3 Powerful Resources Most Veterans Don’t Know Exist (But Should)

Hey team—
🔥 If you’re transitioning out of the military or already out but still figuring things out, I want to pass along a few high-impact resources that most vets never hear about—and that’s a shame.

These aren’t your usual “go check out the VA website” tips. These are real, actionable programs I wish someone had handed me when I was preparing to EAS.

Let’s get into it:

1️⃣ Microsoft’s MSSA Program – Launch Your Tech Career

Ever heard of Microsoft Software & Systems Academy (MSSA)? If you’re even remotely interested in breaking into tech, this one’s a hidden gem.

MSSA is a 17-week intensive training program that trains transitioning service members and veterans in high-demand fields like cloud application development, cybersecurity, and server/cloud administration.

Here’s the good part:

• You get real technical training taught by certified instructors.

• It’s free for eligible service members (SkillBridge-compatible if you’re still in).

• Upon graduation, MSSA alumni gain access to exclusive job opportunities reserved specifically for program graduates within Microsoft (I AM NOT BSing YOU ON THIS ONE, I GRADUATED FROM THIS PROGRAM. If you want really detailed info about MSSA and my experience, go check out this post. )

MSSA is designed for people with or without prior tech experience. So if you’re motivated and willing to grind, this could be your ticket to a six-figure tech job.

👉 Learn more and apply here: https://military.microsoft.com/programs/mssa/

2️⃣ Tech For Troops – Free Tech for Vets Who Need It

Let’s be honest—some of us leave the military without much in our hands. If you’re starting from scratch and need a laptop for school, job hunting, or online training, check out Tech For Troops.

This nonprofit provides free refurbished laptops, monitors, and accessories to veterans and transitioning service members who need them. They also offer basic digital skills training to help you get up to speed.

Their priority goes to:

• Homeless or at-risk veterans

• Vets trying to enter the workforce

• Students or job seekers in need of equipment

This isn’t some corporate PR stunt. I’ve personally seen veterans get real help from these folks.

👉 Request assistance here: https://techfortroops.org/

3️⃣ 24/7 Transition Counseling Hotline – Talk to Another Vet

Transitioning out is harder than most people realize. Whether it’s stress, anger, guilt, anxiety, or just that weird feeling of not belonging anymore—there’s help. And not just from a VA psychiatrist or social worker.

You can call 877-927-8387 (24/7) and talk to a fellow veteran who’s trained to help you navigate the mental and emotional side of transition.

• No judgment.

• No paperwork.

• No waiting.

This is a part of the VA’s “Don’t Wait. Reach Out.” campaign, and honestly—it’s probably one of the best-kept secrets in the system. Talking to someone who gets it can change everything.

👉 Learn more here: https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/transitioning-service/next-step.asp

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to white-knuckle your transition. There are great resources out there—but no one hands them to you. You’ve got to dig a little, and sometimes, just hear about them from another vet. That’s why I’m writing this.

If this helps even one of you take a better next step, it’s worth it.

Semper Fi—
Stay sharp. Stay connected.

Let me know if you’ve used any of these—or if you know of other lesser-known resources. I’ll feature them in a future post.