Where can I begin to find information about joining the Reserves or Guard for offensive cyber positions?

Retv Val — Mon, 03 Dec 2018 00:03:08 -0500

I'm interested in offensive cyber positions (RE and CNO style) in the reserves/guard. I have several years experience as a contractor and I'm currently a cleared and polyed AF civilian. I will be moving to MD shortly and will return to contracting. Where to begin?

Is their a USCYBERCOM unit I could try and join? Officer or enlisted? Is USCYBERCOM still basically AF? Do units work with CMTs?

Response by SGT Mark Estes made Dec 3 at 2018 12:42 AM

SGT Mark Estes — Mon, 03 Dec 2018 00:42:37 -0500

You might want to talk to a recruiter and ask them about it. Probably your best starting point. They should be able to find out what units are out there. Good luck!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2018 7:44 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 03 Dec 2018 07:44:03 -0500

The Army just stood up a cyber command with the MOSs 17C and 25D. They are also looking for cyber officers, if you have a bachelor degree or higher. I believe a recent change added cyber to the list of jobs the Army allows direct commissions in.
I don't know much more about it, or even the difference between the two MOSs. I can tell you that they may work with other government agencies and special mission units.
You can look on the Army cyber warfare web page for more information.

Response by Maj Kevin "Mac" McLaughlin made Dec 3 at 2018 8:33 AM

Maj Kevin "Mac" McLaughlin — Mon, 03 Dec 2018 08:33:02 -0500

I'm unfamiliar with the Reserves/Guard process, but like the active duty, I believe you still need to enter into your AFSC first, undergo the training, demonstrate your capability, and then request one of those positions.

Honestly, I wish more of the highly talented cyber ops personnel would take on the larger challenge of Defensive cyber. Having been on both sides, I can say that while attack is fun and "sexy", the true challenge is defense. If you help solve those problems, you will be able to write your ticket in cyber.