Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background before joining VetSec?
I joined VetSec in 2023 while planning my transition out of the Navy. I had been serving for six years as a Cryptologic Technician Networks (CTN), working across cyber warfare roles. I was looking to pivot out of the DoD/Gov space and into the private sector. A poster I knew from Reddit pointed me toward VetSec, and it ended up being exactly what I needed—veterans and cybersecurity professionals who understood both my background and the path I wanted to take.
How did you first learn about VetSec?
I found VetSec through Reddit. I followed a poster who really knew Navy cyber and had insight into the civilian side. I reached out, and they pointed me here. Around the same time, I was building out my LinkedIn and started following VetSec’s page there, too.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during your transition?
Everywhere I looked, I ran into friction. My biggest challenge was translating my military cyber experience into something that made sense in the private sector. I had a deep understanding of the DoD cyber landscape, but little clarity on how to present that in a way recruiters or hiring managers would understand. Advice was often vague or oversimplified. I needed real, detailed insight—and that’s what VetSec gave me.
Can you describe your experience with VetSec’s training and mentorship programs?
Most of my mentorship came from the resume-help and jobs-discussion channels. I had tons of conversations—DMs, comments, feedback loops—with people who really knew the game. They were patient, honest, and most importantly, helpful. They didn’t just encourage me—they gave me the tools and direction I needed.
What specific resources or support did you find most valuable?
The resume-help channel was a game-changer. That alone made a huge difference. On top of that, I was selected to attend SleuthCon in DC, which was an awesome experience. I met great people, learned a lot, and got to see how the community shows up in person. Grateful for that opportunity.
How has the VetSec community impacted you personally and professionally?
Professionally, it gave me clarity and confidence. Personally, it gave me a space where I didn’t have to explain myself—everyone already understood the context. Translating military language and experience into civilian terms is a major hurdle, but inside VetSec, you don’t have to do that. There’s a shared understanding that makes communication smoother and more meaningful.
Can you share a specific moment or achievement from your time with VetSec that you’re proud of?
Definitely. I had landed interviews for a Lead Security Engineer role at Toyota in Dallas. John Stoner offered to help me prep. The interview process took time—I thought I’d been ghosted—but eventually they came back with an offer for what turned out to be my dream role. That prep help made a real difference.
Where are you currently in your cybersecurity career, and how did VetSec contribute to that success?
I just separated from the Navy after 8 years as a CTN and accepted a Lead Security Engineer position at Toyota. I’m also finishing up my degree in Cybersecurity. VetSec played a big role in that success—giving me space to learn, ask questions, and connect with people who truly understood both sides of the transition: the military side and the cyber job market. That kind of support was missing before I found the community.
Reflecting on your journey, how do you think your career and growth would have been different without VetSec?
Without VetSec, I think I would have been stuck in a feedback loop of incomplete or inaccurate guidance. I had people in my circle with experience, but they didn’t always fully understand the civilian side of cybersecurity—or how to articulate my background effectively. VetSec gave me both: real insight and real understanding. I credit a big part of my successful transition to this community.
What are your future aspirations in cybersecurity?
I want to be a highly effective contributor on a top-tier security team. Over time, if the environment is right, I’d like to move into leadership. But first, I’m focused on building deep expertise and bringing real value.
What advice would you give to other veterans considering cybersecurity and joining VetSec?
Be honest with yourself—this field isn’t a guaranteed path to big money. It demands time, commitment, and constant learning. But if you’re serious, and if you love the challenge, it’s incredibly rewarding. VetSec can give you the direction, mentorship, and clarity you’ll need—so don’t hesitate to join and plug in.