Navigating Military Transition: From Service to a Technical Career in Gunsmithing & Drone Technology

Introduction

For many veterans, the military transition from active duty to civilian life is one of the most significant changes they will ever experience. The structured environment of the military, the camaraderie of fellow service members, and the clear mission-driven lifestyle suddenly shift into an open-ended civilian world full of choices, challenges, and uncertainties.

One of the biggest questions veterans ask during their transition is: What comes next?

For some, traditional four-year degrees are the answer. But for many veterans—especially those who prefer hands-on learning—technical education in fields like gunsmithing and drone technology offers a practical, rewarding path forward.

In this episode of VET S.O.S., we had the pleasure of speaking with Jarred McNeely, Chief Academic Officer at Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI), about his own military transition and how technical education is helping veterans build meaningful post-service careers.

A Sudden Shift: Jarred McNeely’s Military Transition

Jarred McNeely

Jarred McNeely knows firsthand how difficult the military transition can be. Nearly 19 years ago, he found himself leaving the military much sooner than expected.

“I was stop-lossed on deployment,” Jarred explained. “When I got home, I was out of the military in 30 days or less. My head was spinning.”

This is a common reality for many transitioning service members. Some have months or years to prepare, while others—like Jarred—face an unexpectedly abrupt exit.

Jarred was fortunate to have a strong support system, particularly his wife, who encouraged him to take some time to adjust. During this period of reflection, he decided to finish his Criminal Justice degree using the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

His story is a testament to the importance of education during military transition—not just for career advancement, but also as a way to find direction and purpose after service.

Discovering a Passion for Hands-On Learning

While finishing his degree, Jarred began exploring his career options.

“As an NCO in the military, one of the things I loved most was training my soldiers,” he shared. “I’ve always enjoyed teaching, and when the Post-9/11 GI Bill became available, I started looking for a path that allowed me to work with my hands.”

His search led him to gunsmithing school, where he quickly realized something surprising:

“I loved working with my hands, but what I really loved was working with students who were also working with their hands in the technical field.”

This realization led Jarred back into education—not as a student, but as an educator and administrator. Over time, he worked his way up, eventually becoming the Chief Academic Officer at Sonoran Desert Institute.

His journey highlights a key lesson for veterans undergoing their military transition: Sometimes, the path forward isn’t what you initially expect—but being open to new opportunities can lead to incredible career satisfaction.

Sonoran Desert Institute: A Military-Friendly Technical School

For veterans interested in technical careers, Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI) offers flexible, hands-on programs in two growing fields:

🔹 Firearms Technology (Gunsmithing Programs)

• Handgun Specialist Certificate – A short, focused program covering the mechanics and operation of handguns.
• Gunsmithing Certificate – Covers essential gunsmithing skills, including firearm ballistics, repairs, and customization.
• Associate of Science in Firearms Technology – A comprehensive program that includes general education courses, woodworking, and advanced firearm technology skills.

🔹 Unmanned Technology (Drone Programs)

• Certificate in Uncrewed Aerial Systems Technology – Teaches the fundamentals of drone operation, FAA regulations, and flight technology.
• Associate of Science in Uncrewed Systems Technology – A deeper dive into geospatial applications, camera technology, and drone maintenance.

One unique aspect of SDI is that it operates on a flexible, rolling schedule—with new student cohorts starting every five weeks. This is particularly helpful for veterans in military transition, who may need an adjustable start date to fit their evolving circumstances.

Additionally, SDI’s courses are delivered online, but still require hands-on work. Students receive training kits to practice skills at home and submit photos and videos of their work for faculty evaluation.

Jarred describes it as “a lab in your living room”—a perfect setup for veterans who enjoy practical, applied learning.

Job Outlook: Careers in Gunsmithing & Drone Technology

Many veterans worry about whether their education will actually lead to job opportunities.

Jarred explained that both gunsmithing and drone technology are booming industries with diverse career paths:

Gunsmithing Career Options

✔️ Firearm repair and customization
✔️ Manufacturing and assembly
✔️ Retail and sales
✔️ Law enforcement and military support

Drone Technology Career Options

✔️ Drone piloting and operations
✔️ Surveillance and security applications
✔️ Aerial photography and videography
✔️ Drone repair and maintenance

SDI’s Career Services department actively helps students connect with employers—but as Jarred pointed out, getting hired is about more than just skills.

“A lot of it comes down to personality, culture fit, and networking,” he said. "We can provide education, but students also have to be proactive in seeking opportunities."

Veterans & Education: A Powerful Investment

For many veterans, military transition feels overwhelming. But as Jarred emphasized, education is a powerful tool to navigate this phase successfully.

“Education is something that can’t be taken away from you,” he said. “Whether it’s at SDI or somewhere else, find something you’re passionate about and get the skills to be great at it.”

This advice applies to all transitioning veterans, whether they’re interested in gunsmithing, drones, or another technical career.

Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Military Transition

If you’re a veteran navigating your military transition, remember:
✅ Explore your interests – Whether it’s working with firearms, drones, or another technical field, find a career that excites you.
✅ Use your GI Bill benefits – Education is an investment in yourself.
✅ Consider hands-on training – Not every career requires a four-year degree—technical programs offer fast-track job opportunities.
✅ Stay open to new paths – Your post-military career might surprise you, just like it did for Jarred.

🔹 Learn More About SDI: Visit sdi.edu
🔹 Follow VET S.O.S.: YouTube: youtube.com/@vetsospodcast | Instagram: instagram.com/vetsospodcast

🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode on Spotify! Search for VET S.O.S. PodcastClick Image for Full Episode