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Executive Summary

Over 10,000 members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) transition to civilian life annually, often encountering barriers to employment and further education. Despite possessing extensive training and experiences, many military-connected learners struggle to have their technical, leadership, and organizational skills and competencies formally acknowledged or translated into civilian credentials. This persistent disconnect between military training and civilian credentialing continues to limit access to postsecondary programs and career opportunities. 

The development of structured mechanisms for the recognition of Military Education and Training (MET) within Canada’s postsecondary education system has garnered increasing attention. In particular, colleges and polytechnic institutions have demonstrated potential in supporting military-connected learners through short-term, skills-based programs that align with workforce demands while acknowledging existing expertise.

This report synthesizes national and provincial research to understand current practices, barriers, and strategies for improved recognition of military learning at postsecondary institutions, ultimately informing policy development and fostering systemic change across Canada’s education and employment landscapes.