation Workers
39-9041.00 Residential Advisors29-1126.00 Respiratory Therapists
47-2181.00 Roofers
29-2055.00 Surgical Technologists
25-9041.00 Teacher Assistants
47-2053.00 Terrazzo Workers and Finishers
31-9096.00 Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal
Caretakers

99

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

RELATIONSHIPS-JOB ZONE 4 (Considerable Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC#
27-4011.00
29-1121.00
25-9011.00
47-2041.00
29-2051.00
29-1031.00
39-4011.00
37-1011.01
25-4021.00
29-1122.00
29-2081.00

O*NET-SOC Title
Audio and Video Equipment Technicians
Audiologists**
Audio-Visual Collections Specialists
Carpet Installers
Dietetic Technicians
Dietitians and Nutritionists**
Embalmers
Housekeeping Supervisors
Librarians
Occupational Therapists**
Opticians, Dispensing**

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
47-2141.00 Painters, Construction and
Maintenance29-1123.00 Physical Therapists**
29-1071.00 Physician Assistants**
47-2161.00 Plasterers and Stucco Masons29-1124.00 Radiation Therapists
29-2034.02 Radiologic Technicians
29-1125.00 Recreational Therapists
29-1111.00 Registered Nurses**29-1127.00 Speech-Language Pathologists**

RELATIONSHIPS-JOB ZONE 5 (Extensive Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
25-1041.00 Agricultural Sciences Teachers,
Postsecondary***
29-1061.00 Anesthesiologists**
25-1061.00 Anthropology and Archeology Teachers,
Postsecondary***
25-1062.00 Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers,
Postsecondary***
25-1121.00 Art, Drama, and Music Teachers,
Postsecondary***
29-9091.00 Athletic Trainers
25-1042.00 Biological Science Teachers,
Postsecondary***
25-1052.00 Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary***
29-1021.00 Dentists, General***25-1063.00 Economics Teachers, Postsecondary***
25-1123.00 English Language and Literature Teachers,
Postsecondary***
29-1062.00 Family and General Practitioners***
25-1124.00 Foreign Language and Literature Teachers,
Postsecondary***

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
25-1043.00 Forestry and Conservation Science
Teachers, Postsecondary***
25-1191.00 Graduate Teaching Assistants
21-1091.00 Health Educators**
25-1071.00 Health Specialties Teachers,
Postsecondary***
25-1125.00 History Teachers, Postsecondary***
29-1063.00 Internists, General***25-1072.00 Nursing Instructors and Teachers,
Postsecondary***
29-1064.00 Obstetricians and Gynecologists***
29-1022.00 Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons***
29-1023.00 Orthodontists***
29-1065.00 Pediatricians, General***25-1054.00 Physics Teachers, Postsecondary***
25-1065.00 Political Science Teachers,
Postsecondary***
25-1066.00 Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary***
25-1067.00 Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary***** Indicates that the occupation was assigned to the group based on its second highest work value.
*** Indicates that the occupation was assigned to the group based on its third highest work value.

100

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

SUPPORTSUPPORT-JOB ZONE 1 (Little or No Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC#
33-3011.00
43-3021.03
51-5011.02
53-3021.00
41-2011.00
51-9191.00
43-2021.02
51-9192.00
51-9121.02
53-7011.00
51-9193.00
43-4041.01
43-4041.02
51-9021.00
51-9031.00
51-9032.04
43-2021.01
53-3031.00
43-9071.01
51-9194.05
51-6091.01
51-9041.02
49-9093.00
45-4021.00
43-4071.00
51-3091.00
51-3093.00
53-7062.03
51-9051.00
51-9032.03

O*NET-SOC Title
Bailiffs
Billing, Posting, and Calculating Machine
Operators
Bindery Machine Operators and Tenders
Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity
Cashiers
Cementing and Gluing Machine Operators
and Tenders
Central Office Operators
Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling
Equipment Operators and Tenders
Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine
Operators and Tenders
Conveyor Operators and Tenders
Cooling and Freezing Equipment Operators
and Tenders
Credit Authorizers
Credit Checkers
Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine
Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Cutters and Trimmers, Hand
Cutting and Slicing Machine Operators andTenders
Directory Assistance Operators
Driver/Sales Workers
Duplicating Machine Operators
Etchers, Hand
Extruding and Forming Machine Operators
and Tenders, Synthetic or Glass Fibers
Extruding, Forming, Pressing, andCompacting Machine Operators andTenders
Fabric Menders, Except Garment
Fallers
File Clerks
Food and Tobacco Roasting, Baking, andDrying Machine Operators and Tenders
Food Cooking Machine Operators andTenders
Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand
Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle
Operators and Tenders
Glass Cutting Machine Setters and Set-Up
Operators

O*NET-SOC#
45-2041.00
51-9022.00
47-5081.00
49-9098.00
47-4051.00
53-7041.00
53-7051.00
43-4111.00
51-6011.03
43-4121.00
53-7063.00
43-9051.02
43-9051.01
49-9043.00
51-5023.05
43-5081.02
51-3022.00
51-4072.04
43-5041.00
51-9023.00
51-4193.04
39-2021.00
45-2092.01
43-9061.00
51-9111.00
53-7064.00
51-9123.00
51-9194.04
33-3041.00
51-4072.02
43-5052.00
51-4052.00

