Army 91S (Stryker Systems Maintainer) to Civilian: Complete Career Transition Guide (2025 Salary Data)

Bottom Line Up Front

Army 91S Stryker Systems Maintainers—you didn't just fix wheeled armored vehicles. You diagnosed and repaired one of the Army's most sophisticated combat vehicles—the Stryker family of 8x8 wheeled armored vehicles with Caterpillar C7 diesel engines, Allison automatic transmissions, independent suspension systems, Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS), advanced electrical networks, fire control computers, weapons systems, communications integration, NBC protection, and complex hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Your advanced diesel diagnostics, hydraulic and pneumatic troubleshooting, electrical systems expertise, transmission and drivetrain repair, computer-controlled systems knowledge, and ability to perform complex repairs under combat conditions translate directly into high-demand civilian careers. Realistic first-year salaries range from $52,000-$65,000 for diesel or heavy equipment mechanics, scaling to $70,000-$95,000 with ASE certifications and specialized experience. Defense contractors, senior field service technicians, and fleet maintenance supervisors can earn $85,000-$120,000+. You maintained $4+ million combat vehicles—civilian employers need that expertise.

Your 91S experience translates into six high-demand career paths: diesel and heavy equipment mechanic (construction, mining, fleet maintenance), defense contractor vehicle technician (military vehicle maintenance for defense companies), heavy-duty truck and fleet technician (commercial trucks, buses, emergency vehicles), field service technician (on-site equipment and machinery repair), industrial maintenance technician (manufacturing plants requiring hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical skills), and armored vehicle technician (law enforcement, security, specialty vehicles). All fields value your advanced technical training on complex integrated systems.

The timeline is achievable: Immediate hire possible with Stryker experience at $52K-$65K; 6-12 months to earn ASE diesel certifications and reach $65K-$80K; 2-3 years to become senior technician or field service specialist earning $75K-$95K; 5-7 years to reach specialized roles like defense contractor senior technician ($90K-$120K+), fleet maintenance supervisor ($85K-$110K), or service manager ($95K-$125K). BAE Systems, General Dynamics, heavy equipment dealers, diesel fleet companies, and equipment rental firms are actively hiring veterans with your background NOW.

What Does an Army 91S Do?

As a Stryker Systems Maintainer, you performed field and sustainment maintenance on the Stryker family of combat vehicles—eight variants of 8x8 wheeled armored vehicles representing some of the most advanced military technology. You maintained:

Stryker vehicle variants: M1126 Infantry Carrier Vehicle (ICV), M1127 Reconnaissance Vehicle (RV), M1128 Mobile Gun System (MGS), M1129 Mortar Carrier (MC), M1130 Command Vehicle (CV), M1131 Fire Support Vehicle (FSV), M1132 Engineer Squad Vehicle (ESV), M1133 Medical Evacuation Vehicle (MEV), M1134 Anti-Tank Guided Missile Vehicle (ATGM), M1135 NBC Reconnaissance Vehicle (NBCRV).

Powerpack systems: Caterpillar C7 350 HP turbocharged diesel engine, Allison MD3066P automatic transmission, transfer case, differential assemblies, independent suspension systems on all eight wheels, Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS), and advanced cooling systems.

Electrical and electronic systems: 28VDC electrical system with multiple computers and controllers, fire control computers, communications systems (SINCGARS, BFT), thermal sights, laser rangefinders, sensors, and complex wiring harnesses integrating all vehicle systems.

Weapons systems: Remote Weapon Station (RWS) with .50 cal M2, 40mm grenade launcher, or 7.62mm machine gun; 105mm Mobile Gun System (MGS variant); hydraulic and electrical weapon controls; ammunition handling systems.

Auxiliary systems: Hydraulic ramp operation, NBC overpressure system, heating and air conditioning, auxiliary power unit (APU), fire suppression system, and crew stations.

