Why Are Veterans Choosing Tattooing as Their New Career?
Transitioning out of the military can be difficult. It feels like stepping into a new world where yelling is optional, and camouflage is a choice. Many veterans are choosing tattooing as their next career move, and honestly, it makes perfect sense. The discipline of the military instills a strong work ethic. It also adds a commitment to excellence, and the ability to perform under pressure. these are all critical skills for becoming a successful tattoo artist!
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, there are over 16 million veterans in the U.S., and a lot of them transition to civilian life each year. Many struggle to find careers that match their skills, but the tattoo industry offers an opportunity for creativity, financial stability, and a close-knit work environment. A 2022 survey found that many veterans experience employment difficulties post-service, making hands-on careers like tattooing a great fit for those looking to leverage their discipline and skillset in a non-traditional way.
Tattooing allows for creative expression, a great way for veterans to process their experiences and tell their own stories in ink. Plus, many veterans already have tattoos, which means they understand their significance and artistry from a personal perspective. But why is this the profession of choice for many who have served? Let’s break it down.
Apply for the apprenticeship program at our Tattoo School! Find a tattoo apprenticeship near me
Does Tattooing Offer the Same Camaraderie as the Military?
One thing veterans miss when they leave the service? The bond. The military fosters a level of brotherhood and shared experience that’s tough to replicate. But walk into a tattoo studio, and you’ll find a similar dynamic! Tight-knit teams, shared war stories (albeit about ink and clients instead of combat zones), and a commitment to mastering a craft! Many tattoo studios have a strong culture of mentorship. Here, experienced tattoo artists guide newer ones through the ropes, much like how more soldiers train fresh recruits.
Tattooing isn’t a solo endeavor. It’s an industry built on mentorship, respect, and skill-building. Just like in the military, tattoo apprentices work up through training. They learn from experienced professionals before earning their stripes (literally and figuratively). This progression mirrors the chain of command and career growth in the armed forces. Therefore, tattooing is a familiar and comfortable transition for many veterans! A lot of veteran tattoo artists say they enjoy the studio environment because it provides a sense of belonging and teamwork they once had.
Many veterans are choosing tattooing for the deep sense of purpose it gives them. Helping clients memorialize significant events, lost loved ones, or personal milestones through ink. Tattooing as a career for veterans has been steadily growing, with veteran-owned tattoo shops becoming more common nationwide. There are now over 500 veteran-owned tattoo studios in the U.S., highlighting the demand for artists who understand military culture and its significance in tattooing.
Looking for a guaranteed job offer as a Tattoo Artist? Start your tattoo apprenticeship today!
Are Veterans Already Built for a Tattoo Career?
If you think about it, military training prepares veterans for tattooing in ways they might not expect. Discipline? Check. Attention to detail? Check. Handling high-pressure situations? Double check. A steady hand from years of firearm training? That’s a tattoo artist’s superpower.
According to the Pew Research Center, 30% of Americans have at least one tattoo. That number is even higher among military personnel, with nearly 70% of service members reporting having at least one piece of ink. Most veterans already have the ability to focus for extended periods. This is essential when executing tattoo designs, as most require precision and patience. Studies show that over 70% of military personnel who get tattoos do it to commemorate their service. Therefore, veterans have a natural understanding of the deep meaning behind tattoos.
Additionally, military personnel are accustomed to following protocols, making them more receptive to the hygiene and safety standards crucial in the tattoo industry.
Did you know our tattoo school, Ink Different, has locations in several exciting cities across the United States? We do! We have locations in Brooklyn, Los Angeles, Orange County, Chicago, Tampa, Miami, Philadelphia, St. Louis, Atlanta and Connecticut.
Is Tattooing a Good Financial Move?
Many veterans qualify for educational benefits under the GI Bill, which can sometimes be applied to vocational training—including tattoo apprenticeships. That means they can train without massive debt, making it a practical and financially sound career move. Unlike traditional college degrees, which can take years to complete, tattoo apprenticeships offer a faster path to earning potential, allowing veterans to start making money while they learn.
The tattoo industry generates over $1.5 billion annually and is projected to continue growing. Tattoo artists can make solid money, and their earning power increases with experience. Some even open their own tattoo studios. This decision gives them the freedom and stability they might not find in traditional employment. In fact, as tattooing is mostly cash-based, tattoo artists often have the flexibility to manage their income effectively and take control of their financial future.
Also, tattooing’s nature allows veterans to build a personal brand, set their hours, and craft a career that suits their lifestyle! Veterans looking for financial independence may find that tattooing provides an ideal balance of stability and flexibility. Depending on their clientele and location, a highly skilled tattoo artist can earn anywhere from $50,000 to over $150,000 annually. Some top-tier tattoo artists make even more, mainly if they specialize in high-end custom work or own tattoo studios.
Looking for information for parents of young Tattoo Artists? Continue reading about parents who want to help their children become Tattoo Artists.
Where Can Veterans Train with Us?
If you speak Spanish, we’ve got you covered! Our Spanish-speaking mentors are ready to guide you at our New York City, Chicago, Tampa, Greenville, Orlando, and Miami-Fort Lauderdale locations. If you prefer Portuguese, we’ve also covered Dallas and Orlando. With diverse training locations and experienced mentors, we make it easy for veterans to get started in the industry and transition into a rewarding career.
If you’re a veteran choosing tattooing for the creativity, stability, and a strong sense of community,then this career might be your next mission. And with Ink Different Tattoo School, you’ll have the best training, mentorship, and job security to make it happen. Ready to trade your fatigues for a tattoo machine? We’re here to help.
Submit your art today and start your journey toward becoming a professional Tattoo Artist! Call/Text 1-917-227-2842
Why Are Veterans Choosing Tattooing as Their New Career?
