SECO vs. MSEP: A Guide To Military Spouse Employment Resources

As a military spouse, employment can be a challenge. Thankfully, like so many other things, you are supported by the U.S. Military in your career development goals.

It’s not necessary to limit your employment options to nearby stores or even the commissary on base, wherever your spouse happens to be stationed. Even when your family may move at a moment’s notice, you can still gain valuable skills that will elevate your status in various in-demand fields.

To advance your career goals as a military spouse, take advantage of the many benefits and opportunities offered by the U.S. Department of Defense. Your spouse isn’t the only one who gets special resources for improving both personally and professionally.

Military spouses can enjoy the Military Spouse Employment Partnership, or MSEP, and the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) program. Here is a breakdown of what each program offers and how you can use both to create the career of your dreams.

SECO: Tools for Success

The SECO program offers a wide range of tools designed specifically to help military spouses in their unique situations. It’s a great place to start when you are ready to begin the networking and preparation needed to land your desired job.

The MySECO website is the place to go when you’re new to the workforce or looking to change careers and need additional education or training. You’ll be able to explore job options that dovetail with your current skill set. Then, if a career interests you but you aren’t yet qualified, this site is where you can research different training and licensing options.

Some military spouses will benefit from additional support in getting ready for the workplace, such as working with career coaches, getting guidance on crafting an impressive resume, and looking for scholarship opportunities. The SECO military spouse program even provides a free LinkedIn Premium upgrade as a benefit.

MSEP: Military Spouse Employment

The MSEP program is a sub-section of SECO. While SECO can prepare you for the interview process, MSEP is a job search tool that helps you find where to apply. There are more than 390 partner companies and organizations that advertise active and hot job openings. So far, these businesses have hired more than 125,000 military spouses — and you could be next.

Once you’re prepared to land the job you seek, you can also register in the MSEP Candidate Search. That way, businesses looking for people with your skill set will reach out to you. Through the MSEP, military spouses can rise to the top of the candidate list and get noticed quickly.

Gain Skills with MedCerts

If you want to be even more competitive, consider registering for a remote learning certification program through MedCerts. This high-quality academic training center is an MSEP partner, which makes the application process more manageable. You may even qualify for additional benefits through the MyCAA program that can pay for your portable certifications.

Even though challenges come from being a military spouse, there are also many exciting opportunities. Start by browsing the MSEP site as well as learning more about MedCerts to advance your career while you’re supporting your spouse in theirs.