You diagnosed failures using diagnostic software (SAMS-E, HMMH), multimeters, hydraulic test equipment, pneumatic gauges, and technical manuals. You performed everything from tire and suspension service to engine/transmission removal, troubleshooting intermittent electrical faults, and weapons system diagnostics. When Strykers went deadlined, you restored them to combat-ready status under time pressure.

Skills You've Developed

Technical Skills (Directly Transferable)

Diesel engine diagnosis and repair: You maintained Caterpillar C7 turbocharged diesel engines—a common engine family used in commercial trucks, buses, and equipment. Fuel system troubleshooting, turbocharger service, cooling system repair, and electronic engine diagnostics translate directly to commercial diesel technician roles earning $60K-$85K+.

Automatic transmission and drivetrain repair: You serviced Allison automatic transmissions (also used in commercial trucks and buses), transfer cases, differentials, axles, and independent suspension systems—skills valuable for heavy equipment, commercial truck, and fleet maintenance careers.

Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS) and suspension: You diagnosed and repaired CTIS (pneumatic system controlling tire pressure), independent suspension systems, shock absorbers, and wheel bearings—specialized skills applicable to military vehicle contracting, specialty vehicle maintenance, and advanced suspension work.

Hydraulic and pneumatic systems: You troubleshot hydraulic ramp operations, auxiliary hydraulics, air brake systems, and pneumatic controls—core skills for heavy equipment, truck, and industrial maintenance requiring hydraulic and pneumatic expertise.

Electrical and electronic diagnostics: You traced circuits, tested sensors and controllers, diagnosed CAN bus systems, repaired complex wiring harnesses, and used diagnostic software—critical for modern equipment with electronic controls, telematics, and computerized systems.

Computer-controlled systems: You troubleshot integrated fire control computers, vehicle electronics, communications systems, and electronic controllers—exactly the advanced diagnostics needed for modern diesel equipment with DEF systems, emissions controls, and computer integration.

Preventive maintenance programs: You followed complex TMs, performed scheduled services, documented maintenance actions using SAMS-E, and tracked equipment readiness—foundation of fleet management and reliability-centered maintenance in all industries.

Technical manual and diagnostic software: You read wiring diagrams, hydraulic schematics, used SAMS-E diagnostic tools, and interpreted complex technical publications—translates to using manufacturer diagnostic software and service information.

Soft Skills (Equally Valuable)

Complex integrated systems troubleshooting: When Strykers had multiple interrelated failures (electrical fault affecting fire control affecting weapons system), you systematically diagnosed root causes—advanced problem-solving that senior technicians and diagnostics specialists need.

High-value equipment accountability: You maintained $4+ million combat vehicles and ensured mission readiness—civilian employers need technicians with that responsibility and ownership.

Adaptability and field repair capability: You performed repairs in field environments with limited parts, improvised solutions, and kept vehicles operational in austere conditions—exactly what field service technicians do daily.

Training and mentorship: You trained junior soldiers on complex systems, diagnostic procedures, and safety protocols—preparation for senior technician and supervisor roles requiring leadership.

Precision and safety consciousness: You worked on weapons systems, high-pressure hydraulics, electrical systems, and life-support equipment following strict safety and technical standards—critical for industries requiring regulatory compliance.

Top Civilian Career Paths for 91S Veterans

Diesel Mechanic and Heavy Equipment Technician (Most Direct Path)

Civilian job titles:

• Diesel Mechanic
• Heavy-Duty Diesel Technician
• Fleet Diesel Mechanic
• Heavy Equipment Technician
• Commercial Vehicle Technician

Salary ranges (2024-2025 data):

• Entry-level (0-2 years): $50,000-$62,000
• Experienced (3-5 years, ASE certs): $62,000-$78,000
• Senior Technician/Specialist: $72,000-$92,000
• Shop Foreman/Lead Technician: $78,000-$98,000
• Service Manager: $88,000-$115,000+

What translates directly: Your Caterpillar C7 diesel engine experience, Allison transmission work, electrical diagnostics, and hydraulic systems knowledge are exactly what heavy equipment dealers and diesel fleet employers need. Commercial trucks and buses use Caterpillar, Cummins, and Detroit diesels with Allison transmissions—identical to Stryker powertrains.