Transitioning out of the military can be difficult. It feels like stepping into a new world where yelling is optional, and camouflage is a choice. Many veterans are choosing tattooing as their next career move, and honestly, it makes perfect sense. The discipline of the military instills a strong work ethic. It also adds a commitment to excellence, and the ability to perform under pressure. these are all critical skills for becoming a successful tattoo artist!
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, there are over 16 million veterans in the U.S., and a lot of them transition to civilian life each year. Many struggle to find careers that match their skills, but the tattoo industry offers an opportunity for creativity, financial stability, and a close-knit work environment. A 2022 survey found that many veterans experience employment difficulties post-service, making hands-on careers like tattooing a great fit for those looking to leverage their discipline and skillset in a non-traditional way.
Tattooing allows for creative expression, a great way for veterans to process their experiences and tell their own stories in ink. Plus, many veterans already have tattoos, which means they understand their significance and artistry from a personal perspective. But why is this the profession of choice for many who have served? Let’s break it down.
Apply for the apprenticeship program at our Tattoo School! Find a tattoo apprenticeship near me
Does Tattooing Offer the Same Camaraderie as the Military?
One thing veterans miss when they leave the service? The bond. The military fosters a level of brotherhood and shared experience that’s tough to replicate. But walk into a tattoo studio, and you’ll find a similar dynamic! Tight-knit teams, shared war stories (albeit about ink and clients instead of combat zones), and a commitment to mastering a craft! Many tattoo studios have a strong culture of mentorship. Here, experienced tattoo artists guide newer ones through the ropes, much like how more soldiers train fresh recruits.
Tattooing isn’t a solo endeavor. It’s an industry built on mentorship, respect, and skill-building. Just like in the military, tattoo apprentices work up through training. They learn from experienced professionals before earning their stripes (literally and figuratively). This progression mirrors the chain of command and career growth in the armed forces. Therefore, tattooing is a familiar and comfortable transition for many veterans! A lot of veteran tattoo artists say they enjoy the studio environment because it provides a sense of belonging and teamwork they once had.
Many veterans are choosing tattooing for the deep sense of purpose it gives them. Helping clients memorialize significant events, lost loved ones, or personal milestones through ink. Tattooing as a career for veterans has been steadily growing, with veteran-owned tattoo shops becoming more common nationwide. There are now over 500 veteran-owned tattoo studios in the U.S., highlighting the demand for artists who understand military culture and its significance in tattooing.
Looking for a guaranteed job offer as a Tattoo Artist? Start your tattoo apprenticeship today!
Are Veterans Already Built for a Tattoo Career?
If you think about it, military training prepares veterans for tattooing in ways they might not expect. Discipline? Check. Attention to detail? Check. Handling high-pressure situations? Double check. A steady hand from years of firearm training? That’s a tattoo artist’s superpower.
According to the Pew Research Center, 30% of Americans have at least one tattoo. That number is even higher among military personnel, with nearly 70% of service members reporting having at least one piece of ink. Most veterans already have the ability to focus for extended periods. This is essential when executing tattoo designs, as most require precision and patience. Studies show that over 70% of military personnel who get tattoos do it to commemorate their service. Therefore, veterans have a natural understanding of the deep meaning behind tattoos.
Additionally, military personnel are accustomed to following protocols, making them more receptive to the hygiene and safety standards crucial in the tattoo industry.
Did you know our tattoo school, Ink Different, has locations in several exciting cities across the United States? We do! We have locations in Brooklyn, Los Angeles, Orange County, Chicago, Tampa, Miami, Philadelphia, St. Louis, Atlanta and Connecticut.
Is Tattooing a Good Financial Move?
Many veterans qualify for educational benefits under the GI Bill, which can sometimes be applied to vocational training—including tattoo apprenticeships. That means they can train without massive debt, making it a practical and financially sound career move. Unlike traditional college degrees, which can take years to complete, tattoo apprenticeships offer a faster path to earning potential, allowing veterans to start making money while they learn.
The tattoo industry generates over $1.5 billion annually and is projected to continue growing. Tattoo artists can make solid money, and their earning power increases with experience. Some even open their own tattoo studios. This decision gives them the freedom and stability they might not find in traditional employment. In fact, as tattooing is mostly cash-based, tattoo artists often have the flexibility to manage their income effectively and take control of their financial future.
Also, tattooing’s nature allows veterans to build a personal brand, set their hours, and craft a career that suits their lifestyle! Veterans looking for financial independence may find that tattooing provides an ideal balance of stability and flexibility. Depending on their clientele and location, a highly skilled tattoo artist can earn anywhere from $50,000 to over $150,000 annually. Some top-tier tattoo artists make even more, mainly if they specialize in high-end custom work or own tattoo studios.
Looking for information for parents of young Tattoo Artists? Continue reading about parents who want to help their children become Tattoo Artists.
Where Can Veterans Train with Us?
If you speak Spanish, we’ve got you covered! Our Spanish-speaking mentors are ready to guide you at our New York City, Chicago, Tampa, Greenville, Orlando, and Miami-Fort Lauderdale locations. If you prefer Portuguese, we’ve also covered Dallas and Orlando. With diverse training locations and experienced mentors, we make it easy for veterans to get started in the industry and transition into a rewarding career.
If you’re a veteran choosing tattooing for the creativity, stability, and a strong sense of community,then this career might be your next mission. And with Ink Different Tattoo School, you’ll have the best training, mentorship, and job security to make it happen. Ready to trade your fatigues for a tattoo machine? We’re here to help.
Submit your art today and start your journey toward becoming a professional Tattoo Artist! Call/Text 1-917-227-2842
