In his presentation at ClearanceJobs Connect West, Art Zeile, CEO of DHI Group Inc. (parent company to ClearanceJobs and Dice), broke down the trends shaping the tech hiring landscape in 2025. The biggest takeaway? Tech is transforming—but not collapsing.
Zeile highlighted the growing integration of AI and machine learning across the defense and intelligence sectors. With the rapid pace of technological advancements, Zeile emphasized how AI is revolutionizing recruitment, enabling companies to better identify qualified candidates and enhance efficiency in the hiring process. Yet, he noted that despite AI’s potential, human expertise remains irreplaceable when it comes to building long-term relationships and vetting talent for national security roles.
One of the key challenges Zeile pointed out is the fierce competition for cleared professionals. With companies not just competing against other defense contractors but also tech giants from Silicon Valley, attracting top talent requires a more strategic approach. Zeile stressed that companies must differentiate themselves by offering robust professional development programs and a supportive work culture, particularly as the next generation of workers prioritize flexibility and career growth.
The shift towards cloud technology is another major factor driving demand for skilled professionals. As defense and intelligence agencies modernize their infrastructure, the need for cloud experts, cybersecurity specialists, and data scientists continues to grow. Zeile spoke about the increasing number of opportunities in the cleared cloud space, where talent needs to bridge the gap between technical knowledge and national security requirements.
As the defense industry leans more into tech innovations, Zeile emphasized the importance of upskilling and internal mobility within organizations. Building a scalable workforce involves not just hiring the right candidates, but ensuring that employees can evolve with the fast-paced advancements in technology.
Looking ahead, Zeile’s message was clear: the success of national security programs will depend on strategic talent acquisition, the ability to adapt to new technologies, and fostering an inclusive, growth-oriented environment for professionals in the cleared space. Companies that can combine cutting-edge technology with strong human connections will likely emerge as leaders in this highly competitive market.
