It’s Data Privacy Week, an international effort to empower individuals and businesses to respect privacy, safeguard data, and enable trust. Syracuse University’s D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) is highlighting Data Privacy Week by promoting the no-cost Google Cybersecurity Certificate, available through its Onward to Opportunity (O2O) career training program.
What Is the O2O Program?
IVMF’s O2O program combines an industry-validated curriculum, strong partnerships, and comprehensive career coaching to prepare veterans and military spouses for their next career. Through a partnership with Google, IVMF offers the Google Cybersecurity Certificate at no cost to veterans and military spouses. Interested participants can enroll in O2O through the IVMF website.
Why Cybersecurity?
IVMF’s Program Manager, Bryan Radliff, explains why this program is an excellent opportunity for the military community:
“Veterans and military spouses are well-suited for this career field, which addresses threats and protects Americans’ data. Many cybersecurity jobs are remote, making them especially adaptable for military spouses who move frequently and balance careers with their partners’ military service. Many veterans have IT and cyber experience from their military service that translates well to the civilian sector, and credentials like this make them more competitive in the job market.”
Is Cybersecurity Still a Good Career Choice in the Age of AI?
With growing conversations around AI and automation, some may wonder if cybersecurity is still a strong career choice. Radliff provides insight:
“Some experts estimate there’s a cyberattack every 39 seconds. Cybersecurity protects personal data and ensures critical infrastructure—like hospitals, government, communications systems, electricity, and water supplies—remains operational. Attackers have targeted all of these industries. Even with AI advancements, human monitoring and decision-making remain essential for protecting our digital infrastructure.”
Benefits of the Google Cybersecurity Certificate Program
This program offers several key benefits:
✅ Self-Paced Learning – Complete the coursework on your own schedule.
✅ No Experience Required – Open to all skill levels.
✅ No Cost – Free for veterans and military spouses.
✅ No Military Benefits Needed – You don’t need to use your GI Bill or other benefits.
✅ Monthly Cohorts – New sessions start each month.
✅ Career Resources – Includes access to job support and coaching.
✅ Exam Discount – Participants receive a discount exam voucher code for the CompTIA Security+ Exam.
Success Story: From Military Service to Cybersecurity
Sgt. Dillon Hamil, U.S. Army, shares how the program helped him transition into the civilian workforce:
“Participating in the IVMF Onward to Opportunity program provided me access to certificate training, such as the Google Cybersecurity Certificate, which allowed me to feel more confident in transitioning into the civilian sector. It also provided me with career coaching and professional development, which was great for my resume.”
A Career Path That Works for Veterans and Military Spouses
Many veterans want to enter the workforce immediately after leaving the military. Likewise, many military spouses seek high-paying, remote jobs that provide stability and flexibility. Cybersecurity offers opportunities for both, and earning a Google Cybersecurity Certificate for free is a great way to jump-start a new career.
Get Started Today
Want to learn more about O2O? Visit the IVMF website to explore the program and take the next step in your cybersecurity career.