Certifications needed:

• ASE Heavy-Duty Truck (T series): T2 (Diesel), T3 (Drivetrain), T4 (Brakes), T5 (Suspension), T6 (Electrical). $112 per test. Master Diesel Tech status increases pay $10K-$15K.
• Manufacturer certifications: Caterpillar, Allison, Cummins training (often employer-provided).
• OSHA 10/30: $50-$200.
• EPA 609 Mobile A/C: $20-$50. Required for HVAC work.

Companies hiring:

• Heavy equipment dealers: Caterpillar, John Deere, Komatsu dealers nationwide
• Truck dealerships: Freightliner, Peterbilt, Kenworth, Volvo, Mack
• Fleet operators: UPS, FedEx, XPO Logistics, Schneider, J.B. Hunt
• Truck rental/leasing: Penske, Ryder, Enterprise Truck
• Equipment rental: United Rentals, Sunbelt Rentals, Herc Rentals
• Transit agencies: Metropolitan bus systems (all major cities)
• School districts: Bus maintenance departments
• Waste management: Republic Services, Waste Management Inc.

Best for: 91Ss who want immediate employment using diesel and electrical diagnostic skills, prefer hands-on technical work, and want stable careers with advancement.

Defense Contractor Vehicle Technician (Highest Pay, Specialized)

Civilian job titles:

• Military Vehicle Technician
• Stryker Systems Technician
• Combat Vehicle Mechanic
• Tactical Vehicle Specialist
• Field Service Representative (military vehicles)

Salary ranges (2024-2025 data):

• Entry-level Defense Vehicle Tech: $62,000-$78,000
• Experienced Contractor Technician (3-5 years): $78,000-$98,000
• Senior Field Service Rep: $92,000-$118,000
• Technical Specialist/Lead: $105,000-$135,000+

OCONUS contractor positions:

• LOGCAP/AFCAP vehicle maintenance: $85,000-$115,000+ (tax advantages)
• Combat vehicle maintenance (deployed): $105,000-$145,000+ (high-threat premium)

What translates directly: Everything. Defense contractors maintain Stryker vehicles, supporting active-duty units at installations, training centers, and deployed locations. Your Stryker experience IS the job qualification.

Certifications valuable:

• Active Secret or Top Secret clearance (maintain if you have it—worth $10K-$25K in salary premium)
• ASE certifications (demonstrates technical competency)
• Manufacturer training: General Dynamics, BAE Systems training (often employer-provided)
• Valid passport: Required for OCONUS positions

Companies actively hiring:

• General Dynamics Land Systems (Stryker manufacturer, systems support)
• BAE Systems (Stryker variant support, armor systems)
• Textron Systems (weapons systems, electronics)
• Oshkosh Defense (family of light armored vehicles)
• LOGCAP/AFCAP contractors: KBR, Fluor, Vectrus, Amentum (OCONUS base operations)
• Depot maintenance: Anniston Army Depot, Red River, Letterkenny
• Training support contractors: Fort Lewis, Fort Benning, Fort Hood, NTC, JRTC

Reality check: Defense contractor work offers excellent pay and directly uses your Stryker skills. CONUS positions (U.S. bases) offer stable employment, regular hours, strong benefits. OCONUS positions (deployed locations) pay significantly more but require rotations away from home (3-6-12 months). Security clearance often required.

Best for: 91Ss wanting to continue Stryker work, maximize earnings using specialized experience, and comfortable with defense contractor employment (potential OCONUS rotations).

