Cyber Apprenticeship Program

Thank you for your interest in the Department of War (DoW) Cyber Apprenticeship Program! We appreciate the incredible enthusiasm for the inaugural program pilot. Due to a high volume of inquiries in our program mailbox, individual response times may be delayed. The link to the USAJOBS apprenticeship job announcement will be posted here on the program webpage once the application opens. We expect applications to open no later than 30 June.

We are excited to launch the inaugural pilot of the Department of War’s (DoW) Cyber Apprenticeship Program!

The program, administered by the DoW Office of the Chief Information Officer (DoW CIO), is designed to address the growing demand for skilled cyber professionals within the Department. This 12-month program provides a paid, structured, progressive pathway for individuals seeking to launch or advance their careers in cyber.

Through a blend of asynchronous online learning, interactive labs, mentorship, and on-the-job training participants will gain practical skills in areas such as security operations, network defense, ethical hacking, and the application of artificial intelligence to cyber threat analysis. This equips the Department employees with industry-recognized certifications and practical experience, ready to contribute immediately.

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Positions Covered

The DoW Cyber Apprenticeship Program prepares participants for entry-level cyber positions within the Department aligned to the DoW 8140 which can include, but not limited to:

  • Cyber Defense Analyst (511)
  • Cyber Defense Infrastructure Support Specialist (521)
  • Cyber Defense Incident Responder (531)

Participation Benefits

Participation in the DoW Cyber Apprenticeship Program provides a diverse range of benefits, tailored to both individuals and organizational needs. The following section details these key advantages, emphasizing their mutual contribution:

For Individuals:

  • Earn While You Learn: Offers a paid learning experience.
  • Gain Real-World Experience: Gain hands-on practical application working alongside experienced professionals.
  • Receive Mentorship and Guidance: Work closely with experienced professionals who serve as mentors, providing guidance and support throughout the training process.
  • Earn Industry-Recognized Credentials: Graduate with a valuable certification.
  • Advance Your Cyber Career: Potential for full-time employment after graduation.

For DoW Organizations:

  • Fill Cyber Talent Gaps: Build a pipeline of skilled workers who are specifically trained to meet the organization's needs.
  • Increase Employee Retention: Apprentices are more likely to stay with the company after completing their apprenticeship, reducing employee turnover.
  • Increased Productivity: Apprentices are developed specifically for each work role, enabling faster ramp-up time and increased job readiness compared to traditional hires.
  • Customized Training Programs: Organizations can tailor apprenticeship programs to meet their specific training needs and ensure that apprentices are learning the skills that are most relevant to their organization.
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Ideal Candidates & Eligibility Requirements

Candidates must be:

  • Over 18 years of age
  • A United States citizen
  • Able to obtain and maintain a government security clearance

The following are the characteristics of a successful apprentice in the DoW Cyber Apprenticeship Program:

  • Exhibit a strong work ethic
  • Eager to learn and grow
  • Willingness to be mobile and flexible to a variety of work experiences
  • Demonstrate analytical and problem-solving capabilities
  • Aptitude to learn new and complex material quickly
  • Ability to commit to work within the DoW
 

Participation Process

Ready to participate in the DoW Cyber Apprenticeship Program? The following instructions outline the key steps in the process:

  1. Participating DoW agencies announces apprenticeship opportunities on USAJobs
  2. Prospective participants apply through the published USAJobs announcement
  3. Selected participants will sign an agreement that outlines program expectations and cyber training pathway with appropriate stakeholders
  4. Selected participants will participate in the 12-month DoW Cyber Apprenticeship Program featuring comprehensive training, including industry certification, assessments, mentorship, and on-the-job experience
  5. Following program completion, participants will have the opportunity to advance their career in cyber

Available Opportunities

Don’t miss your opportunity! – join our mailing list by emailing osd.mc-alex.dod-cio.mbx.cyber-rap@mail.mil and be the first to know when applications open in June 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Expand List item 4390Collapse List item 4390  Why should I participate?

The DoW Cyber Apprenticeship offers a paid, hands-on experience, immersing you in real-world cyber operations that directly impact the nation's security. This program is engineered for your success, pairing you with a one-on-one mentor and providing a structured curriculum that culminates in a nationally recognized certification. You won't just build skills; you'll build a career, emerging with the experience and credentials needed to become a leader in the cyber workforce.

Expand List item 4386Collapse List item 4386  What law governs the DoW Cyber Apprenticeship Program?

This program is in alignment with the National Apprenticeship Act (50 Stat. 664; 29 U.S.C. 50).

Expand List item 4393Collapse List item 4393  What level of cybersecurity experience/knowledge do apprentices typically have when they enter the program?

No prior experience is required! This program provides tailored training and hands-on experience, equipping you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed.

Expand List item 4385Collapse List item 4385  Where does the program take place?

Learn from anywhere with our online training modules. On-the-job training experiences are in-person and tailored to each opportunity, offering unique practical experiences. See the individual position descriptions for specifics.

Expand List item 4388Collapse List item 4388  What is the process to obtain a security clearance?

You can expect to complete a detailed electronic questionnaire, including information about your citizenship, residences, and employment history as part of the security clearance process. Providing this information is voluntary, but withholding it may affect your eligibility. Fingerprints might also be required to complete the form. A thorough background investigation will follow, involving reviews of your finances and criminal record, as well as interviews with references and potentially with you. This investigation is designed to verify your information and assess your character and conduct. For more information, please visit: https://www.dcsa.mil/Personnel-Vetting/Background-Investigations-for-Applicants/Investigations-Clearance-Process/

Expand List item 4394Collapse List item 4394  What if I am not able to complete the program?

To ensure your success, you will be matched with two dedicated mentors who will guide and support you through both the technical and on-the-job training phases of the program. However, if you are unable to finish the program, you will be required to pay back the government for the training you received. This obligation may be waived under specific circumstances, such as personal or family illness, or severe financial hardship, in accordance with 5 U.S. Code § 4108(c).

Expand List item 4391Collapse List item 4391  How can I stand out as an applicant?

Since no experience is required, agencies will focus on qualities that show readiness to learn. Curiosity, reliability, communication, problem solving, and a willingness to ask questions often matter more than existing technical knowledge.

Expand List item 4389Collapse List item 4389  How can I prepare before applications open?

We recommend:

Creating a USAJOBS account at https://www.usajobs.gov so you can apply as soon as the announcement goes live. Preparing a federal style resume (maximum two pages).

Resume guidance: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/hiring-information/merit-hiring-plan-resources/applicant-guidance-on-the-two-page-resume-limit

Expand List item 4396Collapse List item 4396  Can I work another job at the same time?

No. The program requires a full time, 40 hour workweek commitment. A Secondary job may be obtained outside of the work duty hours.

Expand List item 4384Collapse List item 4384  Can I join if I already have cyber experience?

Yes, but the program is designed for individuals new to the field. Those with significant experience may find some content introductory. We encourage applicants to consider their goals and whether they prefer building foundational skills or pursuing more advanced roles.

Expand List item 4395Collapse List item 4395  How much does the opportunity pay?

These positions are entry-level. Salary information will be included in the USAJOBS posting when applications open.

Expand List item 4392Collapse List item 4392  How can I be added to the mailing list?

Our team is currently working to add everyone who has expressed interest to our mailing list. Because we are receiving a high volume of messages, this process is taking some additional time. In the meantime, you can stay informed by regularly checking our website. All updates will be posted there as soon as they become available.

Questions?

For program-related questions, please contact osd.mc-alex.dod-cio.mbx.cyber-rap@mail.mil.