101

O*NET-SOC Title
Graders and Sorters, Agricultural Products
Grinding and Polishing Workers, Hand
Helpers-Extraction Workers
Helpers-Installation, Maintenance, andRepair Workers
Highway Maintenance Workers
Hoist and Winch Operators
Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators
Interviewers, Except Eligibility and Loan
Laundry and Drycleaning Machine
Operators and Tenders, Except Pressing
Library Assistants, Clerical
Machine Feeders and Offbearers
Mail Clerks, Except Mail Machine Operators
and Postal Service
Mail Machine Operators, Preparation and
Handling
Maintenance Workers, Machinery
Marking and Identification Printing Machine
Setters and Set-Up Operators
Marking Clerks
Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters andTrimmers
Metal Molding, Coremaking, and Casting
Machine Operators and Tenders
Meter Readers, Utilities
Mixing and Blending Machine Setters,
Operators, and Tenders
Nonelectrolytic Plating and Coating Machine
Operators and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Nonfarm Animal Caretakers
Nursery Workers
Office Clerks, General
Packaging and Filling Machine Operators
and Tenders
Packers and Packagers, Hand
Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers
Pantograph Engravers
Parking Enforcement Workers
Plastic Molding and Casting Machine
Operators and Tenders
Postal Service Mail Carriers
Pourers and Casters, Metal

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

SUPPORT-JOB ZONE 1 (CONTINUED)O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
51-6021.02 Pressing Machine Operators and TendersTextile, Garment, and Related Materials
51-5023.09 Printing Press Machine Operators andTenders
43-3061.00 Procurement Clerks
51-9198.02 Production Helpers
51-9061.05 Production Inspectors, Testers, Graders,
Sorters, Samplers, Weighers
53-4021.02 Railroad Yard Workers
47-4061.00 Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance
Equipment Operators

O*NET-SOC#
51-6031.01
51-6031.02
43-5071.00
51-6042.00
51-4121.04
51-4122.04

43-4171.00
49-9045.00

51-6061.00

53-7081.00
33-9032.00
51-9141.00
51-9012.00

Receptionists and Information Clerks
Refractory Materials Repairers, Except
Brickmasons
Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors
Security Guards
Semiconductor Processors
Separating, Filtering, Clarifying,
Precipitating, and Still Machine Setters,
Operators, and Tenders

53-7062.01
43-5081.01
43-2011.00

51-9197.00
53-3033.00
43-5111.00
51-4121.01
51-7042.02

O*NET-SOC Title
Sewing Machine Operators, Garment
Sewing Machine Operators, Non-Garment
Shipping, Receiving, and Traffic Clerks
Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders
Solderers
Soldering and Brazing Machine Operators
and Tenders
Stevedores, Except Equipment Operators
Stock Clerks, Sales Floor
Switchboard Operators, Including Answering
Service
Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine
Operators and Tenders
Tire Builders
Truck Drivers, Light or Delivery Services
Weighers, Measurers, Checkers, andSamplers, Recordkeeping
Welders, Production
Woodworking Machine Operators andTenders, Except Sawing

SUPPORT-JOB ZONE 2 (Some Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC#
53-5011.01
43-4051.01
19-4011.01
33-9011.00
49-3022.00
51-8013.02
49-2092.03
43-3011.00
51-5011.01
19-4021.00
51-4121.05
53-6011.00
51-4033.02
53-3022.00
43-5011.00
51-9011.01
51-9011.01

O*NET-SOC Title
Able Seamen
Adjustment Clerks
Agricultural Technicians
Animal Control Workers
Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers
Auxiliary Equipment Operators, Power
Battery Repairers
Bill and Account Collectors
Bindery Machine Setters and Set-Up
Operators
Biological TechniciansBrazers
Bridge and Lock Tenders
Buffing and Polishing Set-Up Operators
Bus Drivers, School
Cargo and Freight Agents
Chemical Equipment Controllers andOperators
Chemical Equipment Tenders

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
51-9121.01 Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine
Setters and Set-Up Operators
51-2021.00 Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers
51-4081.02 Combination Machine Tool Operators andTenders, Metal and Plastic
47-5021.01 Construction Drillers
47-2061.00 Construction Laborers
33-3012.00 Correctional Officers and Jailers
43-4021.00 Correspondence Clerks
53-7021.00 Crane and Tower Operators
43-4051.02 Customer Service Representatives, Utilities
43-9021.00 Data Entry Keyers
47-5011.00 Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas
43-5032.00 Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, andAmbulance
53-7032.02 Dragline Operators
53-7031.00 Dredge Operators
51-4032.00 Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters,
Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
SUPPORT-JOB ZONE 2 (CONTINUED)
102

DOL Career and Credential Exploration
O*NET-SOC#
51-8091.00
43-4061.01
51-4193.02
53-7032.01
47-5031.00
51-4021.00
51-9041.01

51-9032.01
51-4022.00
51-4071.00
49-2022.02
53-6051.06
39-3012.00
39-3011.00
51-8092.01
53-7071.01
47-2073.01
53-7062.02
51-4191.02

