Senergy Development Solutions project engineer Magnus Jeffrey successfully made that move himself.
It gave him the idea to set up The Network Aberdeen to help other former service staff interested in making a similar change.
Jeffrey formed the group as a means of providing leavers with the information and contacts they need to get their foot in the door and learn how to adapt their knowledge to an industry crying out for skilled staff.
Although he felt he might have lacked the technical experience for a career change to the industry, it transpired that the nine years Jeffrey spent operating in some of the most demanding conditions and environments meant he had the skills for taking on a role with Senergy.
"The hardest thing is that initial step," Jeffrey said.
"A lot of people leave the services without relevant industry qualifications but they often have the knowledge and skills needed, as well as broader experience garnered from operational military work."
Jeffrey said most leavers struggled to get past the initial application stage though.
"Their applications often fall foul of the automated systems as it is difficult to relay their appropriate skills and expertise on paper," he said.
"If the same individual is able to meet with someone and given the opportunity to explain what they can offer, the outcome can be very positive for both parties."
SDS has experienced rapid growth due to increasing demand for its niche services in oil and gas facilities.
Recognising the value of the transferable knowledge held by those with similar military backgrounds, SDS also recently recruited UK infantryman Andy Wilson and ex-Swedish Navy officer Erik Bergman.
Wilson received advice from past military members working in the sector before moving into the industry while Bergman decided to make the move after meeting SDS field development head Rob Fisher at an offshore survival training course.
Jeffrey set up The Network Aberdeen in 2011 because he realised there might be many more people without the contacts to help them take their first steps.
The independent organisation is attempting to gain charitable status and already has been successful in helping more than 10 people into work.
Besides supporting former military staff, The Network Aberdeen also is providing support to those leaving other uniformed services including the police and fire brigade.
Recent announcements by the UK government meant 26,000 troops over 250 career fields are eligible for redundancy.
In comparison, industry body Subsea UK estimates 10,000 people will be needed in its sector alone over the next 12 months.
In Australia organisations such as Chauvel Group and Firefox Talent are helping former military personnel to break into the resources sector.
