Is Your Military Career Field a Pathway Into an Artificial Intelligence Job?
The Department of Defense’s strategic focus on artificial intelligence has created a sometimes overlooked source of talent for the civilian tech sector. Service members in the right career fields can gain hands-on experience with AI and its core principles, preparing them for high-demand careers upon transitioning to the private sector.
According to California Miramar University (CMU), AI careers have certain key features or “ingredients”.
These may include machine learning algorithms that enable machines to learn from data, deep learning neural networks that process complex patterns in data, and natural language processing tools that help computers better understand. human language.
The CMU official site notes, “The AI job market is expanding at an exponential rate, and more AI-related jobs are being posted on job sites than ever before. Companies are investing heavily in AI solutions to stay competitive, creating a surge in demand.” It also notes that AI jobs are some of the “highest-paying in the tech industry.”
>Find the right job for you –– GET STARTED TODAY!
In-Demand AI Skills
If you are planning a transition from your military career into a civilian AI job, there are skills to sharpen along the way. They include:
- Cloud computing
- Programming
- Data visualization
- Data analysis
- Big data management
Military Intelligence Work as a Foundation for a Career in AI
Military intelligence is a primary incubator for AI talent. The work of an Army Signals Intelligence Analyst or a Navy Cryptologic Technician, for example, involves analyzing electronic datasets to find critical patterns.
This process is related to the work of a civilian data scientist or machine learning engineer who builds models to find insights in big data.
Army Geospatial Intelligence Imagery Analysts use advanced tools, which may be AI-assisted, to review satellite and aerial imagery for objects and changes. This experience in applied computer vision is directly transferable to civilian industries, from agriculture technology to disaster response.
Air Force Signals Intelligence Analysts operate sophisticated equipment to exploit foreign communications and electronic signals.
The Marine Corps’ entire Occupational Field 26 is dedicated to Signals Intelligence and Electronic Warfare, with roles such as the Communications Intelligence Operator and the Cryptologic Cyberspace Analyst performing functions that are foundational to AI, including data collection and analysis.
>Find the right job for you –– GET STARTED TODAY!
Does Cybersecurity Experience in the Military Translate to the AI Industry?
Army Cyber Operations Specialists (and their counterparts in the Air Force and Navy) use AI-driven systems to detect network intrusions and analyze malware. More importantly, they operate in an adversarial environment, giving them insight into how AI models can be deceived or attacked.
This prepares them for senior roles in AI security, a growing concern for companies deploying their intelligent systems.
Military Jobs Preparing Service Members for Careers in Robotics, Drones, and Autonomous Systems
Army Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operators manage the flight, sensor, and data-link operations for drones, which are essentially flying robotic platforms. The Navy’s creation of the Robotics Warfare (RW) specialist rating in 2024 institutionalizes expertise in AI, machine learning, and autonomous systems control.
The Air Force operates drones for surveillance and other uses, and the use of these platforms is expected to expand in the future. Experience in this career field could lead to a civilian job in artificial intelligence.
Do Non-Technical Roles Offer Ways Into the AI Field?
All systems require administrators and support staff, and these teams need supervision and training. Even command and control roles provide a strong foundation. A Navy Operations Specialist, for example, works in a ship’s combat information center, reviewing data from numerous sensors into a coherent tactical picture for commanders.
This experience enables them to effectively understand the user interface and human-in-the-loop requirements for complex AI-powered decision support systems. This experience may prepare veterans for roles as civilian AI product managers or systems engineers who must bridge the gap between algorithms and human decision-makers.
Do Programs Exist to Help Service Members Make an AI Career Transition?
There are official programs, such as DoD SkillBridge, which allow service members to intern at civilian companies during their final months of service. Combined with the discipline, security clearances, and proven problem-solving skills honed during military service, these veterans represent a uniquely qualified and valuable pool of talent for the burgeoning artificial intelligence industry.
If you want a civilian job in AI, explore your options in this area as well as earning a degree or certificate using the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
>Find the right job for you –– GET STARTED TODAY!
