Since September 11, 2011, more than two million US troops have been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan with almost a million of them having been deployed more than once. By 2016, half of these Americans will have left the military and returned to civilian life only to face a new battle at home – finding a job.

But how do service members about to make this transition prepare themselves for the next chapter in their professional lives? Ret. Army Colonel Garland Williams, University of Phoenix Military Division regional vice president, shares tips on how to have a successful post-military career and also provides advice on the best ways to help a family member or friend who is making the transition.