Thaddeus Fitzpatrick ⋅ South Milwaukee, WI U.S. Marine Corps, Corporal ⋅ 4 years served

Hello Mr. Molluro,
Thank you for your words of advice however, I am not saying I am to old nor am I saying I don't have the skills to aquire a career. I am asking for input on careers because, I have come across so many career opportunities that have age restrictions attached to them. Going back to school is always an excellent choice when a advancement in a career is at hand or to be considered for a career opportunity. I'm looking for advice on other avenues of possible careers. Where age isn't viewed as a set back & the lack of immediate experience doesn't disqualify you. I am in no way limiting my beliefs as to my self worth or value to any company that is why I am here to get input into other directionside I may not have thought of. I hope this clears up what I'm looking for or expecting to possibly find.

To the many others who have given their advice and input I hope this answers clarifies my career search but, thank you one and all for your wise words.

Henry ("Dr. Hank") Stevens ⋅ Fort Lauderdale, FL Human Resources Quality Assurance, LLC (Now Retired) ⋅ 50 years experience

There is an adage in supervision that goes something like this: "People will do what you want them to do, when what they do is what they want to do." Turn that theme on its ear and explore not only what you WANT to do but what you are good at - not necessarily what you have done before.

One of the other advisors suggested "WHAT COLOR IS YOUR PARACHUTE." I second that nomination - awesome advice! In addition, here is an online assessment tool that will help you appreciate what you are good at, like, and therefore show you where your talents are located. Identify your talents and locate a CAREER that will give you the most exposure to exercising those talents.

Skills and experience can be learned. Talent is something you either have or not.

Michael Apt ⋅ Bend, OR MJ Enterprises ⋅ 23 years experience

Hello, Thaddeus!
Thanks for trusting your situation to ACP advisors. We are merely humans hoping to help out.

A 3051 warehousemen may do a veritable constellation of duties, from the fun of forklift use, to checking other supply chain continuities not part of the local, near, chain. Trust is paramount, physical or factual or cyber. The whole world needs all these kinds of capacities and persons. Organization methods you have learned are not necessarily available widely in the private realm. Also, our nation is risked as pretty much every private confidential move are immediately lost to the cyber realm, lots of people to help if you can, if that is your thing. For example, wizened elders are made to be mute, largely, as lack of confidentiality gags them, which is very bad for the young, and the nation, and the world.

Looking back, (plenty of gray here) the things I dreamt, hoped, feared, thought would be tolerable, intolerable, even at the age of 10, as far as career goes, came true. There is no certainty your results will compare, maybe I was .... lucky .... . However, your career is something you choose, if you can, assuming you want maximum efficacy, satisfaction, pleasure, motivation from doing something day in and out.

I encourage you to look back, early age as you can, even list on a paper page what you hoped for, and what you feared to do with your life. Leave the page around for a little while, to jot tiny notes as days pass. Make a funnel of things you know about yourself, this will point you towards what job(s) your career should involve.

Unseen, the capacities you maintain, ideally those which others do not have in abundance, will reveal themselves on that single page because we excel in what we focus upon, what we dream of to pass the time- even when at work. I bet we both did a lot of daydreaming at times during work to pass the time when those inevitable ... hurry up and wait ... days occur. Tap into that preoccupation- ask what you found satisfaction in thinking about because FMRI (medical imaging) shows ones brain ... pops ... very similarly when thinking, or doing, an activity. Ask yourself what reliably made your motor run. Watch for things you told yourself you could not do for some reason in case the desire tips you to a pursuit that rewards AND satisfies you. A friend of mine is an arson investigator for this very reason. See?

As far as your age, It does not seem so old when looking from ten years older. There is another kind of ...career age... to consider. Older persons seek a bridge to younger, more cyber able, technically able, persons. No technology mystifies the elders more thorough than computer use, security, implementation, so if you are 19 as far as your cyber technical skills go, I think you can, essentially, think of your career age as somewhere very between 45 and 19. You're 45 if your cyber technical, or internet, phone, PC, or integrated circuitry capacities are the same as the average 45 year old. The snowstorm of changes computers bring cannot be kept up with by elders, compare with the technique to make arrowheads out of obsidian and its technical development, our ancient elders had it much easier in this narrow respect- technology could be kept up with back then.

There are changes to federal government which may empower you. FedBizOpps has a YouTube three step process to do work, research, stuff, for government, a surprising, strong, reaction to the mountains of paperwork discouraging participation in the past.

