Does the Army have some sort of benefit that will help me pay for certification programs?
Also check out http://www.wgu.edu/online_it_degrees/programs#
As part of your approved degree program you will earn various IT certifications. Which certs you earn depend on your particular program.
College of Information Technology
College of Information Technology Explore the online IT degrees offered by WGU:
SPC (Join to see) said that welding was his backup plan if IT didn't work out for him.
You might also care to consider this as well, I've read it pays quite well, I think....
Underwater Careers for Veterans - Careers - CDA Technical Institute
CDA Technical Institute (formerly Commercial Diving Academy) is owned and operated by an experienced military vet and active commercial diver - Captain Ray Black. This career path allows for military veterans to utilize their training, survival skills, commitment and determination developed while serving in the military.
I actuaslpy think this is fairly close to what you want from the Amer welding society, specifically for military transition....
Veterans Welding Training Program | American Welding Society Education Online
UAW-Ford and Wounded Warriors Family Support have partnered to provide a training program in welding for U.S. military veterans.
This one is directly related to military transition for welding, look on Google for military online distance learning for welding....
This is the ACE page on military learning, well worth reading....
College Credit for Military Service
College Credit for Military Service