51-4191.03
47-3013.00
43-4081.00
43-4161.00
43-9041.01
43-9041.02
47-4041.03

Participant Guide

O*NET-SOC Title
Chemical Plant and System Operators
Claims Takers, Unemployment Benefits
Electrolytic Plating and Coating Machine
Operators and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Excavating and Loading Machine Operators
Explosives Workers, Ordnance HandlingExperts, and Blasters
Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters,
Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Extruding, Forming, Pressing, andCompacting Machine Setters and Set-Up
Operators
Fiber Product Cutting Machine Setters and
Set-Up Operators
Forging Machine Setters, Operators, andTenders, Metal and Plastic
Foundry Mold and Coremakers
Frame Wirers, Central Office
Freight Inspectors
Gaming and Sports Book Writers andRunners
Gaming Dealers
Gas Processing Plant Operators
Gas Pumping Station Operators
Grader, Bulldozer, and Scraper Operators
Grips and Set-Up Workers, Motion Picture
Sets, Studios and Stages
Heat Treating, Annealing, and Tempering
Machine Operators and Tenders, Metal
and Plastic
Heaters, Metal and Plastic
Helpers – Electricians
Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerks
Human Resources Assistants, Except
Payroll and Timekeeping
Insurance Claims Clerks
Insurance Policy Processing Clerks
License Clerks

103

O*NET-SOC#
47-2081.02
49-2092.05
49-9095.00
31-9093.00
51-4072.03
51-4051.00
49-9012.03
47-5042.00
51-9195.06
51-9195.07
39-3021.00
53-6051.05
43-4031.02
43-4141.00
51-4011.01
43-4151.00
43-5081.04
53-5011.02
51-9122.00
51-9196.00
41-2022.00
47-2071.00
43-3051.00
37-2021.00
51-5022.13
51-9132.00
47-2151.00
51-4072.01

O*NET-SOC Title
Drywall Installers
Electrical Parts Reconditioners
Manufactured Building and Mobile Home
Installers
Medical Equipment Preparers
Metal Molding, Coremaking, and Casting
Machine Setters, and Set-Up Operators
Metal-Refining Furnace Operators andTenders
Meter Mechanics
Mine Cutting and Channeling Machine
Operators
Mold Makers, Hand
Molding and Casting Workers
Motion Picture Projectionist
Motor Vehicle Inspectors
Municipal Clerks
New Accounts Clerks
Numerical Control Machine Tool Operators
and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Order Clerks
Order Fillers, Wholesale and Retail Sales
Ordinary Seamen and Marine Oilers
Painters, Transportation Equipment
Paper Goods Machine Setters, Operators,
and Tenders
Parts Salespersons
Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment
Operators
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks
Pest Control Workers
Photoengraving and Lithographing Machine
Operators and Tenders
Photographic Processing Machine
Operators
Pipelayers
Plastic Molding and Casting Machine Setters
and Set-Up Operators

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

SUPPORT-JOB ZONE 2 (CONTINUED)O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
53-7033.00 Loading Machine Operators, Underground
Mining43-4131.00 Loan Interviewers and Clerks
45-4023.00 Log Graders and Scalers45-4022.01 Logging Tractor Operators
43-5061.00 Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks
43-9081.00 Proofreaders and Copy Markers
53-7072.00 Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumpers
51-4031.02 Punching Machine Setters and Set-Up
Operators, Metal and Plastic
53-4013.00 Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, andHostlers
53-6051.04 Railroad Inspectors
49-3092.00 Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians
43-4181.02 Reservation and Transportation Ticket
Agents41-2031.00 Retail Salespersons
51-4023.00 Rolling Machine Setters, Operators, andTenders, Metal and Plastic
47-5061.00 Roof Bolters, Mining
47-5071.00 Roustabouts, Oil and Gas
51-7041.02 Sawing Machine Operators and Tenders
51.7041.01
Sawing Machine Setters and Set-Up
Operators
51-4031.01 Sawing Machine Tool Setters and Set-Up
Operators, Metal and Plastic
43-6014.00 Secretaries, Except Legal, Medical, andExecutive
47-4071.00 Septic Tank Services and Sewer Pipe
Cleaners
51-4031.04 Shear and Slitter Machine Setters and SetUp Operators, Metal and Plastic

O*NET-SOC#
43-5031.00
43-5051.00
51-5023.01
51-4031.03
53-7111.00
51-3023.00
21-1093.00
51-4122.03
43-3021.01
43-5081.03
51-9032.02
53-4041.00
47-2082.00
13-2082.00
23-2093.01
53-3032.02
53-4021.01
43-4181.01
51-5022.12
51-8031.00
51-4121.02
51-4122.02
51-7042.01
43-9022.00

O*NET-SOC Title
Police, Fire, and Ambulance Dispatchers
Postal Service Clerks
Precision Printing Workers
Press and Press Brake Machine Setters and
Set-Up Operators, Metal and Plastic
Shuttle Car Operators
Slaughterers and Meat Packers
Social and Human Service Assistants
Soldering and Brazing Machine Setters
and Set-Up Operators
Statement Clerks
Stock Clerks – Stockroom, Warehouse, orStorage Yard
Stone Sawyers
Subway and Streetcar Operators
TapersTax Preparers
Title Searchers
Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers
Train Crew Members
Travel Clerks
Typesetting and Composing Machine
Operators and Tenders
Water and Liquid Waste Treatment Plant
and System Operators
Welders and Cutters
Welding Machine Operators and Tenders
Woodworking Machine Setters and Set-Up
Operators, Except Sawing
Word Processors and Typists