The world is in an interesting, churning, flux- opportunity, hazards, abound. People need, seek those, who follow through, are reliable. Use that. Cultivate the reality and appearance of reliability if you can. I notice people get uncomfortable if my hands show I have been working on cars, but if someone is stranded by the roadside, they instantly overlook it, I take this to mean gentlemen act the way they do for the power it gives them by making others nearby comfortable and thus confident.

Best wishes.

Ken Hjerpe ⋅ Saint Petersburg, FL U.S. Navy, Petty Officer First Class ⋅ 11 years served

First off, your career as a warehousemen is one of many in the field of logistics. Not only did "warehouse" material, you did shipping and receiving, delivery and distribution, stock and inventory control. Think about it - yep you did all that. Now you have some of the skills you ned to translate into a career. Now, if you're looking at something else, then you'll have to go to a vocational skill school. If you want to get back into warehousing, you will probably now have to take courses in logisitcs. Logistics now encompasses: transportation, all the skills I listed above you possess, purchasing and procurement, requisitioning and ordering, accounting. The Navy has gotten rid of the old Storekeeper rating (I have a NEC of 2820 and 2814: Supply Financial Management) and replaced it with the rating of:
LOGISTICS SPECIALIST. This is because the rating encompasses alot more than just "box-kicking".

Beth Oneill ⋅ Lombard, IL DuPage Workforce ⋅ 15 years experience

Hi Thaddeus,

I would suggest you take a strong interest survey and it will come up with careers, based on your interests You can do this at a community college in their career services dept. it is very inexpensive ...$25, if that. What came to my mind was a career as a probation officer at your local government, which would combine your military background with law enforcement and security. You have background in law enforcement, no doubt, integrity, discipline and many other skills. You sound like you need a bit of confidence to sell yourself to hiring authorities. A class at the community college would help, perhaps speech, or composition. Employers like life long learners. Got my degree at 55 and still work and also help people. The answer to your career question is in you. Thank you for your service.

Beth Oneill

Joel Padua ⋅ Aurora, IL HIFE- Heartland Institute of Financial Education ⋅ 5 years experience

Thank you for your service, We're building a new industry about financial literacy, if you want to know more you can email me personally so I can explain to you more
Joel2412@icloud.com

Diane Shaheen ⋅ Lee, MA Private Estate ⋅ 25 years experience

Good morning, Thaddeus,
I work in a very specialized market of private household management; it has been my decades long career. With your military and security background you may want to consider a position as a chauffeur/security for a family or CEO, some estates have armed guards on staff. I see that you live in Milwaukee, there is an agency, Mahler Enterprises-Private Staffing division. Just to look and see if you would even be interested in that line of work.
There is a school, Starkey International, Colorado, where you take a month long course to learn how to work within someone's home in a personal and professional manner. Whether they still offer it, I believe they used to have avenues for funding, directed at former military personnel to take the course. Plus, there are other similar programs if this seems interesting to you.

Good luck,
Diane Shaheen

Diana C. Navratil ⋅ La Quinta, CA Freedom 4 YOU Life Coaching ⋅ 10 years experience

First and foremost YOU ARE YOUNG and bring a wealth of knowledge along with your life experiences, this sets you apart from others. Ask your self the following:

1. What is my vision and purpose in finding a Career and NOT a job?

2. What has me thinking about my first choice...My sense is you already know what you want to pursue as a Career / your passion...

3. What is stopping me from getting what I say I want.

Diana CPC

James Brogan ⋅ Gretna, NE U.S. Air Force, Technical Sergeant ⋅ 11 years served

Thaddeus, sent you an inMail on LinkedIn...

Elizabeth Peak ⋅ Charlottesville, VA College of William and Mary ⋅ 40 years experience

Have you considered jobs where there's a lot of people management and moving perishable items? I'm thinking of jobs in managing stocking grocery stores like Whole Foods. I doubt your skill set will directly transfer but in terms of timely planning, organizing and management it might work. Also this company has great benefits for employees.

Derek Ricke ⋅ Lake Forest, CA U.S. Army, Captain ⋅ 10 years served

I would count your warehouse experience as a key to getting in the door into any company that does any sort of product, they all need some kind of warehousing... Target a specific company, get in the door through the skills you have, build relationships with people who have the career you want, find out if you really want that, and build the skills on the side. If they know you are actively pursuing getting better at exactly what they're advising you to do, you are sure to get favorable consideration when an opening comes along.

The hardest part is figuring out what you want to do.