Heavy-Duty Truck and Fleet Technician

Civilian job titles:

• Heavy-Duty Truck Technician
• Fleet Maintenance Technician
• Commercial Vehicle Technician
• Class 8 Truck Mechanic
• Transportation Equipment Technician

Salary ranges (2024-2025 data):

• Entry-level Truck Technician: $50,000-$60,000
• Experienced (3-5 years, ASE Master): $62,000-$80,000
• Senior Diagnostics Specialist: $72,000-$92,000
• Fleet Maintenance Supervisor: $78,000-$98,000
• Fleet Maintenance Manager: $88,000-$118,000+

What translates directly: Your Caterpillar C7 diesel, Allison transmission, electrical diagnostics, and air brake experience apply perfectly to commercial trucks. Freightliner, Peterbilt, Kenworth, Volvo, and Mack trucks use similar engines, transmissions, electronic controls, and air brake systems.

Certifications needed:

• ASE Truck Certifications (T series): T1-T8. Master Truck Technician status increases pay $10K-$18K.
• EPA 609: Mobile A/C.
• CDL (optional but valuable): Test-driving trucks after repair.
• Manufacturer certifications: Freightliner, Volvo, Mack training.

Companies hiring:

• Trucking/logistics: UPS, FedEx, XPO, Old Dominion, Estes, ABF, Saia
• Truck rental/leasing: Penske, Ryder, Enterprise Truck
• Truck dealerships: Freightliner, Peterbilt, Kenworth, Volvo, Mack dealers nationwide
• Food/beverage distribution: Sysco, McLane, US Foods
• Retail distribution: Walmart, Target, Amazon (DC fleet maintenance)
• Waste management: Republic Services, Waste Management
• Utilities: Power companies, water/gas utilities (bucket trucks, service fleets)

Reality check: Truck technician work is steady, less weather-dependent than construction. Large fleet operators offer strong benefits, regular schedules, clear advancement. Pay with ASE Master at major carriers or dealerships is $72K-$92K+. Union shops (Teamsters, UAW) often pay higher.

Best for: 91Ss wanting stable employment, steady schedules, strong benefits, and prefer working on trucks over construction equipment or military vehicles.

Field Service Technician (Equipment, Machinery, Vehicles)

Civilian job titles:

• Field Service Technician
• Mobile Equipment Technician
• Customer Support Technician
• Equipment Field Engineer
• Traveling Service Technician

Salary ranges (2024-2025 data):

• Entry-level Field Service Tech: $58,000-$70,000 + per diem
• Experienced (3-5 years): $72,000-$92,000 + expenses
• Senior Field Service Specialist: $88,000-$112,000 + per diem/truck
• Field Service Manager: $98,000-$128,000+

What translates directly: Field service techs travel to customer sites diagnosing and repairing equipment—similar to supporting Stryker units in the field. You'll troubleshoot independently, perform complex on-site repairs, and work directly with customers—exactly like supporting Stryker crews and commanders.

Certifications valuable:

• ASE certifications: Demonstrates technical competency
• Manufacturer training: Employer-provided for equipment lines
• CDL (Class A or B): Often required for service trucks
• OSHA 30: Safety training for customer sites

Industries and companies:

• Heavy equipment dealers: Caterpillar, John Deere, Komatsu field service teams
• Power generation: Caterpillar Electric Power, Cummins Power, Kohler, Generac
• Mining equipment: Joy Global, Sandvik, Atlas Copco, Epiroc
• Crane and lifting: Manitowoc, Terex, Grove, Liebherr
• Industrial equipment: Ingersoll Rand, Sullair, Gardner Denver (compressors)
• Material handling: Toyota Forklifts, Crown, Hyster-Yale

Reality check: Field service requires 50-75% travel (often overnight), emergency calls, all-weather work. But compensation is excellent—base salary plus per diem ($50-$100/day), company trucks (often take-home), tool allowances, bonuses. Field techs often earn $88K-$112K+ within 3-5 years.

Best for: 91Ss who don't mind travel, enjoy independent troubleshooting, want higher earnings, and prefer working directly with customers rather than in shops.

