Dr. Tyler Pieron talks with Michele Spiers from the American Council on Education (ACE) about how service members and veterans can make the most of their education benefits. They discuss translating military training into college credit, understanding the Joint Services Transcript, and using credit for prior learning to fast-track degree completion.
🪖 Key Highlights
- How ACE evaluates military and industry training for college credit
- Making the most of the Joint Services Transcript and CCAF
- Using CLEP, DSST, and language exams to earn extra credit
- Organizing transcripts and understanding transfer policies
- Resources for veterans—education centers, virtual counselors, and Student Veterans of America
- Dr. Pieron’s personal education journey from service to PhD
✅ Takeaways
- Gather all transcripts before applying
- Use the ACE Military Guide to identify credit opportunities
- Take national exams to accelerate progress
- Connect with veteran organizations and advisors
- Visit acenet.edu for tools and resources
Coming Home Well
Coming Home Well is a podcast dedicated to helping Veterans and their families navigate the journey of reintegration and wellness after military service. Hosted by Dr. Tyler Pieron, each episode explores alternative resources and innovative support systems that go beyond traditional approaches to healing the visible and invisible wounds of war.
From non-traditional therapies and community-based programs to expert interviews and practical tools, this podcast serves as a valuable guide for those seeking pathways to improved mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
In addition to spotlighting these resources, Dr. Pieron is occasionally joined by military historians to revisit key moments in our nation's military history—preserving the legacy of service and sacrifice, and providing context that deepens understanding of the Veteran experience.
Whether you're a Veteran, family member, caregiver, or advocate, Coming Home Well offers insights, connections, and tools to support a successful transition to civilian life.
Meet the Host
Dr. Tyler Pieron is an Army veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan (and a few other conflicts). He served in the Army’s Criminal Investigation Command as a Special Agent until he was medically retired. Tyler hosts Coming Home Well’s radio and podcast shows and focuses on TBI research and helping veterans wade through the bureaucracy to obtain benefits, especially education.
Tyler used his GI Bill benefits to earn a Master of Science degree in Cyber Security Policy and then a PhD. in Information Assurance after receiving a sabbatical and scholarship from the Pat Roberts Intelligence Scholars Program. Tyler lives with his wife Claire, their 3 children (2 boys and a girl), 3 dogs (Beagle, Boxer and Great Dane), 2 lizards (Bearded Dragon and Leopard Gecko), and many fish, near Charlottesville, VA, where he works with the Department of Defense on cyber intelligence issues.