Possibility of breaking into InfoSec

I've seen a lot of people on here working in infosec for govnt agencies. I was just curious on how that journey and exp was for many of you. Because, it seems majority of yall seem to have military exp and with it proper clearance levels. Is that something realistically obtainable for citizens? if so are there any post or websites someone may be so nice as to share. Or am I better off joining army reserves?

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Comments

ChickenNuggetz

You don't need to join the military or work for a government agency to get a start in Info Sec. There are plenty of private companies that do info sec and many, many other private companies that have a need for info sec professionals internally.

Info Sec is one of those sub-sects of IT that really requires established experience within IT before moving into a more security-centric role. Systems and Network administrations are some of the best paths to go because you'll pick up valuable skill sets and experience along the way.

If you want to go the military or government way, you'd need to get a job with a contractor (private company that does work for the government) that has a project that requires clearance. There is no way to get clearance on your own.

BlackBeret

I would say not to join the Army reserves for sole purpose of expanding your civilian career. Plenty do, but it's not a great idea if you don't want to be there and don't want to train and deploy. Now if you're considering doing it anyway and want to get in to infosec in the process, Army reserve as a 35Q or 25D will get you a lot of training fast, but you'll still lack the experience. Going full time with the Army for 3-4 years in those MOS's will get you the training, experience, certifications, and clearance in the field.

If you really want to pursue that route feel free to ask more questions, but again there are other ways outside of the military.

jrel209

Thank you two for the responses, and ya I definitely do not want to join the military, too old for that lol.

docrice

I wrote about my experience a month ago:

http://www.techexams.net/forums/general-certification/108744-unrealistic-job-posting-security-engineer-iii-active-directory.html#post920725

jrel209

docrice wrote: »

I wrote about my experience a month ago:

http://www.techexams.net/forums/general-certification/108744-unrealistic-job-posting-security-engineer-iii-active-directory.html#post920725

Thank you, and honestly your post just makes me want to dive into it more. I want something difficult and dynamic or project management. Basically, something where the days are challenging, new, and constantly evolving. I'll do what I can to find opportunities to fit that.

GForce75

Networking certain govt/military personnel can also help... but you will need the certs. Military experience with the clearance is what has paid for many of the certifications.