Details about US military cyber jobs

I'm interested in pursuing a cyber job in the military after high school. Can anyone share insights on what these roles involve and any specific training or education required?

The military offers a variety of cyber-related roles across its branches such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Space Force, each with its unique operations and objectives. These roles may include Cyber Operations Specialist, Cyber Warfare Engineer, or Cyber Systems Operations. Jobs in this field may consist of identifying threats and vulnerabilities in cyberspace, maintaining and securing networks, or conducting attack missions.

The specifics of training depend on the role and branch you choose, but there are commonalities. In general, after you enlist, you'll attend Basic Training (also known as "Boot Camp") which all service members must complete. This will be followed by Advanced Individual Training (AIT) specifically for your chosen career path.

For cyber jobs, this typically involves highly specialized, in-depth training in IT, cybersecurity, and potentially even coding, depending on the specific job requirements. You might learn about firewall software, or how to monitor, detect, analyze, and respond to unauthorized activity within DoD information systems and networks.

In terms of education, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Some roles may require a college degree, especially for officer roles. Specific knowledge or coursework in IT or computer science could certainly be beneficial but keep in mind that the military provides its unique training catered to these cyber roles.

In the cyber realm, certifications like CompTIA Security+ can also hold value. The military may provide opportunities for servicemembers to acquire such certifications during their training or service tenure. Remember to continually inquire about these opportunities as they could significantly enhance your expertise.

While on active duty, or as a Reserve, you also have access to tuition assistance for furthering your education. This can be opportune to pursue an undergraduate or even a graduate degree in a related field while serving in the military, thereby enhancing your prospects in military and civilian roles in the future.

Overall, pursuing a cyber role in the military can be a rewarding career path that offers unique experiences and plenty of opportunities for growth. It can also position you for a wide array of careers post-service due to the demand for cyber professionals in the private sector.