SUPPORT-JOB ZONE 3 (Medium Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC#
51-2011.03
51-2011.01
51-2011.02
49-2011.01
51-3011.01
51-3011.02
51-4072.05
19-4061.01
51-4081.01

O*NET-SOC Title
Aircraft Rigging Assemblers
Aircraft Structure Assemblers, Precision
Aircraft Systems Assemblers, Precision
Automatic Teller Machine Servicers
Bakers, Bread and Pastry
Bakers, Manufacturing
Casting Machine Set-Up Operators
City Planning Aides
Combination Machine Tool Setters and Set-

O*NET-SOC#
47-2131.00
47-2132.00
51-4034.00
51-4192.00
43-6012.00
51-5023.03
13-1041.02
53-4012.00

104

O*NET-SOC Title
Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall
Insulation Workers, Mechanical
Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters,
Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Lay-Out Workers, Metal and Plastic
Legal Secretaries
Letterpress Setters and Set-Up Operators
Licensing Examiners and Inspectors
Locomotive Firers

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

49-2022.03
43-9011.00
43-4031.01
51-5023.04
49-9012.01
51-2022.00
51-9061.04
49-2093.00
51-4193.01
51-2023.00
49-2096.00
51-5023.07
51-2031.00
51-9194.06
51-3092.00
51-8092.02
51-8093.03
19-4041.01
19-4041.02
13-1041.04
51-4033.01
51-4191.01
33-3021.05
51-6062.00
51-6063.00
51-6064.00

Participant Guide

Up Operators, Metal and Plastic
Communication Equipment Mechanics,
Installers, and Repairers
Computer Operators
Court Clerks
Design Printing Machine Setters and Set-Up
Operators
Electric Meter Installers and Repairers
Electrical and Electronic Equipment
Assemblers
Electrical and Electronic Inspectors andTesters
Electrical and Electronics Installers andRepairers, Transportation Equipment
Electrolytic Plating and Coating Machine
Setters and Set-Up Operators, Metal and
Plastic
Electromechanical Equipment Assemblers
Electronic Equipment Installers andRepairers, Motor Vehicles
Embossing Machine Set-Up Operators

49-9042.00
51-9061.01
53-5021.02
49-9011.00
43-6013.00
51-4035.00

Engine and Other Machine Assemblers
Engravers, Hand
Food Batchmakers
Gas Distribution Plant Operators
Gaugers
Geological Data TechniciansGeological Sample Test Technicians
Government Property Inspectors andInvestigators
Grinding, Honing, Lapping, and Deburring
Machine Set-Up Operators
Heating Equipment Setters and Set-Up
Operators, Metal and Plastic
Immigration and Customs Inspectors
Textile Cutting Machine Setters,
Operators, and Tenders
Textile Knitting and Weaving Machine
Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Textile Winding, Twisting, and Drawing
Out Machine Setters, Operators, andTenders

21-1092.00

51-4193.03
19-4051.01
19-4051.02
49-2011.03
47-2073.02
13-1071.02
51-8093.01
33-3021.02
51-9061.03
51-6011.02
51-9195.01

47-2171.00
49-9096.00
47-5012.00
51-5023.06
47-2211.00
51-8021.02
47-2221.00
53-7121.00
49-2022.04
49-9052.00
23-2093.02
51-4194.00
49-9012.02
51-4122.01
47-5021.02

Maintenance and Repair Workers, General
Materials Inspectors
Mates- Ship, Boat, and Barge
Mechanical Door Repairers
Medical Secretaries
Milling and Planning Machine Setters,
Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Nonelectrolytic Plating and Coating Machine
Setters and Set-Up Operators, Metal and
Plastic
Nuclear Equipment Operation Technicians
Nuclear Monitoring Technicians
Office Machine and Cash Register Servicers
Operating Engineers
Personnel Recruiters
Petroleum Pump System Operators
Police Identification and Records Officers
Precision Devices Inspectors and Testers
Precision Dyers
Precision Mold and Pattern Casters, except
Nonferrous Metals
Probation Officers andCorrectional
Treatment Specialists
Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Workers
Riggers
Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas
Screen Printing Machine Setters and SetUp Operators
Sheet Metal Workers
Stationary Engineers
Structural Iron and Steel Workers
Tank Car, Truck, and Ship Loaders
Telecommunications Facility Examiners
Telecommunications Line Installers andRepairers
Title Examiners and Abstractors
Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners
Valve and Regulator Repairers
Welding Machine Setters and Set-Up
Operators
Well and Core Drill Operators

SUPPORT-JOB ZONE 4 (Considerable Preparation Needed)
105

DOL Career and Credential Exploration
O*NET-SOC#
53-6051.01
49-2091.00
47-2011.00
51-5012.00
17-3023.02
47-2081.01
49-2022.01
13-1031.01
13-2041.00
49-9051.00
17-3024.00
47-4021.00
51-5023.08
13-1041.03
43-6011.00
51-2041.02
49-9031.02
53-7071.02
51-5022.01
13-1032.00
13-2053.00
13-2071.00
13-2072.00
53-4011.00

