The cybersecurity talent gap in the U.S. is nothing short of alarming, with an estimated 750,000 positions waiting to be filled. As agencies and contractors struggle with security clearance backlogs, a solution may lie in one of the country’s most valuable assets: its military veterans. Many veterans, particularly those who have served in roles requiring security clearance, are uniquely qualified to step into these high-demand cybersecurity positions. But for companies to harness this talent, they must know how to recruit, support, and help veterans transition into civilian roles.
Fairfax County, VA is leading the way in veteran recruitment and retention. Home to 65,000 veterans and thousands more across the Northern Virginia region, it’s a hub for cybersecurity, defense, and national security companies. There’s a clear demand for security-cleared talent. The county’s success in attracting and supporting a robust veteran community is helping bridge the talent gap in cybersecurity.
To understand how companies can leverage the veteran workforce, we spoke with Jeff Carson, a military veteran who now serves as a recruiter at Peraton. Having spent over 20 years in the Army, including time in the D.C. metro area, Jeff has a unique perspective on how businesses can best support veterans during their transition to civilian life.
Transitioning from Military to Civilian: It’s All About Support
Jeff’s own transition from military service to a civilian career wasn’t without its challenges. “The hardest part is finding a company that understands your skills and experience, even when they don’t fit into a neat little box,” he explains. Through his work at Peraton, he’s committed to helping other veterans navigate this transition.
His advice for companies looking to recruit veterans? It’s about providing support at every stage of the process. “Veterans need resources during the transition, whether it’s resume writing or understanding how their skills align with civilian roles,” says Jeff. Peraton, for example, hosts job fairs and provides information sessions as part of their outreach efforts. “These fairs are crucial,” he adds, “because they help veterans refine their elevator pitch and connect directly with recruiters.”
It’s About Building Relationships, Not Transactions
One of the key points Jeff emphasizes is that veteran recruiting isn’t about quick hires or transactional relationships. “It’s not about just filling a position,” he says. “It’s about understanding the veteran’s journey, what they bring to the table, and what they want to do moving forward.” He believes that helping veterans, even when a hire isn’t immediately possible, is what defines a truly veteran-friendly company. “I’ll help you, even if I can’t hire you,” he adds. “That’s what veteran-friendly means.”
Navigating Pay and Benefits: Finding the Right Fit
Jeff also speaks to the importance of fair compensation. “Veterans sometimes undercut themselves when it comes to salary,” he says. “If they lowball their own rate, I’ll tell them, ‘No, you’re worth more than that.’” This approach ensures that veterans are valued at their true worth, rather than settling for less. Jeff’s approach aligns with the mission of Peraton, which values veterans and works hard to match them with the right role, ensuring long-term success for both the employee and the company.
Veterans: A Key to Cybersecurity’s Future
As the demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to soar, veterans offer a solution that’s already in place. For veterans who have completed their service, maintaining security clearance is crucial in order to remain competitive in the workforce. As Jeff explains, “Once a security clearance lapses, it’s like starting over, but being a reservist can help maintain that valuable ticket into the workforce.”
With the right support, companies can tap into this underutilized talent pool. Veterans like Jeff are living proof of the immense potential that comes from recruiting from the military community. In Fairfax County, the veteran workforce is not only making strides in cybersecurity but is leading the way in closing the talent gap. By connecting with veterans early, offering support throughout the hiring process, and ensuring they’re compensated fairly, companies can make a lasting impact in securing the country’s digital future.