Debbie Lang ⋅ Milwaukee, WI AT&T ⋅ 20 years experience

Hello Thaddeus,

I wasn't sure from your message if you did more of security work or warehouse work in the military. If you did warehouse work would you consider a place like UPS or FedEx? Those are good places to get your foot in the door and work your way to a supervisory role if that is an interest. Also, close to you is a new operation of ULINE opening soon which will have lots of job opportunities.
https://www.uline.com for career opps https://sjobs.brassring.com/TGWebHost/home.aspx?partnerid=26155&siteid=5137

Good luck!
Debbie

DF Jackson ⋅ Washington, DC U.S. Air Force, Senior Airman ⋅ 4 years served

Try Paralegal Certification. I just saw your 2 years Criminal Justice. Paralegals are hot.

Of course, a Police Officer is obvious. Stay with the Reserve for benefits. God Bless again.

DF Jackson ⋅ Washington, DC U.S. Air Force, Senior Airman ⋅ 4 years served

Try Costco, Starbucks, Coca-Cola, Oracle. These companies are interested in Veterans. Might want to get a Project Management Certification in Logistics. Might be good for Warehouse Logistics Management. Try Online or Community College. God Bless

Monty Crandon ⋅ Tucson, AZ Inpro ⋅ 25 years experience

There are many companies out there with strong and continued growth. Do research on companies with over 400 plus employees in your area or where you would like to relocate. See what they offer, what their expansion has been over the last 8/10 years. Companies on a strong growth path always have openings to get in and then work diligently to pursue new opportunities once you have establised yourself. There is a company in Muskego, Wisconsin that has had such a successful trend and there are people who have started in the warehouse and eventually moved up to new postions and great career paths.

Another suggestion is meet with companies that you are interested in. Try and set a meeting with the manager or supervisor to interview them. Telling them up front that you not asking for a job, as a recent veteren you only want to learn more of what the job market is like with companies like theirs, to better understand their company and why they have been successful. I know this may sound a bit different but if you are lucky enough to get such a meeting it provides two things. If they are impressed with you then you may get an oppotunity to interview, if not they may at least if you ask, tell you of other companies that fit your interest and maybe use them as a reference. And it never hurts to leave them a resume.

Good luck on your future.

Paul Trejo ⋅ Austin, TX University of Texas at Austin ⋅ 40 years experience

Firstly, Thaddeus Fitzpatrick, many thanks for your years of service.

Next, as to your question, it is one of the best I have seen in my years of experience in the AdvisorNet.

Every American citizen should seek a career instead of a job -- if at all possible. Everybody has heard of foreigners, say, from Vietnam, who came to the USA as refugees and could not speak English and had no high-school diploma. In ten years time, however, even with these limited skills, some of these refugees owned strong, thriving businesses.

America is designed for business people.

One does not need a college degree -- or even a high-school degree to own a business in the USA. However, not everybody can do it. Usually, the skill is passed on from parent to child. (That is why even a high school diploma is not needed.)

In fact, even if people have college diplomas, that is no guarantee that they have the skills necessary to own their own businesses.

The skill is generally passed from parent to child -- and that is mainly because the discipline needed to own a business is best taught from childhood. Working on a family business from childhood teaches more than meets the eye.

I myself did not have this privileged childhood, so I had to learn the hard way -- but anybody can learn these skills if they try. There are seven subordinate skills that correspond to the seven divisions of any business -- large or small. They are:

1. Stockholding (the original capital)
2. Human Resources (hiring and firing and discipline)
3. Sales (one customer at a time)
4. Accounting (which is standard around the world; including tax withholding)
5. Production (which is unique to each company)
6. Marketing (based on surveys of customers who have tried your product)
7. Advertising (to the raw public)

This model applies to a one-man hot dog stand, to a family restaurant, to an import-export warehouse, to a software startup, to a bank, to a car dealership, to a legal firm, a hospital, or ANYTHING.

In summary, to have a career, Thaddeus, a person must learn these seven skills.

If a person doesn't have these seven skills, then his or her business will probably fail. Perhaps the easiest way to get these seven skills would be to spend seven years by working at entry-level positions in each of these seven departments in different companies. Another way would be to take courses at night school or community college.

Accounting is the only skill that really takes a lot of time to master. Anybody can place an ad, or hire an actor to make a commercial. Anybody can go around taking surveys. Most people have the patience to sell something to another person. Many people have the courage to hire and fire people. Most people have been on a production line of some kind.

Accounting is the one skill that needs to be studied.

So, Thaddeus, there's my opinion -- there are the seven skills needed for anybody in America to have a career instead of a job.

Best wishes,
--Paul Trejo

Juan Carlos Cruz ⋅ Pompano Beach, FL Britwater Financial Group ⋅ 20 years experience

First you must define what a career is to you. What do you like to do? What are you passionate about? What would you leap out of bed for? What would you love to do. Clearly define that and you'll have your career. People that have careers (at least I hope) are people who are doing what they love. It's how they stay doing what they do for so long. A career is created. You don't apply for it. If you wish to speak on this matter in more details please kindly advise. May you continue to be blessed.