Participant Guide

O*NET-SOC Title
Aviation Inspectors
Avionics Technicians
Boilermakers
Bookbinders
Calibration and Instrumentation Technicians
Ceiling Tile Installers
Central Office and PBX Installers andRepairers
Claims Examiners, Property and Casualty
Insurance
Credit Analysts
Electrical Power-Line Installers andRepairers
Electro-Mechanical Technicians
Elevator Installers and Repairers
Engraver Set-Up Operators
Equal Opportunity Representatives andOfficers
Executive Secretaries and Administrative
Assistants
Fitters, Structural Metal- Precision
Gas Appliance Repairers
Gas Compressor Operators
Hand Compositors and Typesetters
Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage
Insurance Underwriters
Loan Counselors
Loan Officers
Locomotive Engineers

O*NET-SOC#
51-4041.00
51-9061.02
51-2041.01
49-9044.00
51-8011.00
51-9083.02
51-4062.00
51-8093.02
51-8012.00
51-8013.01
51-9195.02
13-1041.05
53-6051.02
53-4031.00
49-9021.02
47-5013.00
49-9097.00
49-2022.05
17-3031.01
13-2081.00
51-4111.00
53-6041.00
49-2092.04
51-4121.03
53-7073.00

O*NET-SOC Title
Machinists
Mechanical Inspectors
Metal Fabricators, Structural Metal Products
Millwrights
Nuclear Power Reactor Operators
Optical Instrument Assemblers
Patternmakers, Metal and Plastic
Petroleum Refinery and Control Panel
Operators
Power Distributors and Dispatchers
Power Generating Plant Operators, Except
Auxiliary Equipment Operators
Precision Pattern and Die Casters,
Nonferrous Metals
Pressure Vessel Inspectors
Public Transportation Inspectors
Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters
Refrigeration Mechanics
Service Unit Operators, Oil, Gas, and Mining
Signal and Track Switch Repairers
Station Installers and Repairers, Telephone
Surveying Technicians
Tax Examiners, Collectors, and Revenue
AgentsTool and Die Makers
Traffic Technicians
Transformer Repairers
Welder-Fitters
Wellhead Pumpers** Indicates that the occupation was assigned to the group based on its second highest work value.
*** Indicates that the occupation was assigned to the group based on its third highest work value.

106

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

SUPPORT-JOB ZONE 5 (Extensive Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
51-5022.08 Dot Etchers***
49-2095.00 Electrical and Electronics Repairers,
Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay
51-5022.10 Electrotypers and Stereotypers
25-1191.00 Graduate Teaching Assistants***

O*NET-SOC#
51-5021.00
53-6051.03
51-5023.02
51-5022.11

O*NET-SOC Title
Job Printers**
Marine Cargo Inspectors
Offset Lithographic Press Setters and SetUp Operators
Plate Finishers

WORKING CONDITIONSWORKING CONDITIONS-JOB ZONE 1 (Little or No Preparation Needed)

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
43-3021.03 Billing, Posting, and Calculating Machine
Operators**
51-5011.02 Bindery Machine Operators and Tenders**
53-3021.00 Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity**
39-9011.00 Child Care Workers**
43-4041.01 Credit Authorizers**
43-4041.02 Credit Checkers**
41-9091.00 Door-To-Door Sales Workers, News andStreet Vendors, and Related Workers
43-9051.02 Mail Clerks, Except Mail Machine
Operators and Postal Service**
49-9043.00 Maintenance Workers, Machinery**
41-9012.00 Models
43-5052.00 Postal Service Mail Carriers**
43-3061.00 Procurement Clerks**

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
51-9061.05 Production Inspectors, Testers, Graders,
Sorters, Samplers, Weighers**
49-9045.00 Refractory Materials Repairers, Except
Brickmasons**
51-9141.00 Semiconductor Processors**
51-6031.01 Sewing Machine Operators, Garment**
51-6031.02 Sewing Machine Operators, NonGarment**
43-2011.00 Switchboard Operators, Including
Answering Service**
41-9041.00 Telemarketers53-3032.01 Truck Drivers, Heavy
53-3033.00 Truck Drivers, Light or Delivery
Services**

WORKING CONDITIONS-JOB ZONE 2 (Some Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
43-3021.02 Billing, Cost, and Rate Clerks43-3031.00 Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing
Clerks43-4011.00 Brokerage Clerks
51-8091.00 Chemical Plant and System Operators**
49-9091.00 Coin, Vending, and Amusement Machine
Servicers and Repairers
19-4011.02 Food Science Technicians
51-7021.00
51-9071.06
49-2092.06
43-4161.00

Furniture Finishers
Gem and Diamond Workers**
Hand and Portable Power Tool Repairers
Human Resources Assistants, Except
Payroll and Timekeeping**

O*NET-SOC#
51-9082.00
43-4031.02
43-3051.00
29-2052.00
51-9131.03
51-5023.01
43-9081.00
41-4011.03
43-6014.00
43-9111.00
23-2093.01
107

O*NET-SOC Title
Medical Appliance Technicians**
Municipal Clerks**
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks**
Pharmacy Technicians**
Photographic Hand Developers
Precision Printing Workers**
Proofreaders and Copy Markers**
Sales Representatives,
Electrical/Electronic**
Secretaries, Except Legal, Medical, andExecutive**
Statistical Assistants
Title Searchers**

