Hello all, I'm junior right now who's interested in data science. I'm considering joining the military after high school. Any insights on which military branch offers the most opportunity for data scientists?
Hey there! It's great to hear that you're gearing up for a career in data science and are considering the military as a route to hone your skills and gain experience.
While every military branch relies on data science to some extent, the Army and the Air Force (including the Air Force's subdivision, the Space Force), seem to offer the most robust opportunities for data scientists right now.
The U.S. Army's Operations Research Systems Analyst (ORSA) is a career field specifically related to data analysis. Soldiers in this field use mathematical and statistical techniques to support decision making, and data science is an important part of their work.
On the other hand, the Air Force and Space Force have recognized the importance of data science in their operations. Therefore, they have several related career fields, such as Operations Research Analyst, Intelligence Analyst, and Cyberspace Operations Officer. Particularly, the Space Force, the newest military branch, focuses on operations related to space and cyberspace, both fields being heavily grounded on data science.
Whatever branch you choose, keep in mind that the military can provide excellent training and career experience in data science. However, entry into any of these roles often requires a degree or significant coursework in data science or a related field, which you may want to consider before making a final decision. Good luck with your decision!
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