How To Transition From Soldier to Civilian

Veterans Imagination Project

Futures Thinking and Storytelling for Military Transition

Each year, two hundred thousand service members separate from the military and begin their reintegration to the civilian world. But leaving military service isn’t just a job change or relocation; it’s a fundamental personal transformation made even more challenging by rapid shifts in science, technology, society, and the needs of the 21st century workforce.

The Veterans Imagination Project (VIP) builds on traditional and proven transition services like career counseling and art therapy and infuses them with future-oriented insights to create a holistic intervention for career readiness.

Veterans across Arizona are invited to participate in this program at no cost. Learn more and apply below.

For more information, contact Bob Beard.

Text: "What will you be in the future?" over a woman looking off with icons of technology swirling around her head.

Veterans Imagination Project Community Workshops

Learn new skills to navigate your transition and define your post-service success.

Hear From Past Participants

How VIP Can Change Your Trajectory

How To Transition From Soldier to Civilian

Bob Beard on how to make long-term plans amid the culture shock of civilian life. Slate.com

Veteran Imagination Project helps soldier dream big for next career

“You know, we’re trying to populate the desert, well you can’t do it without food,” said Curtis Merritt. Merritt is sharing his vision for the future of agriculture, one that

Program helps veterans reckon with reintegration

Veterans Imagination Project helps vets craft future narratives, find success ASU News

Bob and Erik sitting on a TV set

Helping veterans transition to civilian careers

Program Director Bob Beard and former participant Erik Villegas appear on Arizona PBS to explain more about the methods used and why thinking about the future can be a helpful tool in military to civilian transition.

Imagination project helps student veterans see their future more clearly

Scott Bordow, ASU News

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ASU’s Veterans Imagination Project Aims To Help Veterans Envision New Career Paths

By Steve Goldstein