How the cyber operations and resilience program celebrates veterans with hope and opportunity

In November, it’s important to reflect on the sacrifices made by military members, and Veterans Day should serve as a reminder of the immeasurable losses many of them endured. According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), an average of 17.5 veterans died by suicide daily in 2021. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of veterans are grappling with mental health challenges, and approximately 35,000 veterans were homeless in 2023. 

Sacrifice is not just about the moments of danger or the ultimate act of laying down one’s life for another; it is about the lasting impact on one’s mind, relationships and sense of self. For many, life can be extremely challenging after experiencing combat. However, there is hope and a future for veterans willing to take the first step to improve their quality of life. 

Boise State’s cyber operations and resilience program understands the difficult hump for veterans to take that first step. Because of this, the program includes various resources for veterans looking to return to school and transition to a career in civilian life.

Boise State veteran resources 

Boise State offers numerous resources to support veterans in academics and career development:

• Work-study from the university allows veterans to use VA benefits to work on campus in positions to help them financially and transition to a civilian career. 
• Veteran Upward Bound assists veterans in transitioning to college by providing academic and financial guidance. 
• The Veterans Writing Group creates a community where veterans can enhance their writing skills. 
• Veteran Career Services provides tailored job search and resume assistance.
• VetSuccess offers vocational and readjustment support, empowering veterans in their academic and personal growth. 
• University Health Services offers counseling services to support veterans experiencing mental health problems. 

Furthermore, veterans who have a disability rating of 10% or greater from the Department of Veterans Affairs will be able to tap into an additional resource like the Veterans Readiness and Employment (VRE) program that also provides invaluable assistance to veterans. 

Clark reflected, “Lots of veterans talk about the mental aspect in regard to school and the common advice I hear is to keep going, keep your head up, don’t give up, it is not as hard as it looks, stay the course and it will pay off in the end.” 

He added another positive note, saying, “Enduring the stress I experienced in the military during some chaotic situations has made me more resilient in this field of work which has made my duties more manageable.”

Clark also mentioned the Boise State Education Center (EAC) is a great resource, as he is a veteran with disabilities. The Center was able to assist him with accommodations for his classes. He said, “This resource that I am so grateful for, levels the playing field and provides me a chance to succeed.”

Progress after the hump 

With these resources, the hope is to see veterans overcome their challenges when transitioning to civilian life after combat. Once veterans establish a foothold in counseling and build a foundation of support amongst peers and counselors, they can begin to pursue a purpose-driven lifestyle once again. 

In the cyber operations and resilience program, several veterans have enrolled, graduated and either started their cybersecurity journey or continued their education. These students utilized resources like the Post-9/11 GI Bill and Pell Grants to help reach this achievement. 

Finally, Boise State has a Veteran Services Center that provides steps on how to apply for admission, military benefits, Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA), scholarships and an area to submit your declaration each semester. 

Cyber operations and resilience program

Veterans should consider Boise State’s online cyber operations and resilience program because it provides a unique opportunity to transition military skills into a high-demand field. Through the VRE program, Clark was able to take skills and interests assessments which identified his strong suitability and passion for security roles. 

The program focuses on cybersecurity concepts, such as threat analysis, network defense and incident response, making it an excellent match for Clark and other veterans with strengths in critical thinking, adaptability and resilience developed during military service. For Clark, digital forensics, defensive operations and analyzing data are what interests him most about the program and cybersecurity. However, he is not restricting himself to specific roles at this point. 

Clark graduates from the cyber operations and resilience program soon and said he would be satisfied with earning an entry-level cyber security analyst position to begin building the skills needed for more advanced positions in cybersecurity. 

Additionally, the program offers hands-on learning in the latest technologies, preparing veterans for careers where they can continue to serve and protect, this time in the digital realm. Through these studies, veterans can gain certifications and skills recognized across the industry. 

Some of these leading technology courses include Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Cybersecurity and graduate-level certificates include analyst and threat intelligence, resilience engineering, and governance policy administration. Finally, this program prioritizes open communication with professors and peers, fostering a strong support network that makes learning fun and engaging.

Taking the jump in cybersecurity 

Cybersecurity offers a promising path for those ready to make the leap. The online cyber operations and resilience program is an excellent option as it welcomes career changers, such as military veterans, without requiring prior experience, although many of the soft skills and critical skills provided in the military transition well into cybersecurity. 

Clark mentioned that the program material is relevant, the instructors are awesome, he enjoys the accountability and explained, “What you get out of this is what you put into it.”  

A final thank you

It’s important to recognize that many people genuinely care about the health and success of veterans because they understand the cost of what has been freely given. The sacrifices veterans have made for their respective countries, their families and their friends are immeasurable. The freedoms enjoyed today exist because of those willing to lay down their lives for the well-being of others. 

It does not need to be Veterans Day to remember this and maintain a deep sense of compassion and thankfulness to those who have served. The program also extends its gratitude to former Marine Chris Clark for his unwavering commitment, service to his country, and invaluable contributions to the cyber operations and resilience program.

Veteran Mental and Financial Services

1. Vet Centers
2. Post-9/11 GI Bill
3. Federal Pell Grant Program
4. Veterans Readiness and Employment

Boise State University Veteran Resources 

1. Work Study Resources
2. Veterans Upward Bound
3. Veterans Writing Group
4. Veterans Career Services
5. VetSuccess
6. General Military and Veterans Services

Learn more about the cyber operations and resilience program

Boise State’s cyber operations and resilience program can open doors to new opportunities and a brighter future — and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring if an online program is right for you or need help transferring credits, connecting with a student success coach is the perfect first step. 

Ready to learn more? Attend one of our online information sessions or contact a student success coach today.

About the author

Forland’s background spans combat experience during military service as an 11-B Infantryman, civilian firefighting, corrections, retail management and leadership roles in each, all of which have deepened his understanding of compassion and care for others. He finds his greatest joy in witnessing others rise above life’s challenges to achieve their goals.