March 28th, 2025
Dear Readers,
In the most recent episode of The Modern Republic, I briefly discussed the idea that more high school students should consider joining the military or some other form of civic service before entering the workforce or continuing their education.
I thought now would be a great time to break down what that might actually look like.
All branches of the United States armed forces have many different nonofficer careers and jobs that don’t require combat.
While joining any branch would require you to undergo basic training, which would necessitate combat instruction, that doesn’t mean you would be on the front lines or in an active war zone. Quite the opposite, actually, with approximately 15% of enlisted U.S. military personnel assigned to combat roles, while the remaining 85% serve in non-combat positions.
These positions include jobs like:
Logistics and Supply Chain Specialist- Manage all types of inventory, ensure supplies are distributed where needed, and oversee the maintenance of critical equipment. This role ensures that units always have the resources necessary to operate smoothly, providing hands-on experience in logistics, operations management, and the inner workings of military support.
Information Technology and Communications Specialist- Support and maintain computer networks, communication systems, and cybersecurity protocols to ensure smooth and secure operations. The military provides in-depth training in current IT practices and technologies. It offers a solid foundation for those entering the field right after high school, with opportunities to work on cutting-edge systems.
Vehicle and Equipment Repair Technician- Specializes in maintaining and repairing a wide range of military vehicles and essential equipment, from trucks to advanced machinery, ensuring they’re always ready for use. The military provides extensive technical training, teaching recruits how to troubleshoot, repair, and perform regular maintenance on complex systems. This hands-on experience not only helps develop valuable mechanical skills but also prepares individuals for a range of roles in both the military and civilian sectors.
These are just a handful of the kinds of jobs the military offers. Not only do these jobs come with training, but they are also highly applicable to the workforce or even the pursuit of a bachelor’s or master’s degree later down the road.
The most understated benefit of joining the military before college is the Tuition Assistance (TA) program, which provides financial support for service members' voluntary off-duty education.
This program typically covers up to 100% of tuition costs, although it's important to note that TA is primarily intended for courses taken during active service. However, some branches may allow recruits to use TA for courses before reporting for duty, provided certain conditions are met.
Additionally, the Army offers Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) scholarships for high school students planning to attend college. These scholarships can cover full tuition for up to four years, a textbook allowance, and a monthly stipend.
Many find that the few years directly following high school can be filled with wasted time and bad decisions; joining the military and learning a skill or trade can give young people a life meaning. Not to mention that there are many U.S. military bases in very desirable locations around the globe. This could also give young people the opportunity to experience other cultures in a way that benefits them and the country they are serving.
Share this with a student about to graduate high school who may not know what they want to do! This is a great option that more students and young people should consider.