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

WORKING CONDITIONS-JOB ZONE 3 (Medium Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC#
51-9071.04
51-9081.00
49-2092.01
49-2092.02
49-2097.00
19-4091.00
49-9041.00
49-9063.01
43-6012.00
49-9094.00
49-9062.00

O*NET-SOC Title
Bench Workers, Jewelry
Dental Laboratory Technicians
Electric Home Appliance and Power Tool
Repairers
Electric Motor and Switch Assemblers andRepairers
Electronic Home Entertainment Equipment
Installers and Repairers
Environmental Science and Protection
Technicians, Including HealthIndustrial Machinery Mechanics
Keyboard Instrument Repairers and Tuners
Legal Secretaries
Locksmiths and Safe Repairers
Medical Equipment Repairers

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
29-2071.00 Medical Records and Health Information
Technicians
51-9071.03 Model and Mold Makers, Jewelry
51-4012.00 Numerical Tool and Process Control
Programmers
49-9063.04 Percussion Instrument Repairers andTuners51-9131.02 Photographic Reproduction Technicians
51-9083.01 Precision Lens Grinders and Polishers
49-2021.00 Radio Mechanics
47-2031.04 Ship Carpenters and Joiners
51-6052.01 Shop and Alteration Tailors
49-9063.02 Stringed Instrument Repairers and Tuners
49-9064.00 Watch Repairers

WORKING CONDITIONS-JOB ZONE 4 (Considerable Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC#
13-2011.01
45-2011.00
13-2021.01
13-2011.02
13-2031.00
49-9061.00
13-1051.00
49-2011.02
43-9031.00
51-5022.09

O*NET-SOC Title
Accountants
Agricultural Inspectors
Assessors
Auditors
Budget Analysts
Camera and Photographic Equipment
Repairers
Cost Estimators
Data Processing Equipment Repairers
Desktop Publishers
Electronic Masking System Operators

O*NET-SOC#
51-9131.04
13-2061.00
49-9021.01
23-2092.00
23-2011.00
51-5022.02
11-9131.00
11-3061.00
49-9063.03
51-5022.05

O*NET-SOC Title
Film Laboratory Technicians
Financial Examiners
Heating and Air Conditioning Mechanics
Law Clerks
Paralegals and Legal Assistants
Paste-Up Workers
Postmasters and Mail Superintendents
Purchasing Managers
Reed or Wind Instrument Repairers andTunersScanner Operators

WORKING CONDITIONS-JOB ZONE 5 (Extensive Preparation Needed)
O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
15-2011.00 Actuaries
23-1021.00 Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators,
and Hearing Officers**
23-1022.00 Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators**
19-1021.01 Biochemists***
19-1021.02 Biophysicists***
29-1011.00 Chiropractors***
19-3031.03 Counseling Psychologists***
108

O*NET-SOC# O*NET-SOC Title
23-1023.00 Judges, Magistrate Judges, andMagistrates***53-6051.03 Marine Cargo Inspectors**
51-5023.02 Offset Lithographic Press Setters and SetUp Operators**
19-2012.00 Physicists***
51-5022.11 Plate Finishers**
11-1011.02 Private Sector Executives***DOL Career and Credential Exploration
51-5022.08
49-2095.00
51-5022.10
51-5021.00

Participant Guide

Dot Etchers
Electrical and Electronics Repairers,
Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay**
Electrotypers and Stereotypers**
Job Printers29-1066.00
11-3031.01
29-1131.00

Psychiatrists***
Treasurers, Controllers, and Chief Financial
Officers**
Veterinarians***** Indicates that the occupation was assigned to the group based on its second highest work value.
*** Indicates that the occupation was assigned to the group based on its third highest work value.

109

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

7.2

Participant Guide Job Training — Employees in theseoccupations need anywhere from a few
months to one year of working withexperienced employees.

Job Zone Definitions

Job Zone 1: Little or No Preparation Needed Examples — These occupations often
involve using your knowledge and skills
to help others. Examples include drywall
installers, fire inspectors, flightattendants, pharmacy technicians, retailsalespersons, and tellers.

 Overall Experience — No previous workrelated skill, knowledge, or experience isneeded for these occupations. For
example, a person can become a general
office clerk even if he/she has neverworked in an office before.
 Education — These occupations may
require a high school diploma or GED
certificate. Some may require a formal
training course to obtain a license.

Job Zone 3: Medium Preparation Needed Overall Experience — Previous workrelated skill, knowledge, or experience isrequired for these occupations. For
example, an electrician must havecompleted three or four years ofapprenticeship or several years ofvocational training, and often havepassed a licensing exam, in order toperform the job.

 Job Training — Employees in theseoccupations need anywhere from a few
days to a few months of training. Usually,an experienced worker could show you
how to do the job.
 Examples — These occupations involve
following instructions and helping others.
Examples include bus drivers, forest andconservation workers, general officeclerks, home health aides, andwaiters/waitresses.

 Education — Most occupations in thiszone require training in vocational
schools, related on-the-job experience, oran associate degree. Some may require abachelor’s degree.
 Job Training — Employees in theseoccupations usually need one or two
years of training involving both on-thejob experience and informal training withexperienced workers.

