Veterans transitioning to civilian careers bring unique skills like leadership, discipline, and technical expertise. The tech industry values these abilities, offering tailored programs and career paths to help veterans succeed. Here are 8 top companies actively hiring veterans in tech, along with their standout initiatives:
- Amazon: Offers programs like AWS re/Start and Technical Apprenticeships for roles in cloud computing and software development.
- Boeing: Focuses on aerospace and cybersecurity through its Military Skills Program and SkillBridge internships.
- Tesla: Supports veterans with leadership development and networking through its Veterans Task Force.
- Meta: Provides training and networking via its Military Career Program and Veterans & Allies Resource Group.
- Cisco: Runs the Veterans Talent Incubation Program (VTIP) with a 20-week technical training curriculum.
- Microsoft: Offers the Military Software & Systems Academy (MSSA), a 17-week program with guaranteed job interviews.
- ServiceNow: Aligns military skills with tech roles through a mentorship-driven Veterans Career Program.
- Accenture: Combines structured training and certifications for roles in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
Why Veterans Should Consider Tech
- High Demand: Tech jobs held by veterans grew by 37% between 2014 and 2023.
- Higher Pay: Veterans with tech skills earn 59% more on average.
- Early Promotions: Veterans in tech are 39% more likely to advance quickly.
Key Features of These Programs
- Training: Structured programs to bridge skill gaps.
- Mentorship: Veteran-led guidance for career growth.
- Certifications: Opportunities to earn industry-recognized credentials.
- Support Networks: Veteran-focused employee resource groups.
These companies provide clear pathways to help veterans transition into thriving tech careers. Whether you’re skilled in cybersecurity, project management, or engineering, these programs can help you leverage your military experience in the tech industry.
Why All Military Veterans Should Work in The Tech Industry
1. Amazon: Military Hiring Program
Amazon has made a strong commitment to hiring veterans and military spouses through its Military Hiring Initiative, aiming to add over 100,000 individuals from these groups to its workforce by 2024 [13]. This program highlights how military experience can seamlessly translate into roles within the tech industry.
One standout opportunity is the Amazon Technical Apprenticeship Program, which provides veterans with paid classroom training lasting 10 to 18 weeks, followed by up to a year of on-the-job experience [13][10]. This program helps veterans transition into roles such as cloud consulting, software development, and technical account management [13].
Other key programs for veterans include:
- AWS re/Start: A training program focused on cloud certifications.
- Technical Academy: A nine-month paid program designed for software engineering.
- Career Choice: Offers tuition assistance for training in high-demand fields.
To further support veterans, Amazon has created the Warriors@Amazon employee resource group. This group includes over 10,000 members, consisting of veterans, military spouses, and allies. Additionally, Amazon recognizes Veterans Day as a paid holiday company-wide [2][11].
Amazon also offers resources to help veterans build technical skills. For example, the company has pledged to provide free cloud computing skills training to 29 million people by 2025, with veterans eligible for VA reimbursement for certification exam fees under the GI Bill [13].
Through the SkillBridge Program, transitioning service members can gain hands-on experience in fields like cloud computing, robotics, and software engineering, helping them prepare for civilian tech careers.
2. Boeing: Military Skills Program
Boeing has built a strong connection with veterans, with over 15% of its workforce coming from military backgrounds [3]. Through its Military Skills Program, the company helps veterans transition into careers in aerospace and technology by offering specialized training and career development opportunities [1][2].
A standout feature of this program is the SkillBridge initiative, which provides internships in areas like aerospace engineering, software development, and cybersecurity for those moving out of military service. Impressively, 94% of participants secure full-time roles after completing the program [2][3][9].
Boeing offers veterans four key career pathways:
- Boeing Learning Together Program: Focused on STEM education.
- Technical Fellowship: Advanced mentorship opportunities.
- Cybersecurity Apprenticeship: Hands-on training in cybersecurity operations.
- Accelerated Leadership Program: A management-focused career track [4][14].
The program’s impact is clear through individual success stories. For example, Scott Harkey, a former Supply Officer, transitioned into a transportation analytics role. Similarly, Don Koval, a 20-year Air Force veteran, used his aircraft expertise to secure a position in electrical engineering [9].
Veterans also benefit from Boeing’s Military Skills Translator, a tool that aligns their military experience with relevant tech roles [12]. Additional perks include:
- Integration with the GI Bill for tuition support [12]
- Access to veteran-specific career counseling
- Veteran-focused employee resource groups (ERGs)
- Flexible work schedules tailored for reservists [14]
3. Tesla: Veterans at Work
While companies like Amazon and Boeing focus on structured training, Tesla takes a different approach by tapping into veterans’ ability to thrive in high-pressure environments. Through its Veterans Task Force (VTA), Tesla helps former military members transition into leadership roles, using a veteran-led recruiting team to align their skills with the right positions [3][7].
