I "discovered" these programs through LinkedIn and am very, very interested in them, particularly the USAA program, but the Sans Institute program is interesting for the Cyber aspect. I'd like to find out if anyone has any experience with them. I am trying to find out if I even qualify for the programs as I come from an Intel background (the Sans Institute requires a BA/BS with 1 year experience).
Also what is the best way to ask for a resume review for both federal and private postings? I have written an outline for the master resume as well as an "officer" resume of just my experiences as an officer (the last 8 years) as I am not sure if my experiences past 10 years ago will even be applicable today.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Answers
I recently completed the Sans Vet Sucess Academy a few months ago. The program was absolutely worth it. They provide 3 OnDemand courses with certification attempts at no cost to you. Each course is blocked for a month. It gives you good exposure to information security if you are new to it. They connect you with someone else who has completed the course and done well in it for mentorship. After completing the Academy, they have another individual that can help do introductions to a host of people at numerous companies. Connect with me on Linkedin or shoot me a message and I can provide more insight into it.
Hi Nathan, The same way that you found "USAA VetFit and Sands Institute" on LinkedIn, search for fellow LinkedIn profiles of previously transitioned Military members to ask them how they were successful. This will not only give you ideas for your transition, but will also build your network with like-minded individuals who have similar backgrounds and interests. I am a Cyber Security business owner so please send me a request to connect on LinkedIn so that I can share a few more ideas that have worked well for other transitioning service members. Thx, Galon Miller
Thank you for your service!
The SANS courses are pricey, but are absolutely worth it - especially if you complete the certificate afterwards. I would also recommend looking into ISACA for continuing education credits and current topic webinars.
I came from quasi-government and saw a few resumes that were military heavy. We generally passed on those, simply because they didn’t outline how that experience translated into civilian jobs. I recommend looking at Dice.com or Indeed.com for resume writing advice - both those sites are IT industry focused.
Good luck, and please let me know if you’d like more info!
Thank you for your service. I don't know anything about the programs offered on LinkedIn, but I can make some other suggestions. I work at Raytheon and we are always looking for new talent in all areas.
Give your resume a format change and lead with a summary that outlines your skills and qualifications. Share generalities from past positions to translate how it will be beneficial in new roles, like skills, duties, projects or management. Use clear civilian language to describe your career objectives, but highlight key wording from job descriptions and any accomplishments you have achieved. Keep the verbiage in present tense and have others read through it for feedback. If you can pursue any volunteer opportunities, contract jobs, certifications or even CEU (Continuing Education Units) courses will show how interested you are and make recruiters take notice.
Large companies have numerous professional development opportunities of all kinds. Look at all the positions offered, not just specific jobs and you will be amazed at the possibilities. Once you find any position, take advantage of in-house development and/or training programs which always shows management that you are willing to do and learn more.
Kindest regards,
Merry Vickers
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