Little annoyed

So I have been working for THD since April and have begged to get my reach, baileymoore, PLD, forklift licenses . I wanted them so I could advance within the store, I did finally get them all the while learned to make keys, mix paint and cut rugs. Whenever there is a shift I can grab on the exchange I grab it even if it means a work a split shift. If there is a call out (which happens all the time) I come in and cover, sometimes multiple departments. When the merchandising lead position in garden/hardware (where I started) came up I was told to and did apply. Here I am thinking that I’m the only one that applied for it that has their licenses which is a requirement for the role so I should be good. In the interview they asked me about my qualifications and why I think I would be good for the role. I stated that having my Masters in Education and being retired military I can break down complex issues and relay them to people. Even the store manager said I was perfect for position. I just found out that they game it to someone with no licenses and almost two months less time at the store than me! What are your thoughts?