What are some of the most beneficial certifications to get before transitioning out of the military?

2015-05-20T13:51:03-04:00

Response by SPC Nate Lamphier made May 20 at 2015 1:55 PM

2015-05-20T13:55:51-04:00

I know this isn't what you are looking for or really helpful, but get as many as you can...especially if there are some that relate to the field in which you want to enter. The more "qualification" material you can place on a resume the better.

Response by SSG Derek Scheller made May 20 at 2015 1:55 PM

2015-05-20T13:55:16-04:00

It really depends on what route you want to go upon leaving the military. If you are looking for management, then a PMP is something to strive for. However, if you are going IT/Cyber then starting with the basic CompTIA certs like Net+, Sec+, and A+ are a start. If you already have an IT background and the certs then you have to decide what route in IT you want to go. CISSP is a must for Cybersecurity Management, whereas Cisco certifications, CEH, CPT, among others are great for networking or cybersecurity hands on.

Response by Sgt Jerami Ballard made May 20 at 2015 2:18 PM

2015-05-20T14:18:40-04:00

So far for me, it's been the Lean Sigma Six, OSHA trainings, and Security clearance. Regardless of whether or not you have a degree, these are powerful tools to potential employers and can even supersede an educational requirement in some jobs as they are very expensive both financially and in terms of time. I've had a couple of employers say that my SS and Safety certs were more attractive than my degree and IT certs. Everyone thinks about getting career specific training but the general more business-centric stuff tends to make a better impression from what I've seen and heard from employers.

Response by MAJ Wiley Winter made Jul 27 at 2018 7:39 AM

2018-07-27T07:39:00-04:00

Start with A+ and Network+ then your vendor spcific stuff, i.e. Microsoft, Cisco, Etc.
It is very important to get a good foundation because, with the Cisco intro classes, they jump in assuming you can count in binary!