When I transitioned out of active-duty military service, I wasn’t entirely sure what came next. I knew I still wanted to serve in some capacity, stay close to mission-driven work, and continue using my technical skills. That’s when I found federal contracting—and it’s been one of the most rewarding (and eye-opening) career shifts I’ve made.

If you’re considering stepping into the world of federal contracting, especially within the Department of Defense or similar agencies, here are a few things I wish someone had told me beforehand.

 

1. You’re Not a Government Employee—You’re a Civilian Supporting the Mission

This may seem obvious, but it’s worth stating: contractors are not federal employees. You’re often working on behalf of the government, but your paycheck comes from a private company holding a government contract. This means you’ll need to learn how to navigate two systems: your contracting company’s expectations and the government client’s mission needs.

You’ll wear both hats—and how well you juggle that determines your value.

 

2. The Work Is Real, Critical, and Not Always Glorious

Federal contracting isn’t a fallback job—it’s often the backbone of military readiness and government capability. Whether you’re managing logistics, assembling weapon systems, or tracking high-value inventory like I do, your work often supports people on the front lines.

There’s no hand-holding. The bar for quality, safety, and compliance is high—because lives and missions depend on it. You’ll be trusted with sensitive systems, critical timelines, and millions of dollars’ worth of assets. That trust is earned, not given.

 

3. Your Contract Could End—Be Ready for It

Unlike military orders or GS positions, contractor roles depend on the length and scope of the contract. When a program ends or funding shifts, your position may go with it. That’s just part of the game.

What helps?

• Keep your certifications up to date.
• Cross-train in other areas.
• Build relationships across programs.
• Stay flexible—your next opportunity could be in the same facility, or across the country.

 

4. You’ll Work Alongside Military, Civilians, and Other Contractors—All With Different Cultures

One of the best and most complex parts of this job is the blend of people you work with. You’ll sit at tables with:

• Active-duty personnel focused on the mission.
• GS civilians with years (or decades) of institutional knowledge.
• Fellow contractors from different companies and specialties.

Understanding how to speak each group’s “language” and respect their perspectives is key. I’ve learned just as much from 30-year government civilians as I have from junior sailors fresh out of A-school.

 

5. Pride Still Matters

You may not wear the uniform anymore—but if you’ve served, you’ll recognize that the purpose never really leaves. As a federal contractor, you still contribute to something bigger than yourself.

When I build or inspect something, I think about where it’s going: maybe to a Navy diver, maybe to a fleet deploying to the Indo-Pacific. That awareness makes the job feel more like a continuation of service than a departure from it.

 

Final Thoughts

Federal contracting can be a deeply rewarding career path—if you go into it with eyes open. It’s not a government job, it’s not private sector, and it’s not military service. It’s a unique space where all three worlds meet—and if you’re adaptable, disciplined, and mission-minded, you’ll thrive in it.

If you’re transitioning from active duty, or simply curious about how to get your foot in the door, I’d be happy to share more of what I’ve learned along the way. Drop a comment or reach out. After all, contractors talk to each other—and that’s how we get better.