The Army Reserve: serving with flexibility while loving my civilian career

When most people first meet me in my civilian cyber career, they’re surprised to learn I served in the Army in combat roles, shoulder to shoulder with United States Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, and Special Forces Green Berets. After they get to know me, I’m proud to say I’ve opened their eyes to the personal and professional value available by serving in the United States military while pursuing a non-military career.

For me, that mix was only possible in the Army Reserve.

I've had a long and fulfilling career in the military, serving in the National Guard, Active Duty, and currently in the Army Reserve. I have nearly 20 years of service and have held various positions in the Information Technology (IT), Electronic Warfare (EW), Cultural Support Team (CST), and Cybersecurity. Still today, I find myself utilizing both the combat and leadership skills I gained from my time in uniform to shape my civilian career as a cyber professional. If you haven’t considered this path and you are seeking a challenge or maybe not 100% satisfied with your career, then you owe it to yourself to consider joining the ranks of the Army Reserve.

I joined the Army Reserve because I was at a point where I needed more career flexibility than I had while on Active Duty or even the National Guard.

When I left AD, like many, I missed the powerful sense of community and camaraderie that we as Soldiers rarely find in civilian careers. But by staying in uniform part time, I still have my military family, plus various benefits including healthcare and education. Today, I have the freedom to further my professional interests. If you're looking to transition out of the military, joining the Army Reserve can be a great way to get your footing in the civilian world while staying close to the military identity that, if you’re like me, is a core part of who you will always be.

I’ve also found there is more flexibility with the Army Reserve than with other branches and components. We have roles where you can live pretty much anywhere in the world, have more Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) options, and travel for duty while balancing a civilian career. The on-the-job education you get in the Army surpasses most I’ve seen anywhere else. You gain soft skills such as leadership, public speaking, and overall command presence that isn't taught in the civilian sector (and especially in the cyber field, isn’t a natural tendency for many). Your service lets you expand your knowledge set in your chosen field while receiving financial, healthcare, and education benefits that supplement your civilian benefits.

It’s clear to me that my time in the military, serving in various roles and branches has enabled me to love my career in the civilian sector. The Army Reserve is an option everyone should consider as a way to balance service with flexible career progression. This wasn’t explained to me when I first joined the Army, so I hope my experience can help you if you’re looking for a career change and are exploring your options.

Give the Army Reserve a look. I think you’ll find there’s a lot more there for you than you think: https://rly.pt/3fGMDFy

Please reach out to me directly if you have any questions.