Security Clearance with I.T Degree and Certifications

So, I have a Secret Security Clearance that I obtained while in the military. I've been wondering, would a Information Technology degree, Cisco certs and the Security Clearance set me up for a successful career in I.T?

Find more posts tagged with

Save $250 on 2025 certification boot camps from Infosec!

Book now with code EOY2025

Button

Comments

alias454

It won't hurt but of course the standard hard work and perseverance come into play too.

Sylice

Of course it does. That's with everything.

BlackBeret

It definitely helps if it isn't expired. Of course that's if you're in an area where there are a lot of gov jobs. A secret clearance is good for 10 years if I remember correctly, but I've been told it only stays good for two years if it's not being held by an agency/company for something. So 10 years after your last review, or 2 years after you were discharged, whichever is less.

RogueEnigma

Having a clearance definitely opens more doors if you are living in an area with a strong military presence. It also creates the possibility of relocation if you want to go to another state or country for a few years. Clearances cost the potential company money and if you already have one, that company does not have to make that initial investment, which slightly tips the scales in your favor. It also proves to the company that you are "clearable."

Of course, the higher level the clearance the better, Secret is good for 10 years from being read on. If you are no longer with the employer, the clearance goes from "active" to "current". Top Secret is 5 years with the same scenario. Top Secret SCI/SAP is two years (you retain TS but lose the SCI/SAP after two years). The higher the clearance, the easier it is to find a job. The certs, especially 8570 related, are the proverbial icing on the cake. All you really need is Security+ to get started, but it is a requirement for most DoD positions, as you know.

The Cisco certs will put you ahead of the pack as it will show the hiring manager (or at least the HR person) that you are knowledgeable enough to pass the exam. I would also look into anything Linux related for basic command line use.

MrAgent

If you are not actively using your clearance, then it will expire after two years regardless of what level it is.
TS: You have to renew every five years.
S: You renew every 10 years.

joelsfood

Choose where you want to work, see who has the contracts there, apply.

Northrup, Lockheed, ITT/Excelis, Boeing, etc. A clearance definitely helps in IT if the IT you're working in is still government related. Even people who aren't directly on contracts can need clearances if they touch those systems. IE, we have a contract with DoL, which I wasn't actually on, but since I might touch their systems, had to keep up with their clearance. Same thing can apply with DoD clearances.

jerseyIT92

Hard work and experience is the key. Certs and a degree don't hurt either.