Job Zone 2: Some Preparation Needed Overall Experience — Some previous
work-related skill, knowledge, or
experience may be helpful in theseoccupations, but usually is not needed.
For example, a drywall installer might
benefit from experience installing
drywall, but an inexperienced person
could still learn to be an installer withlittle difficulty.

 Examples — These occupations usually
involve using communication andorganizational skills to coordinate,supervise, manage, or train others toaccomplish goals. Examples include
dental assistants, electricians, fish andgame wardens, legal secretaries,
personnel recruiters, and recreation
workers.

 Education — These occupations usuallyrequire a high school diploma and may
require some vocational training or jobrelated course work. In some cases, anassociate or bachelor’s degree could beneeded.

110

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

Job Zone 5: Extensive Preparation Needed

Job Zone 4: Considerable Preparation Needed Overall Experience — Extensive skill,
knowledge, and experience are needed
for these occupations. Many require
more than five years of experience. For
example, surgeons must complete four
years of college and an additional five toseven years of specialized medical
training to be able to do their job.

 Overall Experience — A minimum of two
to four years of work-related skill,
knowledge, or experience is needed forthese occupations. For example, anaccountant must complete four years ofcollege and work for several years inaccounting to be considered qualified.
 Education — Most of these occupations
require a four-year bachelor’s degree,
but some do not.

 Education — A bachelor’s degree is theminimum formal education required forthese occupations. However, many also
require graduate school. For example,
they may require a master’s degree, andsome require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (lawdegree).

 Job Training — Employees in theseoccupations usually need several years ofwork-related experience, on-the-job
training, and/or vocational training.
 Examples — Many of these occupations
involve coordinating, supervising,managing, or training others. Examples
include accountants, chefs and headcooks, computer programmers,
historians, and police detectives.

 Job Training — Employees may needsome on-the- job training, but most ofthese occupations assume that theperson will already have the required
skills, knowledge, work-related
experience, and/or training.
 Examples — These occupations often
involve coordinating, training,supervising, or managing the activities ofothers to accomplish goals. Veryadvanced communication andorganizational skills are required.
Examples include lawyers, instrumental
musicians, physicists, counselingpsychologists, and surgeons.

111DOL Career and Credential Exploration

7.3

Participant Guide
ACTIVE-DUTY RESOURCES AND OPPORTUNITIESWebsite Guide•

Community College of the Air Force:
www.airuniversity.af.mil/Barnes/CCAF/•

Credentialing Opportunities On-Line for activeduty Service Members (by branch of service):

ACCREDITATION•

Accredited online website to search for vocational
school’s admission and completion rates:www.accreditedschoolsonline.org/vocationaltrade-school/•

Better Business Bureau website to search forcomplaints against the institution:www.bbb.org•

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau website tosearch for complaints against the intuition:www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint/•

Council for Higher Education Accreditation and US
Department of Education list of recognizedaccrediting organizations:www.chea.org/•

Federal Trade Commission advice on choosing a
vocational school:www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0241-choosingvocational-school•

U.S. Department of Education information
educational institutions accreditation:
https://ope.ed.gov/dapip/#/home•

U.S. Department of Education information about
diploma mills:
https://www2.ed.gov/students/prep/college/di
plomamills/diploma-mills.html•

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs WEAMS
Institution Search. Check to see if the school isapproved to accept VA benefits:www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/school_locator.asp•

VA-approved non-degree schools or certificate
program finder:
www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/school_locator.asp

112o

U.S. Army credentialing opportunities online
website www.cool.osd.mil/army/oDepartment of the Navy credentialing
opportunities online website
www.cool.navy.mil/usn/oU.S. Marine Corps credentialing opportunities
online website www.cool.navy.mil/usmc/

oU.S. Air Force credentialing opportunities
online website
https://afvec.us.af.mil/afvec/Public/COOL/oCoast Guard credentialing opportunities
online website www.cool.osd.mil/uscg/•

Voluntary Education - information related toattending college while still on active duty:
www.dantes.doded.mil•

DoD SkillBridge overview of program
requirements and eligibility:www.dodskillbridge.com•

United Services Military Apprenticeship Program(USMAP) information and instructions:
https://usmap.netc.navy.mil/usmapss/static/ind
ex.htm•Free online classes:• www.coursera.org• http://www.edx.org/• www.linkedin.com/learning

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

AMERICAN JOB CENTER•

U.S. Department of Labor online portal for
Veterans; Click “Find a Job” and enter yourlocation in the “American Job Center Finder”:
www.veterans.gov/•

My Next Move for Veterans search by keyword,industry, MOS:
www.mynextmove.org/vets/•

Reverse civilian to military skill translator (forbusiness seeking to recruit Veterans):
www.careeronestop.org/BusinessCenter/Toolkit/toolkit

APPRENTICESHIP•CERTIFICATION

Apprenticeship USA Toolkit answers to FAQ’s
about apprenticeships:
www.apprenticeship.gov•

Department of Labor Employment and Training
Administration general information about
apprenticeships: www.apprenticeship.gov•

Department of Labor Employment and Training
Administration four ways to find and apply toapprenticeships:
www.dol.gov/general/topic/training/apprentice
ship•

COLLEGEASSESSMENT••

CareerScope®:
https://dol-vets.careerscope.net/assessment•

CareerOneStop guide to colleges:www.careeronestop.org/FindTraining/Types/college.aspx•