Industrial Maintenance Technician (Multi-Craft)

Civilian job titles:

• Industrial Maintenance Mechanic
• Multi-Craft Maintenance Technician
• Plant Maintenance Technician
• Manufacturing Equipment Technician
• Maintenance Reliability Technician

Salary ranges (2024-2025 data):

• Entry-level Industrial Maintenance: $52,000-$62,000
• Experienced Multi-Craft (3-5 years): $62,000-$78,000
• Senior Maintenance Technician: $72,000-$92,000
• Maintenance Supervisor: $82,000-$105,000
• Maintenance Manager: $92,000-$125,000+

What translates directly: Manufacturing plants operate hydraulic systems, pneumatic controls, conveyors, motors, pumps, electrical controls, computerized equipment—all systems you troubleshot on Strykers. Your hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and mechanical troubleshooting skills are exactly what plants need.

Certifications valuable:

• Certified Maintenance & Reliability Technician (CMRT): SMRP credential, $395 exam.
• Industrial Maintenance Technician Certification: MSSC or NIMS, $300-$600.
• OSHA 10/30: Required for manufacturing.
• Electrical certifications: Journeyman electrician licenses strengthen value.

Industries and companies:

• Automotive: GM, Ford, Stellantis, Toyota, Honda assembly plants
• Food/beverage: Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Anheuser-Busch, General Mills, Tyson
• Chemical/pharma: Pfizer, Merck, Dow, DuPont, BASF, Johnson & Johnson
• Packaging/distribution: Amazon, UPS, FedEx fulfillment/distribution centers
• Paper/pulp: International Paper, Georgia-Pacific, Weyerhaeuser
• Steel/metals: US Steel, Nucor, ArcelorMittal
• Aerospace: Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman

Reality check: Industrial maintenance requires shift work (days, nights, weekends, rotating) and can be physically demanding. But pay is solid, overtime common (time-and-a-half, double-time), and union manufacturing positions pay $72K-$98K+ with excellent benefits. Advancement to supervisor/manager realistic.

Best for: 91Ss wanting to leverage hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical skills, don't mind shift work, prefer indoor work (mostly), and want overtime income opportunities.

Armored Vehicle and Specialty Vehicle Technician

Civilian job titles:

• Armored Vehicle Technician
• Security Vehicle Mechanic
• Tactical Vehicle Specialist
• Specialty Vehicle Technician
• Law Enforcement Vehicle Technician

Salary ranges (2024-2025 data):

• Armored Vehicle Technician: $58,000-$78,000
• Senior Armored Vehicle Specialist: $72,000-$98,000
• Specialty Vehicle Service Manager: $85,000-$110,000+

What translates directly: Armored car companies (Brinks, Loomis, GardaWorld), law enforcement agencies (SWAT vehicles, BearCats, MRAPs), and security companies operate armored and tactical vehicles requiring specialized maintenance. Your Stryker experience with armored systems, hydraulics, communications, and electrical systems is directly applicable.

Companies and agencies:

• Armored car services: Brinks, Loomis, GardaWorld (armored truck fleets)
• Law enforcement: Police departments, sheriff's offices, federal agencies (SWAT/tactical vehicle maintenance)
• Specialty vehicle manufacturers: Lenco (BearCat), Navistar (armored vehicles), Alpine Armoring, Texas Armoring Corporation
• Security contractors: Constellis, GardaWorld, Triple Canopy (security vehicle fleets)
• Government agencies: USAJOBS.gov federal positions supporting tactical vehicle fleets
• Emergency management: FEMA, state emergency services (specialty vehicle fleets)

Reality check: Niche market with fewer positions than general diesel/heavy equipment roles. But pay is competitive, work is specialized, and employers value military armored vehicle experience. Opportunities primarily in major metro areas and near federal/law enforcement facilities.

Best for: 91Ss wanting specialized work using armored vehicle experience and interested in law enforcement or security industries.

Required Certifications & Training

High Priority (Get These First)

ASE Heavy-Duty Truck Certifications (T series) – T2 (Diesel Engines), T3 (Drivetrain), T4 (Brakes), T5 (Suspension/Steering), T6 (Electrical Systems), T7 (HVAC), T8 (Preventive Maintenance). Cost: $112 per advanced test. Time: Study 2-3 months per test. Value: Earning 4-8 ASE certs qualifies as Master Diesel/Truck Technician—increases salary $10K-$18K. ROI: Opens $65K-$98K+ positions.