Maria Walters ⋅ Glendale, AZ Everest College Phoenix ⋅ 20 years experience

You should first determine what you are truly passionate about. A good book to help you with that is "What Color is your Parachute." Until you are working to fulfill your passion you will always have a job instead of a career. Once you know, talk to others who are in that field, network, offer your time even as a volunteer, ask for help from your current leaders. Find a mentor.
I got out in 95 as a fighter crew chief and worked as a warehouse manager, without ever having set foot on a warehouse prior to that, for almost 8 years until my big break came. I am now in higher education administration and love my job, but I wouldn't be as successful if I hadn't spent those years adding tools to my proverbial toolbox. Think about the aspects of your current job that you enjoy and are good at. Then figure out what other jobs have those aspects in higher concentration. Those are transferable skills that can help you reframe your approach. Highlight those things in your resume and sell yourself on those points as you embark in your search.
All the best of luck to you and thank you for your service, sir!

Les Dunaway ⋅ Acworth, GA Transamerica Financial Advisors ⋅ 15 years experience

Thaddeus,

If you'd like to consider a career (that's all we have ;-) with our firm, I can set you up with at contact in your area.

Let's talk first to see if we are a fit for you.

Text me at 770-490-7546 to set a time to talk. This weekend is OK if that's better for you.

Les Dunaway

Sean OShea ⋅ Palos Heights, IL BMC Software Inc. ⋅ 25 years experience

Thaddeus, Thank you for your service! We are all indebted to you. After I read your note I began piecing together some ideas for my suggestions and I read the responses already submitted (many excellent recommendations) and I'd like to put my encouragement behind the thoughts from Karen Shockley. So I will restate/slightly adjust her very practical ideas here. " I want to encourage you to have an attitude of gratitude. (as someone who has interviewed hundreds of people, I can tell you that this will drive 80% of your success) It is contagious. Security seems to be your current experiential strength, so short-term I would recommend that you find a job in that field to keep the bills paid. With a great attitude, you will separate yourself from the pack and therefore should have no problem in this day and age where everyone is beefing up security. This will allow you to think about your passion. There has been something that you have enjoyed doing since childhood. Search your soul, pray, meditate and think about what you truly enjoy doing... that is your first clue into a "career". Just because you like drawing, doesn't mean you should pursue being an artist. It does guide you to working possibly for an art gallery. Maybe start out as their security guard or forklift operator and let everyone know that you would like to manage the facility one day. Then, expect it and start acting like it! Art is just an example, but hopefully you see where I am headed. Good luck my friend and here's to a successful 2017!

June R Massoud ⋅ Burlington, VT School Boards/Teaching, Tutoring Business and Technical Business ⋅ 25 years experience

I think you need a complete view of your entire life. I've read the David Bach books of the Finish Rich series and he tells us, it's not how much money we earn that makes us rich, but rather, our overall habits of spending money in addition to how we invest. So it's okay to have a career, as long as you're not slaving away in the career and not making good money. Sometimes blue collar jobs are more in demand than white collar ones and they pay just as well. A guy who is quite good at working with manual labor could make good money, as opposed to one who is in IT competing with youth.

martin kelly ⋅ Wilmington, DE ISM Insurance, Inc. ⋅ 30 years experience

Hi Thaddeus!

Two quick thoughts; the first obvious. You know hat you're passionate about - look for a job that speaks to that!

Then, "Strength Finders" is an interesting book and way to look "under the hood", to see what you may be good at/care about, that may be less obvious to you

Best,

Martin

BTW - Thanks for your service!!

michael convey ⋅ Longboat Key, FL JH Williams Oil Co ⋅ 42 years experience

Thank you for your service. My father was a WW11 veteran, who fought in the war Okinawa. I am extremely proud of his efforts. I think there are opportunities with your background in your current field, especially in large companies or companies that manufacturer or ship materials that can be used as explosives. Companies that deal with large inventories are other potential suitors. The internet can usually provide this type of information. Many companies have websites that identify potential jobs within their organizations. Monster.com and other websites can be used to find employment opportunities. If you would like to change careers, determine what you would like to do, after discussing it with a counselor, to determine education and experience requirements. If you can do it, you may want to consider going back to school to acquire education requirements in your field of interest

michael convey ⋅ Longboat Key, FL JH Williams Oil Co ⋅ 42 years experience

Thank you for your service. My father was a WW11 veteran, who fought in the war Okinawa. I am extremely proud of his efforts. I think there are opportunities with your background in your current field, especially in large companies or companies that manufacturer or ship materials that can be used as explosives. Companies that deal with large inventories are other potential suitors. The internet can usually provide this type of information. Many companies have websites that identify potential jobs within their organizations. Monster.com and other websites can be used to find employment opportunities. If you would like to change careers, determine what you would like to do, after discussing it with a counselor, to determine education and experience requirements. If you can do it, you may want to consider going back to school to acquire education requirements in your field of interest

