I’m Not Unemployed, but I Am Hiring.

Instead of hoping someone would give me a job, I decided to create jobs for others.

I was a cryptographer for the Navy, working with the National Security Agency (NSA). I had the highest security clearance possible by age 18. So naturally, after my discharge I started looking for cybersecurity work. The problem was, potential employers knew what people at my level get paid in the Navy. They thought I would consider myself lucky just to get a job. I was consistently offered less than half of what civilians with fewer skills were making.

I had to believe I was worth more than the offers I was getting. More importantly, I had to prove it. So I used my GI Bill to get a Masters in Network Security. That made it clear I was a subject matter expert, both on paper and in real life.

I started a cybersecurity company that simulates attacks on clients’ networks. We have a cloud-based program that identifies vulnerabilities, reports what kinds of attacks could exploit them, and prescribes how to mitigate the risk. In short, I’m using my cyber security training to make the web a safer place.

I’m not “lucky” to have a job. My business is growing. There’s no greater feeling in the world than being able to help others provide for their families. I love that I can provide health care and benefits to my employees, in addition to a competitive salary.

As much as veterans have to deal with negative stereotypes, we also have to deal with our own fear and anxiety about civilian life. We get scared about our ability to adapt and survive after we get out. You hear a lot of, “Man, I don’t know if I can make it out there,” or “Stay in as long as you can.”

Let me tell you, if you can survive in the desert in 120-degree heat with your life in constant danger, you can survive an air-conditioned office. You have been trained to adapt and thrive in any situation, and that includes in the civilian world. You can learn anything that anyone else can learn.

Use the resources available to veterans. Don’t let that GI Bill sit unused — get your degree to back-up your practical experience. Network with your fellow veterans and develop a professional online presence that will draw employers in. Make the most of the free resources that LinkedIn provides. That is, until you become the employer yourself.

20 years ago, when I left my first tour, I got a picture frame signed by everyone I served with. Someone wrote, “Good luck with your business.” Even then, I knew someday I would be an entrepreneur. My time in the Navy gave me the skills to start my own company. My drive to succeed and willingness to learn helped make it happen.

If you’re about to make the transition to civilian life, don’t worry. You have been finely conditioned to achieve amazing things. Believe you are valuable, know your true worth, and don’t settle for anything less.

-Marcus

It’s time to rethink the way we honor our veterans. This Veterans Day, and every day moving forward, we’re not only recognizing veterans for their achievements in uniform, but also celebrating their potential and all they have yet to accomplish. Watch the #HonorOurFuture campaign video below.