OSHA 10 or OSHA 30-Hour Safety – Construction/industrial safety training. Cost: $50-$200. Time: 10 or 30 hours. Value: Required by many employers. ROI: Improves hiring competitiveness.

Maintain Security Clearance (if you have it) – Keep active by working cleared position within 2 years or it lapses. Cost: Free if maintained. Value: Worth $10K-$25K annually for defense contractor roles. ROI: Opens $75K-$135K defense contractor positions.

Medium Priority (Career Advancement)

Manufacturer Certifications – Caterpillar, Allison Transmission, Cummins, Detroit Diesel, truck manufacturer training. Cost: Often employer-paid ($1,000-$5,000 if self-funded). Time: 1-2 weeks per program. Value: Required for dealership advancement; increases technical expertise. ROI: Master technicians at dealers earn $82K-$108K+.

CDL (Class A or B) – Allows driving service trucks, equipment trailers, commercial trucks. Cost: $3,000-$5,000 for training/testing. Time: 3-8 weeks. Value: Required for field service; adds $5K-$10K+ earning potential. ROI: Opens field service careers paying $78K-$112K+.

Hydraulic/Pneumatic Certifications – Advanced troubleshooting from Parker Hannifin, Bosch Rexroth, AED. Cost: $500-$2,000. Time: 3-5 days. Value: Hydraulic/pneumatic specialists command premium pay. ROI: Adds $5K-$12K annually.

EPA 609 Mobile A/C – Required for truck/equipment HVAC. Cost: $20-$50. Time: 1-2 hours online. Value: Legally required. ROI: Mandatory for diesel tech positions.

Lower Priority (Situation-Dependent)

Associate Degree (Diesel or Heavy Equipment Technology) – 2-year degree. Cost: $0 with GI Bill. Time: 2 years. Value: Strengthens long-term prospects, opens management faster. ROI: Degree-holders earn $5K-$10K more, advance faster to supervision.

Certified Maintenance & Reliability Technician (CMRT) – SMRP industrial maintenance credential. Cost: $395 exam. Value: For industrial maintenance path. ROI: Opens $72K-$98K industrial positions.

Welding Certifications (AWS) – Stick, MIG, TIG. Cost: $500-$1,500 per process. Value: Field service values welding. ROI: Adds $5K-$10K for field positions.

Companies Actively Hiring 91S Veterans (90+ Employers)

Defense Contractors (Stryker/Military Vehicles)

1. General Dynamics Land Systems (Stryker manufacturer)
2. BAE Systems (armor, systems support)
3. Textron Systems (weapons, electronics)
4. Oshkosh Defense (tactical vehicles)
5. AM General (JLTV, tactical vehicles)
6. KBR (LOGCAP support)
7. Fluor (LOGCAP)
8. Vectrus (base operations)
9. Amentum (military support)
10. AECOM (federal facilities)

Truck Dealerships (All Major Brands)

11-20. Freightliner dealers nationwide 21-30. Peterbilt dealers 31-40. Kenworth dealers 41-45. Volvo Truck dealers 46-50. Mack Truck dealers

Transportation/Logistics (Fleet Maintenance)

51. UPS (fleet maintenance nationwide)
52. FedEx (fleet services)
53. XPO Logistics
54. Old Dominion Freight Line
55. J.B. Hunt Transport
56. Schneider National
57. Estes Express Lines
58. ABF Freight
59. Penske Truck Leasing
60. Ryder System Inc.
61. Enterprise Truck Rental

Heavy Equipment Dealers and Rental

62-71. Caterpillar dealers nationwide 72-76. John Deere Construction dealers 77. United Rentals (1,500+ locations) 78. Sunbelt Rentals (1,300+ locations) 79. Herc Rentals (400+ locations)

Transit and School Districts

80-82. Metropolitan transit authorities (all major cities—bus maintenance) 83-85. School district bus maintenance departments (nationwide)

Waste Management

86. Republic Services
87. Waste Management Inc.
88. Waste Connections

Federal/Municipal

89. USAJOBS.gov (WG-5823 Motor Vehicle Mechanic, WG-5803 Heavy Equipment Mechanic)
90. State DOTs (all 50 states)

Check company career pages, veteran job boards, and USAJOBS.gov. Many companies have veteran hiring programs.

