In this edition of VetSec Impact Stories, Micheal explains the difficult transition out of the military at the start of COVID and the value he found in connecting with fellow veterans, training opportunities, and mentorship.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background before joining VetSec?
My name is MJ roberts and I am currently working as a systems analyst for a state agency. I was a SSgt in the Air Force for 6 years as a weapons troop on F-16’s. I got out in 2020 and was negatively affected by Covid economically. In 2023 I was able to try the VETTECH program and chose Code Fellows Cybersecurity path at the same time pursue my bachelors in Computer Science. I did this as the VETTECH program had success stories in the initial years with bootcamp grad’s finding meaning employment. Towards the end of the program, when I joined, bootcamps started becoming vilified and discouraged from employers. I sought employment help from all avenues, especially veteran resources, once I started on my path to IT and Cybersecurity. This included VetSec.
How did you first learn about VetSec, and what motivated you to get involved?
I first learned about it when I searched for veterans and cybersecurity and resources. I want to say it was on a list of websites to help and as well as people in the bootcamp recommending it.
What were some of the biggest challenges or obstacles you faced in transitioning to a cybersecurity career before joining VetSec?
I found the biggest hurdle was the job market became very selective as it became oversaturated seemingly as I joined the pool of applicants. It was pushed by everybody, including the federal government mainly, that cybersecurity was a career that needed people and this was showcased by the Vettech program as well as a separate USAJobs site strictly for cyber related fields.
Can you describe your experience with VetSec’s training and mentorship programs? What specific resources or support did you find most valuable?
VetSec’s programs that I have been able to use are the resume service helper and the job listings. I currently am in an IT position, but I continuously study and have been able to get my CompTIA Sec+, CYSA+, and Linux+ as well as some other certifications in a short time frame (not to mention those now losing value) but people in the community are nice and tell it like it is. There is no reason to sugar coat anything, and I appreciate that from the community because I need honest feedback for life decisions.
How has the VetSec community impacted you personally and professionally?
I am able to see job applications and connect with people who know someone or can help with getting hired for these positions. It has pushed me to continue to pursue and push to change for the continually changing market.
Where are you currently in your cybersecurity career, and how did VetSec contribute to your success?
I currently am in a semi cyber role. Systems Analyst is not strictly cyber but cyber is encompassed in role. With Work from Home being limited right now it is even harder to get in but I do feel more confident VetSec would help in finding an in to the field.
Reflecting on your journey, how do you think your career and personal growth would have been different without VetSec? What are your future aspirations in the field of cybersecurity?
I feel I wouldn’t have the detailed resume guidance that cyber leaders are looking for and it would take longer to find a role.
What advice would you give to other veterans considering a career in cybersecurity and thinking about joining VetSec?
I would say that there is nothing bad about joining VetSec and that I would/have recommended it to others. It is good to be part of a community, however the career field has changed drastically and to some (a large number of people) you wont find cybersecurity jobs unless you are very familiar and have worked in IT/software before. There is a lot of gatekeeping.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience with VetSec or a message to the community?
I am nothing but appreciative of VetSec and hope it stays around. I appreciate the leaders as well who dedicate their time and care. Their sacrifice is another selfless act that goes unnoticed, as a lot of veterans already understand.