You can find comprehensive information on certifications and licenses relevant to Army service members through COOL (Credentialing Opportunities On-Line). This online resource is specifically designed to help military personnel explore and obtain credentials that align with their military occupation and future civilian career goals.
Understanding Army COOL
COOL stands for Credentialing Opportunities On-Line. It serves as a central hub providing detailed information on professional certifications and licenses available to Army service members. The primary objective of COOL is to help soldiers translate their valuable military training and experience into civilian-recognized credentials, enhancing their professional development both during and after their service.
How Army COOL Benefits Service Members
Army COOL offers significant advantages for soldiers looking to advance their careers or transition to civilian employment:
- Career Alignment: It helps service members identify certifications and licenses directly related to their military occupational specialty (MOS), ensuring their skills are formally recognized.
- Civilian Equivalency: COOL provides a pathway to understand how military training and experience can meet the requirements for various civilian credentials, bridging the gap between military and civilian professional standards.
- Enhanced Employability: By obtaining certifications through the guidance offered by COOL, service members can increase their marketability and competitive edge in the civilian job market.
- Funding Information: While the reference doesn't explicitly state funding, COOL often provides information on how the Army may support the pursuit of these credentials (e.g., through tuition assistance or credentialing assistance programs).
Who Else Can Utilize Army COOL?
Beyond individual service members, Army COOL is a valuable resource for a broader audience involved in military and civilian career transitions:
| User Group | How COOL Assists Them |
|---|---|
| Recruiters | Can showcase career opportunities and professional development pathways within the Army. |
| Counselors | Aid service members in career planning and credentialing decisions. |
| Credentialing Organizations | Can list their relevant certifications and connect with military personnel. |
| Employers | Understand the professional qualifications of transitioning service members and veterans. |
Accessing Army COOL
To explore the vast array of certifications and licenses available, or to find information pertinent to your military occupation and civilian career, you can directly visit the official Army COOL website.
- Visit the Army COOL Home Page: https://www.cool.osd.mil/army/index.html
This platform provides detailed information on various credentials, including eligibility requirements, exam details, and links to relevant credentialing bodies.
Navigating Certification Options
Once on the Army COOL site, you can typically search for certifications by:
- Military Occupational Specialty (MOS): Find credentials directly related to your specific job in the Army.
- Civilian Occupation: Explore certifications relevant to a desired civilian career field.
- Credentialing Agency: Look up specific certifications offered by professional organizations.
The website is designed to be user-friendly, guiding you through the process of identifying, understanding, and pursuing valuable professional credentials.
