From the Frontline to the Firewall: How Veterans Are Finding Success in Cybersecurity Careers

Military veterans have a unique set of skills and experiences that make them highly valuable in the cybersecurity industry. Despite this, veterans often face challenges when transitioning from military service to civilian life and finding employment in the cybersecurity field. In this article, we will explore the employment rates of military veterans in cybersecurity careers with Fortune 500 companies and the different types of Department of Labor and Veteran Affairs funding sources available to help veterans and military spouses transition to careers in cybersecurity.

There are between 240,000-270,000 transitioning service members a year between all the branches and components (Active, Guard, and Reserve). So how does one find their way to success in their pursuit of a Cybersecurity career?

Fortune 500 companies are some of the largest and most successful corporations in the United States. These companies often have extensive cybersecurity needs and employ large numbers of cybersecurity professionals. For military veterans looking to transition to civilian cybersecurity careers, Fortune 500 companies can be an attractive option.

According to a report by the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF), military veterans are highly valued in the cybersecurity industry due to their discipline, attention to detail, and ability to work under pressure. However, despite this, veterans face challenges in securing employment in the field. In a survey of cybersecurity professionals, 49% of respondents reported that they did not know of any cybersecurity job openings specifically geared towards veterans.

Despite the challenges, many Fortune 500 companies are actively seeking to hire military veterans for cybersecurity roles. Additionally, there are countless midsized and small businesses that need cybersecurity professionals to secure their networks.

Different Types of Department of Labor and Veteran Affairs Funding Sources

There are a variety of Department of Labor and Veteran Affairs funding sources available to help transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses enter careers in cybersecurity. These funding sources can provide financial assistance for education and training programs, as well as job placement and other support services.

1. GI Bill

The GI Bill is a Department of Veterans Affairs program that provides education and training benefits to veterans and their dependents. The bill can be used to fund education and training programs in cybersecurity and other technology fields. The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides up to 36 months of education benefits, including tuition, housing, and other expenses. https://www.va.gov/education/eligibility/

2. Veterans Retraining Assistance Program (VRAP)

The Veterans Retraining Assistance Program (VRAP) is a Department of Veterans Affairs program that provides up to 12 months of education and training assistance to unemployed veterans. The program is designed to help veterans develop new skills and transition to high-demand careers, including cybersecurity. You must be enrolled though in a program that’s approved for VA Benefits which is provided by a technical school or community college. There are a lot of disqualifiers though so check them all out at https://veteran.com/veterans-retraining-assistance-program-vrap-overview/. This program has to lead to a certificate, non-college degree, or an Associate’s degree. approved program

3. Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA)

The Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA) is a federal law that provides veterans with preferential treatment in federal hiring. The law requires federal agencies to give veterans preference in hiring over non-veterans with similar qualifications. See here for more details and eligibility. https://www.doi.gov/employees/employmentlaw/veterans-employment-opportunity-act

4. Veterans Affairs Vocational Readiness (used to be Rehabilitation) and Employment Program (VR&E)

The Veterans Affairs Vocational Readiness and Employment Program (VR&E) provides education and training benefits to veterans with service-connected disabilities. The program can be used to fund education and training programs in cybersecurity and other high-demand fields. https://www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab/

5. Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA)

The Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) program provides financial assistance to military spouses who are seeking education and training to pursue portable careers. The program can be used to fund education and training programs in cybersecurity and other high-demand fields. It provides up to $4,000 of tuition assistance to eligible military spouses. Sign up here:  https://bit.ly/3maIzks

Conclusion

Military veterans have a unique set of skills and experiences that make them highly valuable in the cybersecurity industry. Despite this, veterans often face challenges when transitioning from military service to civilian life and finding employment in the cybersecurity field. However, many Fortune 500 companies are actively seeking to hire veterans for cybersecurity roles, and there are a variety.