Richard Ashe ⋅ Houston, TX Veteran Franchise Advisers ⋅ 30 years experience

Hi Thaddeus,

Have you considered starting a business of your own. Franchising provides an opportunity to start a career with the support of a established company. Franchises provide training and know how while helping you build a company of your own. Franchises do require investment, hard work to get started and can be rewarding and a means to build equity for you and your family.

If this is an option you would like to explore we can help educate you and determine if franchising is a career path for you. www.veteranfranchiseadvisers.com.

michael delahunt ⋅ South Portland, ME frisbie hospital ⋅ 30 years experience

thaddeus-
I remember at the difficulties of choosing a career path 40 years ago. It is probably the hardest thing to come to grips with in a lifetime. One of the greatest resources I used at the time was a book called "what color is your parachute" by Richard Bolles. He is an amazing man with a lot of insight into what makes us tick. if you look on the Internet I believe you can find his diagrams. I highly recommend you're looking at his simple diagrams of which there are two that gives an insight into what could be a for finding a career – that is to say where are your passions- What are you like and what fits best for you. I recommend you look at two simple diagrams/exercises – one is called the party exercise where you decide what corner of the room you would prefer to be in, according to your personality type and then it further investigates those decisions with a hexagon figure which simply lists in further detail areas of work which follow those type personalities. Good luck with that. you're not alone -this is one of the things involved in finding ourselves which is quite a challenge. Mentors I think are invaluable. So many people that have developed a career from Bruce Springsteen to NASA engineers have all had someone that they were inspired by. Try to connect with his many people as you can and trying to get a sense of whether you seem like that person. Sometimes just the joy and passion that a person has for a field can be contagious and that alone can pull you in that direction. I have been an emergency department physician for 30 years and a lot of my choice had to do with being inspired by a mentor. Good luck – michael delahunt

Karen Shockley ⋅ Smyrna, GA Whey To Go LLC ⋅ 20 years experience

First, I want to thank you for your service. Second, I want to encourage you to have an attitude of gratitude. It is contagious. Security seems to be your strength, so short-term I would recommend that you find a job in that field to keep the bills paid. You should have no problem in this day and age where everyone is beefing up security. This will allow you to think about your passion. There has been something that you have enjoyed doing since childhood. Search your soul, pray, meditate and think about what you truly enjoy doing... that is your first clue into a "career". Just because you like drawing, doesn't mean you should pursue being an artist. It does guide you to working possibly for an art gallery. Maybe start out as their security guard and let everyone know that you would like to manage the facility one day. Then, start acting like it! Art is just an example, but hopefully you see where I am headed. Good luck my friend and here's to a successful 2017!

Bob Molluro ⋅ Wilmington, DE Benchmark Consulting Services ltd. ⋅ 30 years experience

Thaddeus, got it. Let me take another swing at the pitch. Here are my assumptions;
1) You are willing to think outside the box
2) You recognize that no matter what you choose it always involves people skills and communications
3) You have learned a lot and are willing to take on the tasks of learning a new profession
4) You always take responsibility for your situation and the results that are produced and rarely ever point the finger at others.
Here is one career that I happen to know a lot about- Financial Planner
All the major insurance carriers are looking for people. First there is an aging population of professionals who will retire over the next ten years. The demand for Financial Services Professionals is far greater than the supply. This problem is getting worse every day.
Many companies are willing to look at career changers since it is people skills and business experiences that make a significant difference.
Financial planning is all about helping people to have a better retirement, protection for their family and loved ones once they pass, minimizing taxes etc. If you want to lead a life of significance this career may be an option.
The challenges are:
1) The first five years in the business are extremely demanding (working 60-70 hours per week is common). You may have a cash flow problem depending on your situation.
2) You will need to go through an extensive training program that will prepare you to pass the licensing requirements and know how to sell your products.
3) My best advice is to find a situation where you would be teamed with an experienced planner. This will increase your odds of making it substantially.
4) Most companies are hiring Millennials however they are not accustomed to hard work and dedication and besides having a college degree they don't bring much to the table. Many of them are not willing to do the hard work which is a major differentiator.
5) You will be expected to build a practice from scratch unless you get coupled with an experienced producer who has a significant book of business and needs help in meeting his service obligations to his clients.
6) If successful you will make a great living. I have personally worked with over 300 people who earn in excess of $1M annually. The benefits and retirement programs are excellent.
7) Because you are an African American and there are many African American business owners and that market is getting better every day. If you succeed you will find many people willing to deal with you because you are the same race. Success in this industry is based primary on being able to build trusting, deep relationships with people. If that is you then this is worth considering.
8) Getting that initial interview will be your first challenge. Research the available agencies within your preferred geography. Network until you find someone who is a part of that agency or who has a high level connection in that agency. Then befriend that person by allowing them to give you advice on the career opportunities and a direct assessment on whether or not you stack up. You need someone who can act as your ambassador to get you the interview.
That's a start. Let me know what other questions you may have. A 25 year career in Financial Services may be the answer you are looking for.

