Moving from the armed forces to the private sector marks a pivotal career transition for many veterans. This shift can be daunting, especially as they navigate the complexities of civilian employment. Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with veterans who have successfully transitioned into the realm of cybersecurity. Their insights shed light on this growing field and its relevance to military skill sets.
Embarking on a Cybersecurity Journey
Shawn Dappen, the Senior Director of Sales Engineering at Menlo Security, emphasized the continuity he feels in his transition from the military to cybersecurity. “The battlefield has simply shifted,” he remarked. “In the Corps, my mission was to protect people and assets in the physical world. Now it’s about defending them in the digital one.” This perspective mirrors the sentiment of many veterans who see cyber defense as a continuation of their service, just adapted to new challenges. “The same mindset applies: stay alert, adapt quickly, and protect your team from unseen threats,” Dappen added, illustrating how the core principles of military training translate effortlessly into the tech space.
Echoing Dappen’s sentiments, Frankie Sclafani, Director of Cybersecurity Enablement at Deepwatch, highlighted his foundation in the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard, where he specialized in malware analysis and incident response. “My father was in law enforcement, which instilled in me a desire to do good,” Sclafani shared. His academic journey led him to a mentor who showcased the impact of digital forensics, solidifying his path in cybersecurity. “Whether you’re doing it in the military, for the FBI, or in the private sector, it’s all about being a defender,” he explained, underscoring a shared mission to protect.
Transitioning into cybersecurity can also unfold unexpectedly. Jeff Liford, Associate Director at Fenix24, spoke about his initial plans that evolved after moving out of uniform. “I served as an All Source Intelligence Analyst,” he said, describing how his role involved developing insights to disrupt adversarial activities. Initially focused on Systems Engineering, Liford soon found himself involved in cybersecurity due to the inherent overlap between these fields. “The Department of Defense reinforced this — it’s nearly impossible to work in IT without becoming involved in security in some form,” he explained, showcasing how adaptability is crucial for success in both military and civilian sectors.
The Alignment of Military and Cybersecurity Mindsets
Dappen articulated why many veterans find a natural fit in cybersecurity, stating that the industry aligns with military training and thinking. “We understand mission focus, chain of command, and the importance of protecting something bigger than ourselves,” he noted. The need for adaptability, teamwork, and rapid response to evolving threats in cybersecurity resonates deeply with veterans, making the transition smoother.
Sclafani added to this perspective by likening military missions to cybersecurity. “In the military, when you’re given a mission, you do everything in your power to accomplish it because lives may depend on it,” he reflected. “Although lives may not be at stake in cybersecurity, it’s still critical work, and veterans carry that dedication into their new roles.” The high levels of professionalism and commitment that veterans develop are invaluable assets in cybersecurity environments.
Unique Skill Sets: What Veterans Bring to Cybersecurity
Veterans possess a distinct set of skills that are advantageous within cybersecurity roles. “Discipline, mission focus, teamwork, and a defensive mentality are hallmarks of veterans,” Dappen asserted. These traits, combined with an understanding of threat detection and risk assessment, provide a robust foundation for success in cybersecurity. The training veterans undergo equips them uniquely for high-stakes situations, allowing them to operate effectively under pressure.
Liford contributed his own experiences, citing the military’s emphasis on understanding adversaries and operationalizing intelligence as crucial skills in cybersecurity. “The military trains you to act quickly and operate with imperfect information,” he noted, emphasizing the urgency that often accompanies cyber incidents, such as ransomware attacks. This blend of skills ensures veterans can remain effective even in chaotic situations.
Championing Veteran Inclusion in Cybersecurity
For Dappen, attracting more veterans into cybersecurity roles begins with raising awareness. “Companies could definitely do more,” he stated. He advocates for creating training programs and partnerships with veteran organizations to facilitate transitions. “Many veterans already have the mindset; they just need a door open to the mission,” he added, highlighting the importance of accessible pathways into the cybersecurity field.
Guidance for Veterans Entering Cybersecurity
Sclafani offers practical advice for veterans considering such a transition. “Take advantage of every resource available,” he urged. Programs like SkillBridge, which allows veterans to intern at companies while on active duty, can provide invaluable experience. Networking through communities like VetSec further aids in bridging the gap between military and civilian roles. “These resources help fill the cybersecurity skills gap while giving veterans an opportunity to apply their strengths,” he concluded, reinforcing the notion that the journey from military to cybersecurity can be both fulfilling and impactful.