College Navigator school search tool with detailed
school data:
nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/•

U.S. Department of Education guide to choosing aschool:studentaid.gov/resources/prepare-forcollege/students/choosing-schools•

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs guide tochoosing a school:www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/docs/factsheets/Choosing_a_School.pdf

O*NET Interest Profiler:
www.mynextmove.org/explore/ip

CAREER COUNSELING•VA Chapter 36 Educational and Career Counselingbenefits:www.va.gov/careers-employment/educationand-career-counseling/

CREDENTIALINGCAREER EXPLORATION•

Browse careers using the 16-career clusters:
www.onetonline.org/find/career•

Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook
Handbook provides occupation descriptions:www.bls.gov/ooh/•

O*NET military-to-civilian occupation translator:
www.onetonline.org/crosswalk/MOC/

The CareerOneStop Certification Finder tool canidentify available certifications by keyword or by
occupation:www.careeronestop.org/Toolkit/Training/findcertifications.aspx

113•

CareerOneStop education and training finder for
Veterans:
www.careeronestop.org/Veterans/BackToSchool/back-to-school.aspx•

CareerOneStop training finder:
www.careeronestop.org/FindTraining/findtraining.aspx

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

INTERNSHIPS•••

AmeriCorps program descriptions and application
for national community service opportunities:
www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps
USAJOBS Pathways for federal government
internships:
www.usajobs.gov/StudentsAndGrads
U.S. Chamber of Commerce internshipopportunities:
www.uschamber.com/aboutus/careers/internship-opportunities

The National Labor Exchange (NLx) database of
job openings in public, private, and nonprofit
sector organizations:
https://usnlx.com/•

CareerOneStop, a great resource for career
exploration, training and jobs:
www.careeronestop.org/JobSearch/jobsearch.aspx••

CareerOneStop links to up-to-date industry
trends, career trends, occupation profiles,
business finder and job finder tools:
www.careeronestop.org/•

O*NET data on emerging careers; including
descriptions, outlook, wages and relevant indemand technologies:
www.onetonline.org/

The CareerOneStop License Finder tool can help
you determine if an occupation is licensed in astate and provide links to the state agency
website for information on requirements and how
to apply:
www.careeronestop.org/Toolkit/Training/findlicenses.aspx

TECHNOLOGY•

U.S. Department of Labor Veteran’s portal; click
link to find jobs:
www.veterans.gov/

CareerOneStop alphabetical list of “hot”
technologies:
www.onetonline.org/search/hot_tech/

TRANSITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAMUSAJOBS.gov houses most federal job vacancy
announcements:
www.usajobs.gov/•

TAP Virtual Curriculum:
https://tapevents.org/courses•

Small Business Administration website has
resources for Veterans who want to start theirown businesses:
www.SBA.gov/bootstobusiness

Joint Services Transcript information and access:jst.doded.mil/smart/signIn.do

USMAP

LABOR MARKET INFORMATION•••JOINT SERVICES TRANSCRIPT (JST)•Bureau of Labor Statistics resources forjobseekers:
www.bls.gov/audience/jobseekers.htm

LICENSINGJOB SEARCH ENGINE•••

Bureau of Labor Statistics site for comprehensive
and up-to-date LMI; provides deep dive intocurrent economic situation in the United States:www.bls.gov/

114

United Services Military Apprenticeship Program(USMAP) information and instructions:
usmap.netc.navy.mil/usmapss/static/index.htm

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

VA BENEFITS AND PROGRAMS••

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs comparison
tool for finding estimated benefits by school orprogram:www.va.gov/gi-bill-comparison-tool
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs summary of
GI Bill programs. Click on any of the “types oftraining” from the list to see details on benefits,
eligibility, and links to payment rates:
www.va.gov/education/about-gi-billbenefits/post-9-11/•

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs GI Bill
information for degree granting institutions:www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/higher_learning.asp•

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs GI Bill
information for vocational/technical training:www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/non_college_degree.
asp

VETERANS’ RESOURCES•

Small Business Administration has resources for
Veterans who want to start their own businesses:
www.SBA.gov/bootstobusiness•

U.S. Department of Labor online portal for
Veterans; Click “Find a Job” and enter yourlocation in the “American Job Center Finder”:
www.veterans.gov/•

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs explanationof work-study program:
www.va.gov/education/about-gi-billbenefits/how-to-use-benefits/work-study/•

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs GI Bill
benefits for licensing and certification:www.va.gov/education/about-gi-billbenefits/how-to-use-benefits/test-fees/•

Veterans Benefits Administration information
about Veterans’ benefits, including education andtraining:
www.va.gov/education/•

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs information
about the Yellow Ribbon program, including links
to see which schools participate and current
payment rates:
www.va.gov/education/about-gi-billbenefits/post-9-11/yellow-ribbon-program/•

Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E):
www.va.gov/careers-employment/vocationalrehabilitation/•

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs GI Bill
benefits for apprenticeships or OJT:
www.va.gov/education/about-gi-billbenefits/how-to-use-benefits/on-the-jobtraining-apprenticeships/

115

DOL Career and Credential Exploration

Participant Guide

https://dodsurveys.mil/tgpsp/

116