John Chamberlain ⋅ Coventry, RI MetLife ⋅ 34 years experience

Thaddeus,

As someone who has 35 years with my Company, I do qualify as someone who has had a successful career. I actually had a passion for accounting which is where I got my education, but my start with my company was a part time Job paying medical claims while I was still in school. It was a job they were willing to train me for and it was one that I found extremely challenging given the complexity of what I needed to learn.

When I started, there was such a thing as a career and the company cared as much about their employees future as the employees did. Unfortunately, that was a different time. People are now measured on the value they bring, and when that value stops coming or is no longer needed, parting ways is far more likely in todays workplace.

The good news is that because of this, Companies are always looking for new talent. You have been given plenty of good advice on how to sell the skills you have developed. My suggestion is to also consider what you would be good at and enjoy. Then look at all the job search sites you can find for jobs that fit that bill and apply, apply, apply.

When you are successful at finding a match, remember, do everything you can to distinguish yourself with your attitude, your results and your willingness to go above and beyond. If you land in a large company, those attributes will help you to move from job to job within that company. If you find a small company with little growth available, this will certainly help strengthen your resume.

One last suggestion, consider reaching out to temporary labor companies as well. Many companies use them for all sorts of skills and they are also another way to strengthen your resume.

Best of luck in your search.

John

Ken Hjerpe ⋅ Saint Petersburg, FL U.S. Navy, Petty Officer First Class ⋅ 11 years served

You had a career and you have skills. Use them to find work. You say you were a warehouseman - CAN YOU SAY LOGISTICS? Now, the market is very tight and I'm sad to say that more often than not, your veteran skills and status are frowned upon - as if you just worked for MIckyD or something like that. Get on O-Net and type in your MOS or your occupational title. Learn to embellish your skills - Instead of warehouseman - Warehouse Logisitcs Specialist sounds much more better. Loose the "military speak". You have education in crminal justice - you say you were a warehouseman - ever heard of shrinkage and workplace theft. Okay, with what I just told you now you can start selling yourself.

Bob Molluro ⋅ Wilmington, DE Benchmark Consulting Services ltd. ⋅ 30 years experience

Thaddeus there are many great suggestions. However let me zero in the primary area that you need to consider if you are going to turn things around. We are all a product of our thinking. That self talk that everyone has. When the self talk is posing the right questions the situations begin to open up that will get you on the right career track. Right now you are saying "I am too old no one will want me" or "I don't have the skills to expect better opportunities". Instead change that dialogue to "Why with my experience is it so easy for me to find the right career?" Then begin to be open to the answers you receive, the situations that are presented to you. Many people on this site have already given you some of the answers. So far your limiting beliefs are what are blocking you. You must take your limiting beliefs and change them into empowering beliefs. The answers will get you to begin to find the career you are seeking. More than likely your past experiences, especially those things that you enjoy have already provided some of the answers.

elizabeth ousley ⋅ Mount Airy, MD FDIC ⋅ 30 years experience

Hi Thaddeus,

If you have interests in the areas of physical security and criminal justice, you could explore Government employment options. Government agencies employ physical security personnel (e.g. DHS Federal Protective Service is a good point of reference). You may be able to leverage your experience in the military and your education in applying for these types of positions. Government agencies support hiring of vets and you might be eligible for veteran preference (there are specific eligibility requirements to receive veterans preference).

Pathways is another option that is designed as a Federal internship program. Students in an accredited education program (local community college, trade school, or other qualified institution) can apply for positions that are listed as Pathways. I have seen veteran and non-veteran students of various ages apply for positions through the Pathways program. There is no age limitation that I have seen. Pathways interns are eligible to be converted into permanent positions if a permanent position is available and they meet the requirements to merit the conversion. Information on the Pathways program is available through the OPM.gov website.

