Turn your military experience into a paid, federal, cybersecurity career

You have discipline, know how to work under pressure and can pay attention to detail. Now, consider putting your skills to work defending the VA networks that serve millions of Veterans.

Apply for and join VA’s Cybersecurity Apprenticeship Program for Veterans. Check out this short video to learn more. See recent graduates and hear directly from VA leaders about why they’re committed to training Veterans in cybersecurity.

The inaugural class of the Cybersecurity Apprenticeship Program for Veterans (CAPV) completed its program in August 2026. VA is now preparing to open its next class in fiscal year 2027 (FY27), giving more Veterans a paid, structured path into cybersecurity.

The program provides honorably discharged United States Veterans who have a technical background with a structured pathway to a career in federal cybersecurity. This is a paid, 2.5-year Department of Labor-registered apprenticeship that prepares participants for roles as Cyber Defense Analysts.

Why this matters to you

Federal networks face constant threats. VA’s apprenticeship program turns your military discipline and mission focus into real cybersecurity skills. You don’t need a cybersecurity background to apply.

What makes this program different

This isn’t classroom theory. You train hands-on at the VA Cybersecurity Operations Center in Martinsburg, West Virginia, working alongside experienced professionals. You rotate through real teams, including reporting, technical services, incident response, vulnerability scanning and threat intelligence. 

One graduate compared it to visiting nine islands on a cruise. You see how each part of the mission works before you find where you fit best. 

You won’t sit on the sidelines. Program leaders assign you real tasks and treat you as a full team member from day one. Cybersecurity leaders say mentoring apprentices has re-energized even their most experienced staff and sharpened the whole team’s performance. 

What you get

• A paid 2.5-year apprenticeship, starting at the GS-9 level
• In-person training and mentorship in Martinsburg, West Virginia
• Two and a half years of structured training, including hands-on assignments, formal technical instruction, one-on-one mentoring and skills assessments 
• Preparation for a career as a Cyber Defense Analyst
• Career progression from GS-9 to GS-11 to GS-12 upon successful completion 

Who can apply

You must be an honorably discharged United States Veteran and have served in a technical occupational series. VA does not require a cybersecurity background. You train from the ground up. The program is highly competitive and has limited space available.

How to get started

Application information for the FY27 class is available on Careers in IT. The new program is scheduled to start in January 2027.

Your service gave you the foundation. VA’s cyber apprenticeship gives you a new mission.

Learn more about career opportunities with VA’s Office of Information and Technology: Careers in IT.