At Connect West 2026, DHI Group CEO Art Zeile delivered a data-driven look at how defense spending, technology adoption, and workforce sentiment are reshaping the hiring landscape.
Zeile began by highlighting a major shift in defense budgets. While defense spending has historically grown at a modest pace, recent increases have been far more aggressive. Large-scale initiatives—such as the Golden Dome missile defense program—represent net-new technology investment and are accelerating demand for advanced software, AI, and space-related skills. These programs are also contributing to the rise of new defense technology primes and non-traditional contractors.
Using ClearanceJobs data, Zeile showed that defense tech hiring remains heavily concentrated in the DMV region, while additional hubs—such as San Antonio, Colorado Springs, San Diego, and El Segundo—continue to grow. Salaries are steadily increasing, with the average cleared tech role now around $130,000 and defense recruiter pay seeing notable year-over-year growth.
Turning to Dice data, Zeile addressed one of the most pressing questions in tech today: the impact of AI on jobs. Despite widespread concern, long-term data shows that technology innovations historically expand—not eliminate—the workforce. While hiring has been cautious over the past year, early indicators suggest renewed momentum, particularly for senior-level talent.
However, candidate sentiment remains complex. A large majority of tech professionals are open to changing jobs, yet fewer feel confident about securing the right role. Burnout is rising, and many candidates report frustration with “ghost jobs” and opaque hiring processes—especially those involving AI.
Zeile’s takeaway for recruiters was clear: focus on mission, skills growth, and transparency. In an uncertain market, trust and opportunity matter more than ever.