If you want to explore the types of Government jobs available in physical security, Pathways program, and other fields you can look at usajobs.gov. Looking at the jobs available and job requirements can help you assess your career interests. Good luck!

Louis Schwarz ⋅ Somerville, NJ AIG ⋅ 43 years experience

Career is a multi-meaning word, so be as flexible as the word. UPS, Federal Express, Amazon, USPS, and any delivery service business are all areas where you could start a career, from the bottom. That is the way it is until you prove differently, then doors start to open. Look into all the new robot delivery systems and see where you can fit. They all need dependable, flexible and open attitude staff. You have maturity and believability on your side, a very sought after quality in new staff. Experience is a great attribute, as long as it is not the same experience year after year with no growth. Online ordering and distribution are the careers of the future, and they are just getting started. Try and get in now. Also, self driving cars will be the transportation of tomorrow. They need management, maintenance and control. Look into getting in that business. Look into the tomorrow businesses to start a career, it may be easier than trying to break into existing businesses.
Good luck and keep your sense of humor. You know you have to bring it with you and keep it with you.

Cary Grossman ⋅ Houston, TX Shoreline Capital Advisors ⋅ 40 years experience

I think you might find that there are careers in either logistics/distribution and/or corporate security where your experience might be valuable. You may not be aware but many businesses have in-house security functions that depend on the nature of their business. For example Target would have security for both in the retail store and to protect against theft in their distribution centers, whereas a pure industrial type distribution company might only have security geared towards theft at their warehouses. It sounds like a combination of your military experience and your education in law enforcement could be applied to a corporate security role.

DeMonfort Carter ⋅ San Francisco, CA UPS ⋅ 25 years experience

You are on the right track by reaching out to others.

We here at United Parcel Service (UPS) do everything that you have expertise in. UPS is unique in that you can start out on a PT basis and move up if you have the desire/skill. I started here unloading trucks when I got out of the service. I had only planned to be here for 6 months but was promoted into management in 3 months of employment. Now 26 years later after I have managed almost every function in the company from Finance, Payroll, Accounting, Operations, Logistics, and the package car drivers.

In box me if you want to explore an opportunity here.

Gloria Brown ⋅ AVSP Consultant & Counseling Services ⋅ 20 years experience

I would focus on your interest and strengths rather than your age and unless you enjoyed what you did in the past, I would let it go. Consider taking an aptitude test to see what areas are best for you to focus on. Their are many available on line and some for free or inexpensive. Once you find something that interest you, be prepared to get training and certification. This could be a short training program if you are pressed for time. It's almost impossible to get a job unless you are certified in something.

Eeman Heisler ⋅ Woodstock, GA Keller Williams ⋅ 1 years experience

Hi Thaddeus! I completely understand where you are coming from. I'm a dental hygienist of 17 years. 2 years ago I felt like I needed more. I was looking for a change. That change led me to realize I wanted to be my own boss. The 9-5 typical job is on its way out, and the entrepreneur is arriving. That entrepreneurial spirit is a lot of times the reason you are questionin the "jobs" you've had. I encourage you to looking into being your own boss. I am now doing a home based business with a biotechnology company, where I am my own boss, and have time freedom and financial freedom. We are always looking to train others who might want to have a career like this from home. Message me if this might be something for you.

Jeremy Hancock ⋅ Salt Lake City, UT Goldman Sachs & Co ⋅ 5 years experience

Thaddeus,

You're on the right track by reaching out to others and doing your research. A job can grow into a career but you have to position yourself in a healthy "career growing" environment. Here are three things that I have learned:
1. You have to make yourself valuable to others. Learn functions or skills that people depend on, then become the expert. Be commercial about it too (let others know you can provide functional value).
2. Positivity goes a long way. Don't be fake, but also don't be negative. Emotions play a huge part in the decisions we make, big or small. Do your best to keep them in check.
3. Find a company that invests in its employees and is going to be around a while, then start saying YES. Take advantage of any opportunity you can find to get your foot in the door and showcase your skills.

All the best!

Susana Moraga ⋅ Hayward, CA California State University East Bay ⋅ 20 years experience

Thaddeus,
There are many resources to assist you to identify a career that you would be interested in pursuing, check out the Career Exploration information here and contact a local EDD/One Stop in your community.
You won't know what you are missing if you work from what you know, you need to expand your knowledge of how your transferable skills can be used in different settings and learn what additional skills will make you more marketable in the short and long term.
Best,

Robert Lamaster ⋅ Olivia, MN Kyndryl ⋅ 17 years experience

My advice would be to not over-think it. Careers have a way of finding you, not the other way around. Sure, you can plan your desired career path, but remember that many people end up on a path they weren't expecting when a random event happened. Set your sights on a line of work, and look for jobs with larger companies that do many different kinds of work.

