From Combat Boots to Cloud Careers: How Veterans Can Win the Resume Game

At Cloud Veterans, we know that transitioning from military to civilian life isn’t just about learning cloud skills — it’s also about learning how to talk about those skills in the language of today’s tech employers.

One of the biggest barriers we see veterans face?

Resumes that get lost in translation.

🎖️ Military Experience is Valuable — But It Must Be Understood

As a veteran, you’ve led teams, managed complex operations, and handled high-pressure environments — exactly the traits employers want.

But here's the catch:

If your resume is filled with military acronyms, titles, and jargon, most civilian hiring managers (and applicant tracking systems) won’t get it.

For example:

“Platoon Sergeant overseeing 40 personnel” becomes

→ "Operations Manager leading cross-functional teams of 40+"

“Maintained mission-critical equipment under combat conditions”

→ "Ensured uptime of high-availability systems in demanding environments"

Your resume isn't just a record — it’s your marketing pitch. And if it’s not customized to speak the language of the job you're applying for, it won’t make it past the first filter.

🧠 Customize Your Resume for Every Application

Yes, every single one.

We know it’s tempting to send out the same resume 50 times. But most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) — software that scans resumes for keywords related to the job description.

If your resume doesn’t match those keywords, it gets tossed before a human even sees it.

✅ What You Should Do:

Study the job description and mirror its language in your resume

Highlight relevant cloud skills and certifications (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP)

Use action verbs and translate military duties into outcomes and metrics

Avoid generic military titles — be specific and civilian-friendly

Think of your resume as your personal landing page. Each version should reflect the exact needs of the position you're applying for.

🔗 Leverage LinkedIn: Your Referral Pipeline

Want to skip the black hole of online applications?

Use LinkedIn as your shortcut.

Instead of applying through a company’s website and hoping for the best, check your connections first. Someone in your network may already work there — or know someone who does.

🔍 Try this:

1. Go to the company’s LinkedIn page

2. Click “People”

3. See if you have 1st or 2nd-degree connections

4. Reach out for a warm introduction or internal referral

   
   

Referrals increase your chances of getting interviewed by up to 400%. Don’t underestimate the power of someone vouching for you inside the company.

💬 Final Word

Veterans bring unmatched discipline, loyalty, and grit to the workforce — but that story needs to come through clearly and strategically on your resume.

Translate your military experience. Customize for every role. Tap your network.

And if you need help doing that, Cloud Veterans is here for you.

We offer free resume reviews, coaching, and job placement support as part of our mission to help you thrive in the tech industry.

👨‍💻 Join the movement at cloudveterans.org