In recent years, interest in cybersecurity training for veterans has surged. Many veterans transitioning to civilian IT careers seeks resources – even free cybersecurity training for veterans – to build their skills. While these search terms and programs are often aimed at veterans themselves, Managed Service Providers (MSPs) have a unique opportunity to get involved. MSPs can play a helpful role in training veterans who move into IT roles by using Clip Training’s cybersecurity courses. While the platform isn’t built specifically for veterans, its content can help any new hire—including veterans—get up to speed on cybersecurity basics and awareness. This not only supports those who served but also delivers tangible benefits to MSPs and their clients. In this post, we’ll explore why focusing on veterans makes sense, how MSPs can use Clip Training to help clients hire and train veterans in cybersecurity, and the business benefits of doing so.
Why Focus on Veterans for Cybersecurity Roles?
The cybersecurity industry faces a well-documented skills shortage. For example, in the U.S. alone, there are over 457,000 open cybersecurity jobs waiting to be filled. Globally, the gap is estimated in the millions. At the same time, military veterans represent an underutilized talent pool with many transferable skills. Veterans are often disciplined, quick learners, and thrive under pressure, making them strong candidates for cybersecurity positions. Through their military service, they understand teamwork and mission focus, and they’ve developed problem-solving and critical-thinking skills under high-stress situations.
However, many veterans lack formal degrees or specific cybersecurity certifications, which can make it hard for them to land these jobs immediately. That’s where training becomes critical. “Many military veterans have skills that are transferable to cybersecurity — but may not have the necessary degrees for certain job descriptions.” In other words, veterans often just need a bit of structured training to translate their experience to cybersecurity roles. By focusing on veteran training, MSPs can help bridge this gap.
It’s also worth noting that hiring veterans can bring direct benefits to employers. Companies in the U.S. may receive financial incentives like the Work Opportunity Tax Credit for hiring veterans – up to $10,000 in federal tax credits per hired veteran. Beyond financial perks, veterans bring intangibles like loyalty, leadership, and a “no-fail mission” mindset that can greatly enhance a cybersecurity team’s effectiveness.
The MSP’s Role in Veteran Cybersecurity Training
How can MSPs support veteran cybersecurity training? As trusted IT service partners, MSPs are in a perfect position to assist their clients in recruiting and upskilling veteran talent. Here are several ways an MSP can lead the charge:
- Encourage Hiring of Veteran Talent: MSPs can advise clients on the advantages of bringing veterans into IT and security roles. Highlight that veterans bring unique strengths that align with key industry needs.
- Provide Cybersecurity Basics Training: Once a new hire joins—whether they’re a veteran or not—MSPs can use ClipTraining’s cybersecurity awareness courses to close any knowledge gaps in basic security practices.
- Offer Ongoing Security Awareness & Drills: Continuous training is essential. MSPs can utilize ClipTraining’s phishing simulation and testing modules to keep security awareness high.
- Integrate Policy and Compliance Education: Veterans may be unfamiliar with civilian cybersecurity policies. ClipTraining’s Compliance & Policy Management helps ensure they understand and adhere to necessary regulations.
- Measure Progress and Provide Feedback: MSPs should use ClipTraining’s tracking and reporting tools to monitor a veteran’s training journey and provide actionable feedback.
How ClipTraining Enables Veteran-Focused Cybersecurity Training
ClipTraining is an eLearning and employee enablement platform built with MSPs in mind. It includes features that help MSPs train new hires—regardless of background—in cybersecurity awareness and best practices. When MSPs use ClipTraining, they can reduce support tickets related to basic IT mistakes, meet client compliance needs faster, and show clear training progress to their clients—all without needing extra staff.
Key Features of ClipTraining for Veteran Training:
- Comprehensive Cybersecurity Course Library: Courses tailored to various skill levels, from cybersecurity fundamentals to advanced security concepts.
- Phishing Simulation and Testing: Hands-on training to help veterans recognize and avoid phishing scams.
- Policy Management and Compliance Tracking: Digital policy acknowledgment and quizzes to reinforce company security policies.
- Customized Learning Paths: Tailored training modules to match a veteran’s role and prior experience.
- Progress Tracking and Reporting: Real-time insights into training completion rates and knowledge retention.
- Easy Deployment and Scalability: A cloud-based solution that allows MSPs to roll out training to multiple clients effortlessly.
Building Goodwill and Skills: Benefits for MSPs and Clients
Offering a veteran-focused training initiative is not just a charitable gesture – it produces real benefits for MSP businesses and their client organizations:
- Goodwill and Brand Differentiation: Supporting veteran employment strengthens MSP-client relationships and enhances brand reputation.
- Improved Security Posture for Clients: Security-aware employees mean fewer breaches, reducing cybersecurity risks for MSP clients.
- Addressing the Skills Shortage: Veterans can quickly become valuable cybersecurity professionals with the right training.
- Stronger Client-MSP Partnerships: Providing training services makes MSPs indispensable to their clients.
- Support for Veteran Transitions: Helping veterans transition into cybersecurity careers is fulfilling and impactful.
Turn Veteran Talent Into Cybersecurity Strength for Your Clients
Turn Veteran Talent into Cybersecurity Strength for Your Clients
Veterans often have the right mindset for cybersecurity work—but they need proper training to get started. MSPs who support clients in hiring veterans can use Clip Training’s cybersecurity courses to close that gap. You’re not just helping veterans—you’re helping your clients build stronger teams and reduce risks.
If you’re an MSP looking to offer real value beyond support tickets, ClipTraining gives you the tools to do it. Reach out to see how our platform can fit into your client training stack. Book a demo now!