As an example, I'll use my own history. I knew that I wanted to get into IT. Back in the Navy, I took every opportunity to get some skills, even though I was in nuclear engineering. When I got out of the Navy, I took a job as a customer services manager for a digital projector company, which had little to do with my IT goals. Getting laid off after only 2 months was ultimately my "random event". I took a low-paying job as an entry-level computer technician with a local school just to make ends meet. This gave me the skills to move up to a district-level job with a little better pay. I stayed there for 10 years and got a lot of great experience. This allowed me to jump to a corporate IT job that has become my career. Even at my company though, I've had several "random events" that moved me around in the IT world, putting me on a new path in my career. Could I have planned this? Not a chance.

The moral of my story is that we can plan things to death, but it often makes little difference. Like John said, the key is skills. Gather your skills and aim in a particular direction. There's no bull's-eye to hit to get a career. As you become more skilled, and with a willingness to change jobs, you'll naturally find your way into a career, probably one of a few related ones in your life. (As a related note, I made my move to "corporate America" when I was 48. Age is just a number.)

William Orr ⋅ Greenwood, IN Edward Jones Investments ⋅ 4 years experience

What does your age mean to my business? It only limits you where you perceive limitations...please don't dwell on that. Would I rather hire a financial advisor with gray hair, or the guy or gal just out of college?

Box-kickers are licensed in Forklift Operations, right? What about heavy equipment? There are numerous trade unions looking for quality people like you to enter their apprenticeship programs. These programs have a built-in career progression. check out www.helmetstohardhats.org

There are at least 5 active Apprenticeship programs near you; most of which pay <$20 per hour. The GI Bill can supplement these training programs, too!

Songcerai Hill ⋅ Little Rock, AR U.S. Army Reserve, Staff Sergeant ⋅ 14 years served

Thaddeus,

Although I agree with Neil, I also agree with John. I would suggest taking a job that you can do for now. If you have some college credits already I would transfer into a Information Security Management degree/MBA. I have been reading about people age 45 and up that are getting jobs in IT as director, etc... Plus, age does not seem to matter [yet]. But we have to have the education/skill set.

Best of Luck,

Donn LeVie Jr. ⋅ Austin, TX Donn LeVie Jr. STRATEGIES ⋅ 30 years experience

Thad:

You MAKE a career, you don't find it. A career is a progression that takes you from one level of responsibility to another, or from one job in a field to another with more responsibility and opportunity to advance. Individual jobs are part of a career strategy, that includes:
1. Review your short-term and long-term goals
2. Assessing your existing skills, knowledge, and expertise and determining which path those lead you to
3. Taking courses or pursuing degrees to fill in any holes in that path (build up skills, knowledge)
4. Keep focused on jobs that align with your career strategy
5. Regularly review Steps 1-4 to ensure you remain on track.

Understand that hiring managers want to hire solutions providers, problem solvers, and game changers, so be sure you come across as what the hiring manager needs (and not what you need :-)

Neil Serafin ⋅ Easthampton, MA Telecommunications ⋅ 40 years experience

Go down and talk to Time Warner Cable....every morning warehouse guys and gals give out thousands of modems, set top boxes and installation gear to technicians. They hire vets. Go get a four year degree in supply chain management. You can work to retirement age. Contact me direct for more info.

Matt Tilley ⋅ Waynesboro, PA Deloitte ⋅ 17 years experience

Hi Thaddeus -

While there is truth to what John said above, that doesn't mean that you are out of luck finding a fulfilling career leveraging your experience and skill set. The key is finding a company that you can connect with, understand their vision, and help them see how your background will help them achieve their goals. I would say to look at large distribution facilities. While they may use AI technologies to fulfill shipping orders or similar warehousing functions, there is still a need for leadership to manage the staff that ensures the operation is working efficiently.

Bottom line, don't give up. Get creative in your searches, and research the job opportunities (and companies) as you prepare to apply. Hope this helps, feel free to reach out if you have any other questions!

John Green ⋅ Cary, NC Information Technology ⋅ 40 years experience

The key is skills. You need skills that people want to pay money for. IT skills have been in high demand for the last 40 years.

https://www.roberthalf.com/workplace-research/salary-guides

Warehouse jobs are past tense. Means that robots and Artificial Intelligence have taken over that skill area. What business pay money for now are the people that know how to program Artificial Intelligence software,