"Many former soldiers find the transition to Tesla’s dynamic workplace organic due to similarities in pace and structure", says Kristen Kavanaugh, a Navy and Marine Corps veteran who leads Tesla’s Veterans Task Force [3].
Tesla’s veteran-focused initiatives include:
- Monthly networking sessions to foster connections
- Career advancement support through the Veterans Task Force
- Leadership development programs tailored to veterans
In 2024, Tesla hired 800 veterans [3], with many excelling in manufacturing and engineering roles where their military training aligns well with Tesla’s operational needs [7]. Veterans have become a key part of Tesla’s technical teams, bringing precision and discipline to their work.
Tesla also ensures continued support through:
- Collaborative monthly sessions to refine programs
- Opportunities for leadership development to help veterans grow within the company
This approach focuses on practical application, helping veterans integrate their military experience into Tesla’s fast-paced, innovation-driven environment. It offers a hands-on pathway to leadership, setting it apart from programs like Microsoft’s training academy (discussed later).
4. Meta: Military Career Program
Meta has developed its Military Career Program to help veterans transition into tech roles. Through its Veterans & Allies Resource Group, the company provides resources like monthly speaker series, recruiting panels, and professional development tools[6].
"Our veteran hiring goal reflects the unique value military experience brings to tech", says John Oliveira, Meta’s Veterans Program Manager[8].
Meta has also teamed up with Hiring Our Heroes, aiming to recruit 1,000 veterans and military spouses by 2026[8]. Key roles include software engineering, data operations, and cybersecurity[9].
In addition, Meta collaborates with organizations like BreakLine Education and Vets In Tech to offer training programs tailored for veterans entering the tech industry[6]. The Veterans@ employee resource group provides ongoing support, helping veterans build a strong network within the company[8].
5. Cisco: Veterans Program
Cisco’s Veterans Enablement and Troop Support (VETS) program offers the Veterans Talent Incubation Program (VTIP), a 20-week mix of classroom instruction and hands-on experience[1].
This program equips veterans with skills in:
- Network engineering basics
- Cybersecurity operations
- IT project management
- Technical support systems[6]
As of 2022, Cisco had hired over 3,000 veterans in the U.S., showcasing their commitment to veteran employment[3].
Support for Veterans at Cisco:
| Support Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| VERO Network | A veteran employee resource group offering community support. |
| Military Benefits | Tailored leave policies for reservists[3]. |
Cisco’s program boasts a 90% job placement rate, thanks to its emphasis on technical training[1]. While Tesla focuses on leadership development through hands-on roles, Cisco’s approach highlights the transition of military expertise into tech careers.
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6. Microsoft: Military Training Academy
Microsoft takes a structured educational approach with its Military Software & Systems Academy (MSSA), providing veterans and service members a clear path into tech careers. Over 3,000 participants have already transformed their careers through this program. MSSA leverages military leadership skills and blends them with technical training, offering a model that combines academic depth with career preparation.
The program runs an intensive 17-week curriculum focused on four specialized technical tracks:
| Technical Track | Core Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| Cloud Development | Azure development, web applications |
| Cloud Administration | Infrastructure management, system operations |
| Cybersecurity Administration | Security protocols, threat detection |
| Database & Business Intelligence | Data management, analytics |
Program Highlights
- Job Placement Success: 90% of graduates land tech roles, thanks to guaranteed interviews with Microsoft or its partner companies [5][8][9].
- Competitive Salaries: Graduates start with an average salary of $70,000 [5].
- Supportive Resources: Participants gain access to mentorship from Microsoft employees, career coaching, and networking opportunities with hiring managers [4].
"The military taught me how to learn, adapt, and overcome. These skills were crucial in my transition to the tech industry", says U.S. Army veteran Tina Karr. After completing MSSA, she successfully moved from logistics to a role as a cloud solution architect at Microsoft [3].
Recent Updates for 2024
Microsoft has expanded MSSA to include both in-person and hybrid learning formats, making the program more accessible to veterans across the country [7]. Additionally, the company has pledged to hire 5,000 veterans and military spouses by 2025 [3].
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for MSSA, applicants must meet these requirements:
- Honorable discharge from the U.S. military
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Basic computer proficiency
- Strong analytical skills
- Full-time availability for the program [6]
Admissions are rolling, welcoming veterans with basic computer knowledge and an interest in technology, even if they lack prior technical experience [6][15].
7. ServiceNow: Veterans Career Program
ServiceNow takes a mentorship-first approach with its Veterans Career Program, established in 2018. The program is designed to help military veterans transition into tech careers by offering tailored training and mentorship. By focusing on aligning military skills with tech roles, ServiceNow has successfully hired over 600 veterans and military spouses, boasting an impressive 92% retention rate among participants [1][3][14].
Technical Career Pathways
ServiceNow provides clear pathways for veterans to transition into tech roles by aligning their military skills with specific positions:
| Role | Military Skill Alignment |
|---|---|
| Cloud Operations Specialist | Communications/IT systems |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | Intelligence/cryptology |
| ITSM Consultant | Operations management |
| Technical Support Engineer | Technical maintenance |
Training and Development
The program includes a 12-week bootcamp that blends hands-on projects with mentorship from veteran employees and personalized career coaching.
"The ServiceNow Veterans Career Program transformed my military cybersecurity experience into a thriving tech career", says John Smith, a former Navy cryptologist now working as a cybersecurity analyst. "The structured training approach and veteran mentorship made the transition feel natural" [14].
2024 Program Updates
Looking ahead, ServiceNow plans to expand its hiring goals to bring on 1,000 veterans by 2024. They are also introducing improved tools to better translate military skills into tech qualifications [3][4].
Veteran Benefits
Participants in the program gain access to several benefits, including:
- GI Bill-aligned tuition reimbursement
- Flexible scheduling for reservists
- Support from the Veterans ERG community
With a 95% job placement rate, the program has proven to be a strong bridge for veterans transitioning into tech careers [3].
8. Accenture: Military to Tech Program
Accenture wraps up our list by offering a global initiative that combines structured training with career growth opportunities tailored to veterans. Since its launch in 2016, the program has placed over 1,000 veterans in tech roles, boasting an impressive 85% retention rate after two years and a 40% promotion rate within three years[6][2]. With more than 2,000 veterans on staff, the company effectively transitions military experience into roles within the tech industry.
Technical Training Pathways
The program provides focused training tracks designed to meet industry needs:
| Training Track | Typical Role Placement |
|---|---|
| Cloud Computing | Cloud Solutions Architect |
| Cybersecurity | Security Analyst |
| Data Analytics | Data Scientist |
| Software Development | Software Engineer |
| Project Management | Technical Project Manager |
Bridging Military and Civilian Careers
Accenture supports veterans in navigating the shift from military to civilian careers by pairing them with mentors who are also veterans. This mentorship helps them translate their military expertise into skills valued by the tech industry.
Comprehensive Support Systems
The program includes several standout features to ease the transition:
- Accessibility support: Tailored assistance for veterans with disabilities[18].
- Global placement: Access to roles across Accenture’s international offices.
- Certifications: Opportunities to earn credentials with AWS, Azure, or GCP.
- Ongoing education: Continuous access to training in emerging technologies[17].
Program Features by Company
Several trends stand out in tech programs designed for veterans:
- Focused Training Programs: Companies offer intensive training sessions, typically lasting 16-20 weeks, to address technical skill gaps. For example, Microsoft uses an academy-style approach, while Cisco combines classroom and online instruction.
- Skill Translation Tools: Every company includes tools to help veterans translate their military experience into civilian roles. Boeing and Meta go a step further by employing veteran recruiters who provide tailored guidance for job placement.
-
Support Networks for Veterans: High placement rates (over 90%) are supported by key initiatives such as:
- Certifications tailored to specific tech fields
- Collaborations with groups like the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Wounded Warrior Project
- Employee resource groups offering mentorship to sustain career growth
These features allow veterans to connect their military background with roles that align with their skills and aspirations.
Next Steps for Veterans
Here’s how you can take action and set yourself up for success after exploring these eight companies:
Get Your Documents in Order
Make sure you have these key documents ready:
- DD-214
- Military transcripts
- Technical certifications
Strengthen Your Technical Skills
Boost your technical knowledge through these options:
- Earn certifications like CompTIA or AWS
- Use your GI Bill benefits for Microsoft MSSA courses
- Enroll in ServiceNow’s certification bootcamps
- Explore free coding resources such as Codecademy
Tap Into Transition Programs
Check out the Department of Defense’s SkillBridge program. It offers internships with participating companies while you continue to receive military pay and benefits.
Fine-Tune Your Application Approach
Translate your military experience into tech-friendly language by:
- Using tools like Boeing’s Military Skills Matcher
- Setting up alerts on veteran-focused career portals
- Participating in virtual events hosted by company employee resource groups (ERGs)
Build Your Network
Engage with veteran ERGs at the companies mentioned. These groups often hold virtual networking events tailored for service members transitioning into civilian roles[16].
FAQs
Veterans often have questions about company policies and which roles might be a good fit for them. Here are some common inquiries:
Do these companies hire veterans without tech experience?
Absolutely. All eight companies highlighted offer training programs tailored for veterans transitioning into tech, even without prior experience. These programs include technical training, mentorship, and certification assistance to help veterans gain the skills they need.
What types of roles are a good fit for veterans at these tech companies?
Veterans tend to thrive in roles like cybersecurity (drawing on their military security expertise), technical project management, and IT support, where leadership and handling high-pressure situations are highly valued.
How do these companies accommodate active reservists?
These companies follow USERRA requirements and go a step further by offering additional support, such as hybrid work arrangements, to help reservists balance their training and duties.
What certifications should veterans focus on?
Key certifications to consider include:
These certifications align with the training programs and resources provided by the featured companies, making them a practical starting point.