I've been struggling to find a decent job in 2026, and it's been incredibly frustrating. After five years out of the military, I've applied to more jobs in a single week than I ever did before. I often think I should have just completed 20 years in the infantry or gotten a 100% disability rating like many of my fellow veterans. The civilian job market feels like a complete mess. I'm 26, capable, and have a wealth of experience in low-voltage data center work, construction, and sales. Yet, I've been turned down for even basic security positions. With a mortgage and kids to support, the job search has become the most humiliating experience of my life. I've even looked into apprenticeships, but it seems like no one is willing to train anyone anymore. It's disheartening, and I can understand why so many people just give up.