Resume Translation for 91S Veterans

Military Skill → Civilian Translation:

"Maintained Stryker vehicles" → "Diagnosed and repaired Stryker 8x8 wheeled armored vehicles including Caterpillar C7 diesel engines, Allison automatic transmissions, independent suspension systems, Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS), advanced electrical/electronic controls, and weapons systems; ensured 95%+ operational readiness"

"Troubleshot diesel engines" → "Diagnosed Caterpillar C7 turbocharged diesel engine failures including fuel systems, turbochargers, cooling systems, and electronic engine controls using diagnostic software and test equipment"

"Repaired automatic transmissions" → "Removed and installed Allison automatic transmissions, diagnosed drivetrain failures, repaired transfer cases and differentials, performed component-level repairs following technical specifications"

"Diagnosed electrical faults" → "Traced electrical circuits, tested sensors and controllers, diagnosed CAN bus communication failures, repaired wiring harnesses using multimeters and diagnostic software"

"Serviced CTIS and suspension" → "Troubleshot Central Tire Inflation System (pneumatic controls), diagnosed independent suspension failures, replaced shock absorbers and suspension components, restored systems to specifications"

"Maintained hydraulic systems" → "Diagnosed hydraulic ramp operations, auxiliary hydraulics, and hydraulic controls; repaired pumps, valves, cylinders, hoses; tested systems using pressure gauges"

"Used diagnostic software" → "Utilized SAMS-E, HMMH, and computerized diagnostic tools to troubleshoot integrated electronic systems, identify fault codes, isolate malfunctions, and verify repairs"

"Performed weapons systems maintenance" → "Serviced Remote Weapon Station (RWS), turret electronics, fire control systems; performed functional testing and ensured weapons system integration"

"Led maintenance crew" → "Supervised 5-person maintenance team performing field and shop repairs; trained junior technicians on diagnostic procedures, safety protocols, and technical manual interpretation"

"Managed equipment readiness" → "Tracked preventive maintenance schedules using SAMS-E, documented repairs, maintained $4M+ in combat vehicles achieving 93%+ mission-capable rates"

Transition Timeline, Success Stories, and Action Plan

Months 1-3: Get DD-214, document clearance, create resume, set up LinkedIn, register for ASE tests, complete OSHA training, apply to 25-30 positions.

Months 4-6: Pass 1-2 ASE tests, interview with dealers/fleets/contractors, accept offer ($52K-$65K), start civilian career.

Months 7-12: Prove yourself, complete additional ASE certs, pursue manufacturer training, target $65K-$80K by year 2-3.

Success Story - Marcus, 29, former 91S (E-5) → General Dynamics Stryker Tech → $92K: Served 6 years. Applied to General Dynamics. Hired at $72K supporting training base. After 3 years, senior tech at $92K. Maintained clearance from military.

Success Story - Jason, 28, former 91S (E-4) → Penske Fleet Tech → $74K: Served 5 years. Hired by Penske at $54K. Earned ASE Master Diesel. Now $74K with benefits, steady schedule, home nightly.

Next Steps This Week:

1. Get DD-214 copies
2. Create LinkedIn
3. Build resume
4. Identify 10 employers
5. Register ASE tests

You maintained $4M+ Stryker combat vehicles under combat pressure. You troubleshot complex integrated systems. You kept combat units mobile.

Civilian employers need your skills. Execute the plan.

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Ready to start? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit.