Veterans are in high demand in the defense tech industry due to their military skills, security clearances, and leadership experience. Here’s how to break into this field:
Earn Certifications: Start with certifications like CompTIA Security+ (required for many defense roles), AWS Certified Solutions Architect, or CISSP to fill skill gaps.
A Veteran’s Guide to a Cybersecurity Career Transition
Step 1: Match Your Military Skills to Tech Jobs
Your military background has given you skills that are in high demand within the defense tech industry. The challenge is to translate those skills into terms that resonate with hiring managers in the civilian world.
Military Job Translation Tools
Tools like the O*NET OnLine Military Skills Translator can help connect your service experience to civilian tech roles. For instance, if you served as a Navy Information Systems Technician (IT), the translator might suggest roles like Network Administrator or Information Security Analyst.
When using these tools, emphasize your technical expertise instead of focusing on military-specific terms. For example, instead of saying, “Operated AN/PRC-117G tactical radio,” you could describe it as, “Managed secure communication systems with 99% uptime in mission-critical environments”.
Highlighting Your Security Clearance
Your security clearance can be a powerful advantage, especially for roles requiring immediate work on classified projects. Here’s how to make the most of it:
Include your clearance level prominently on your resume and LinkedIn profile.
Search for cleared positions using platforms like ClearanceJobs.com.
Keep your clearance active to stay eligible for classified roles.
For example, Boeing has hired over 13,500 veterans since 2010, often seeking candidates with active clearances.
When showcasing your military achievements, focus on measurable results. For instance, if you managed classified communication systems, you could write, “Implemented security protocols that reduced breach attempts by 40%”.
Once you’ve matched your military skills to the right roles, the next step is addressing any skill gaps through certifications (Step 2).
Step 2: Get Required Tech Certifications
Once you’ve aligned your skills, the next step is to earn certifications that defense tech roles often require. Focus on certifications that align with your security clearance (Step 1) and your military technical background.
Key Tech Certifications to Consider
Here are some certifications that can help you stand out:
Certification
Purpose
Timeline
Cost
CompTIA Security+
Ideal for entry-level cybersecurity roles
4-8 weeks
$381
AWS Certified Solutions Architect
Tailored for cloud computing jobs
2-3 months
$150
CISSP
Suited for senior cybersecurity positions
3-6 months
$749
CompTIA Security+ is particularly important because it’s required for DoD 8570 compliance, a common requirement for defense tech roles tied to security clearance.
For those with military service, CISSP can even waive one year of required work experience.
Ways to Cover Certification Costs
Veterans have access to several programs to help offset the cost of certifications:
GI Bill: Covers exam fees and related courses.
VET TEC: Offers funding for training without affecting your GI Bill benefits.
DoD SkillBridge: Provides training opportunities during your final 180 days of service.
COOL Programs: Branch-specific funding options for certifications.
Once you’ve obtained the necessary certifications, you’ll be ready to tap into veteran-focused hiring initiatives (Step 3) to land targeted roles in defense tech.
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Step 3: Use Veteran Hiring Programs
Once you’ve earned your certifications, it’s time to tap into veteran-focused hiring programs. Many major tech companies and defense contractors have established pathways specifically tailored for veterans transitioning into defense tech roles.
Military Training Programs
Several top tech companies offer training programs that combine technical education with practical experience. Here are a few standout options:
Program
Duration
Highlights
Requirements
AWS Military Apprenticeship
10-18 weeks + 12 months on-the-job training
Paid training for roles like Cloud Support Associate
High school diploma
Microsoft MSSA
17 weeks
Training in cloud, cybersecurity, and database management
Must be within 6 months of military separation
DoD SkillBridge
Up to 180 days
Gain industry experience while still on active duty
Requires command approval
For example, the AWS Military Apprenticeship prepares veterans for positions like Software Development Engineer or Cloud Support Associate, offering a mix of classroom learning and hands-on training.
Defense Contractor Programs
Defense contractors also provide excellent opportunities for veterans. Boeing’s Future Force program, in collaboration with IVMF, includes certification courses and clear employment pathways. Other strong options include:
Northrop Grumman’s Operation IMPACT: Focuses on supporting disabled veterans.
Raytheon’s Junior Military Officer Program: Aims to develop leadership skills in transitioning military officers.
When applying to these programs, highlight certifications like Security+ or CISSP from Step 2. If you have an active security clearance, be sure to mention it, as it can significantly boost your application for roles requiring clearance.
These programs are excellent entry points into the industry. Next, you’ll want to focus on building connections within the field (Step 4).
Step 4: Build Your Tech Industry Network
Building a solid network is key to breaking into defense tech roles. Veterans can tap into both military and civilian networks to uncover opportunities in this sector.
Create a Strong LinkedIn Profile
Think of your LinkedIn profile as your professional calling card. To make it stand out for defense tech roles, focus on these areas:
Profile Section
What to Include
Tips
Headline
Highlight military and tech expertise
Example: “Army Signal Corps Veteran | Cybersecurity Specialist | TS/SCI Clearance”
Summary
Showcase transferable skills and clearance
Emphasize leadership, technical know-how, and security credentials
Experience
Translate military roles into civilian terms
Use terms like “network security” instead of military-specific jargon
Skills
Blend technical and military skill sets
Include certifications (e.g., Python, AWS), technical skills, and leadership abilities
When detailing military roles, use civilian-friendly language. For instance, replace “Led tactical communications unit” with “Managed secure networks for 500+ users.”
Join Veteran Tech Groups
Veteran-focused tech groups can connect you with like-minded professionals and potential employers. Two standout options:
VetsinTech: Offers virtual networking events and workshops tailored to veterans. It’s a hands-on way to gain tech experience and build connections.
CyberVetsUSA: Links veterans directly with hiring managers at top defense firms.
While networking, highlight your security clearance (from Step 1) and certifications. Once your network is in place, you’ll be ready to approach employers actively seeking veteran talent (Step 5).
Step 5: Find Veteran-Ready Employers
Once you’ve built a strong network, focus on employers with established programs for hiring veterans in defense tech. Look for companies that have a track record of hiring veterans, rather than those with surface-level initiatives.
Leading Defense Tech Companies
Here are some standout companies with a solid commitment to veterans:
Company
Veteran Hiring Highlights
Boeing
15% of workforce are veterans; offers aerospace certification training
Booz Allen Hamilton
Employs over 10,000 veterans; provides reservist support
Roles aligned with your security clearance (e.g., TS/SCI positions for TS/SCI holders)
Reimbursement for certifications like CISSP renewals
Military leave policies and salary adjustments for reservists
Veteran-focused mentorship programs
Evaluate Based On:Career Development
Training programs designed for veterans
Clear paths for promotion that value military experience
Mentorship opportunities pairing new hires with veteran employees
Military-Specific Support
Paid leave for military duties
Salary adjustments for reservists on deployment
Assistance with maintaining security clearances
Alignment with Your Journey
Matches your security clearance level (Step 1)
Supports certifications you’ve earned (Step 2)
Leverages veteran hiring programs you identified earlier (Step 3)
“Companies with veterans in management roles often have a better understanding of veterans’ needs and potential”, says the leader of ManTech’s Veteran Employee Resource Group.
Targeting the Right Employers
Focus on companies recognized as HIRE Vets Medallion winners or connect with veterans working at organizations like Lockheed Martin or General Dynamics through LinkedIn.
With a clear list of target employers, you’re ready to take the next steps toward launching your defense tech career.
Conclusion: Start Your Defense Tech Career
By working through these five steps – from translating your skills to targeting the right employers – you’ll be well-prepared to meet the demand for veterans in the defense tech industry. Your skills (Step 1), certifications (Step 2), and security clearance give you a strong advantage in this expanding field.
Immediate Next Steps
Finalize your skills translation using the tools from Step 1.
Engage with networking groups highlighted in Step 4.
Apply to the companies listed in Step 5 within the next 30 days.
Pair your security clearance (Step 1) with certifications (Step 2) and veteran hiring programs (Step 3) to stand out in the competitive defense tech job market.
Keep Building Your Career
Use the VA’s VR&E program for transition coaching.
Explore veteran hubs at companies mentioned in Step 5.
Stay on top of certification renewals with funding options from Step 2.
“Companies with veterans in management roles often have a better understanding of veterans’ needs and potential”, says the leader of ManTech’s Veteran Employee Resource Group.
Let me tell you about one of my favorite organizations for veterans.
It’s a mentorship and coaching course designed for veterans and former elite athletes run by Shift Group.
imageWhat do they do?
Shift Group takes you through a self-guided course. If you really focus, you can knock it out in three days.
In that course, they help you answer a few questions:
What are your personal values?
What do you like to do?
What are you good at?
What type of work do you want to do?
What type of company do you want to work for?
After you complete the training module, you get paired with a coach who can work with you to help you find the best company to work for and help you get hired.
What are their results?
Simply speaking, the numbers speak for themselves.
1000+ Athletes and Veterans placed
300+ Hiring Partners
<5% attrition(industry average is 35%)
9 months average time to promotion (2x faster than average)
They have quite simply figured it out. Shift knows how to place people in new roles where they thrive and the company is happy.
That’s also why their program is free for veterans. They do the work with you up front and everyone has a better result on the back side.
Want to learn more? Check out Shift Group here.
