Finding Resources for Employment after Deployment 

Our American heroes and our soldiers keep American borders safe and keep our interests afloat overseas. Both men and women put their lives in danger every day for America. But after deployment, it can be challenging to transition to the next stage of life and employment. If gunsmithing is something that interests you as a hobby or especially for a career, this article should help you make the first moves towards a fulfilling life after the military.  

The first step that should be taken when leaving deployment and starting a new life is to decide what career path you would like to take next. Once you know what you want to do, you can figure out the steps needed to pursue that.  

Training 

If you are interested in gunsmithing employment, you should first consider formal training. This can be completed in a number of ways, including an apprenticeship, gunsmithing school, or self-study. Gunsmithing schools, such as MGS Trade School, offer many different courses depending on what you want to learn. If you are more tactile and learn better “by doing,” then an apprenticeship would be perfect. There are many apprenticeship programs posted on the NRA’s website regularly.  

While formal training by experts is recommended as gunsmithing can be dangerous, some gunsmiths have learned through self-study, and with a wealth of information now available on the internet, it can be done and done well.  

Networking 

Another way to gain employment after deployment is through networking. One of the great things about being a part of the US Military is that you are connected to a vast network of people all over the country with different companies, disciplines, and skills.  

For a career in gunsmithing, there are many ways to start networking, including joining large organizations like the NRA and NSSF. They have tens of thousands of members across America and would give you access to a number of like-minded people. Also, attending events such as trade shows, conferences, and online forums will open your mind to new information, knowledge, technology, businesses, and people. These are especially effective when attending in person, as you can network too.  

Job Searching 

Once you have received your formal training and started networking, the next step in your journey toward a new career is looking for job opportunities. The first place you would start would be on job boards and career websites, where you can decide on your first placement in your new career. When looking for employment within the gunsmithing sector, there are several places where you start.  

Gun manufacturers would be an excellent place to look for employment, as you will see firsthand how guns are made and what skills it takes to ensure they are functional. From there, you may have the opportunity to specialize your skills in any special area of manufacturing. Another way to find a job is in a sporting goods store, as they frequently employ gunsmiths to administer repairs and various customizations to their customers’ guns. Here you will find great variety in the guns you work with.  

If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, working with an independent gunsmith or setting up your own gunsmithing business may be a good idea. You will refine your own skills, and you have the opportunity to decide what kind of gunsmith you want to be and where your skills will lie.  

For any veteran who needs help receiving employment, there are resources out there for you. Organizations such as Military One Source, American Corporate Partners, USO Transition Program, Hire Heroes USA, and FourBlock offer information and support for people who are embarking on a new life outside of the military.  

The most crucial step for anyone who is starting a gunsmithing career apart from training is the legal side. Before you embark on any gunsmithing work, you must receive a Federal Firearms Licence if you do not already have one. This will ensure that you can legally sell firearms or work as a gunsmith. Also, you must be aware of any local or state regulations for gunsmithing as they differ from state to state.  

Overall, as the old saying goes, “as one door closes, another door opens.” it is an exciting time for you as you embark on a new journey in employment and leave deployment behind you. If you are interested in learning more about gunsmithing, the various areas, and the skills you could require, then MGS Trade School is the perfect place for you. It has a wealth of informative courses about guns and gunsmithing. Start your journey today with MGS, and your promising gunsmithing career will start on a high note.  

Written by: Ryan Clancy, Engineering HQ