Interested in Military Programmer Jobs?

I'm a junior and super into tech stuff. I've heard there are programmer jobs in the military. How do I qualify for these roles and are they a good choice for a future career?

To qualify for programmer roles in the military, as with most technical roles, you require a solid foundation in mathematics and science. By the time you graduate high school, you should aim to be proficient in math up to calculus and have a fundamental understanding of computer science. It's also important to have a strong grasp of a programming language, such as Java, C++, or Python.

To formalize these skills, consider earning a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, IT, or even Cybersecurity if you're interested in that branch of programming. This will set you in good stead when applying for programming roles in the military after college. You can choose to go through an ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) program in college, or apply to the US Military Academy (West Point), the US Air Force Academy, or the US Naval Academy. These all offer excellent technical education. Military academies provide tuition-free education in exchange for a commitment of service in the military, usually for at least 5 years.

Regarding whether military programming is a good choice for a future career, it depends on what you want. Working as a military programmer can be quite impactful; you would play a significant role in ensuring successful military operations. You could be involved in creating or maintaining systems that analyze intelligence data, improve communication, or ensure the security of military networks.

These positions also offer a form of job security and the prospect of reasonable pay. Beyond that, armed services are known to provide excellent training and skill development, which can be transferred to the civilian world should you decide to leave the military in the future.

However, being a military programmer is quite different from being a programmer in the civilian world. There may be more bureaucracy, the hours can be long, and the work high-pressure and high-stakes. Engaging in military service also comes with potential physical risks and the personal sacrifice of time away from family, among other things.

Research thoroughly, talk with people who are already in these roles, and take your time in deciding if it's the right fit for you. It's quite a commitment, so you want to be sure before you step into it.