By Isa Rivera, Military ERG Leader, Coursera
On Independence Day, we cherish the liberties we possess — and we take pride in assisting U.S. service members and military spouses by providing job-related skills to help them forge their futures.
As the head of Coursera’s Military Employee Resource Group (ERG) and a member of a military household, I’m particularly pleased with our efforts to support military organizations via our social impact initiative, which offers complimentary learning opportunities to over 100 nonprofits.
Today, I wish to spotlight our partnership with the United Services Organization (USO), a nonprofit committed to empowering service members that provides free access to Coursera certification programs alongside the USO’s supportive services. Together, we’ve aided over 10,000 military learners in acquiring the skills and credentials necessary to enhance their careers.

“Since we began our partnership in April 2021, the collaboration has proven remarkably effective, and it has been awe-inspiring to see the collective influence Coursera and the USO have had in enhancing career possibilities for our military community,” remarked Lisa Elswick, USO Vice President of Programs.
Forging pathways from military to civilian careers
In 2024, the USO Transition Program created over 10,000 tailored Action Plans to assist service members and military spouses in furthering their careers, which encompass career guidance and access to the job-ready catalog on Coursera. More than 75% of the enrollments originated from active service personnel, with the Army and Navy being the most engaged military branches.
One participant, U.S. Army Capt. Philip H., held a degree in mechanical engineering prior to spending nine years in the Army, four of which were in special forces. He stated, “I wanted to expand my skill set to enhance my marketability as a candidate in the civilian sector.”
Philip reached his goal of becoming a software engineer after completing the IBM Data Analyst Certificate on Coursera.
Most sought-after certificate programs among USO members
Coursera presents over 90+ Entry-level Professional Certificates that cultivate job-ready skills in high-demand sectors – no degree or prior experience necessary. In 2024, certificate completions via the USO Program surged by 97% compared to the prior year. Industry-specific skills excelled with the most favored certificates being:
We feel honored to collaborate with the USO and other nonprofits to assist military learners in acquiring the skills necessary to shape their future.
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