Switching Fields - Looking for Advice

Hi everybody,
I genuinely hope you all are doing well. This seems like a nice community, and I'm hoping for a bit of help / guidance. I'm brand new here - just found this place.
A little about me & where I'm coming from:
I was laid off from my job in April, where I was working as a data architect. I don't have a degree, but do have a strong aptitude for computer systems, databases, data warehousing, cleansing, analytics, etc. In July, I got a new job - not as high-level as my previous. Problem is, I am quite bored with this line of work. I want to move into cybersecurity -- for a few reasons:
- I love playing devil's advocate
- I love figuring out how systems work (and challenging those systems)
- I love being challenged with new problems
I don't have any certifications, other than a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt that I got from Udemy. I've also passed the Python & Java LinkedIn assessments, and am enrolled in SNHU's cybersecurity degree plan (as of June of this year). I'm enjoying it, and currently earning a 4.0. If I keep my pace, I should graduate by August / September of next year. I live in a major military hub, and am open to positions requiring a security clearance. I used to have one, but it's been expired for a long time. I see jobs that say that you need to already have a clearance, but none that are willing to pay for it.
Any advice that you all can offer me would be appreciated so much. One stipulation is that I can't afford to not be paid to work -- I have a family to feed, and I'm the main breadwinner.
If there is anything else that I can answer, I'm happy to do that.
Thanks so much.
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Comments
You could also be a lawyer ....
Looking for a clearance ? Join the National Guard or Reserves of anyone who will take you.
In regard to certs - GIAC the way to go or Offensive Security for red teaming etc. I dont think the other certs for your interest cut it.
Good point made by TechGromit above in the sense that salaries for data architects is pretty good, so will taking the lower salary be realistic?
I know the likes of Amazon recruit heavily for people with a military background - may be worthwhile to explore as you can do the types of work that interest you too.
Considering that internships are usually for kids just out of college, both GSEC and GCIH are overkill for an intern. Have you had any entry-level interviewing opportunities with your Director-level experience on your resume? That might be off-putting to a hiring manager who wants help-desk-quality kids that just do as they are told. I'm not saying that a 40-something duffer can't find entry-level work, but you better be applying to every such position that you can find.
Forum Admin at www.techexams.net
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You don't have to do the training, but it is tough without it. As mentioned my team member challenged the exam, and passed.
"Brain does not meet certification requirements, please install more certifications" Me
Currently Studying: Cyber Security masters and ISC2 CCSP.
Security blog; http://security.morganstorey.com