Transitioning Veterans Finding Jobs & Purpose in the Security Industry

Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be daunting for many Veterans. For example, in a survey conducted by Prudential, 69% of veterans reported that they think finding a job as a civilian is the greatest challenge in transitioning. The perceived challenges in finding a job were: 

Fortunately, the security industry has emerged as a promising field for Veterans seeking employment. As a veteran-owned small business, East West Consulting Group International (EWCGI) is passionate about helping veterans transition and providing various job opportunities. 

“Initially my transition from military to civilian life went fairly smoothly. I had 12 years prior experience in the IT industry, a college degree, and was able to find employment as a project manager in the Seattle area fairly quickly. However, within two years of my ETS, a divorce and an economic recession hit me like a ton of bricks and I found myself out of work. I had lost contact with most of my military connections and support network and struggled to get back on my feet as I always had. Security work was a quick win because it relies on skills that are second nature to many of us – guarding a post, showing up on time, demonstrating professionalism, and working well with others. Three years later I founded Northwest Overwatch and today I’m using my experience to help other Veterans avoid some of the challenges I faced and utilize all of the opportunities available to them.”

CEO and Founder, Kyle Paskewitz, East West Consulting Group International

In this blog post, we’ll explore why the security industry is a natural fit for transitioning Veterans, offering them not just a job but a fulfilling career path where their skills and experiences are highly valued.   

Veteran Skill Set & Their Advantage 

Veterans bring unique skills and experiences to the table, honed through years of military service. From discipline and adaptability to leadership and problem-solving, these qualities are not just desirable but essential in the security industry. For example, military training in areas such as risk assessment, crisis management, and strategic planning equip Veterans with the ability to manage stress, perform under pressure, and adapt to various situations. Moreover, veterans often possess strong leadership qualities, teamwork skills, and a commitment to duty, which are essential attributes in security roles.  

Additionally, military life fosters attention to detail and emphasizes the importance of following protocols and post orders, ensuring safety and security. Lastly, Veterans have innate command presence, often exhibiting confidence and authority, which helps maintain order and increases professionalism. 

Transitioning into the Security Industry 

Many veterans find that transitioning into the security industry is a relatively smooth process, thanks to the familiarity of the work environment and the transferability of their skills. In addition, security companies often prioritize hiring veterans due to their proven track record of reliability, adaptability, and professionalism. For example, EWCGI primarily employs military veterans because we recognize their reliability, integrity, and commitment to our mission. Furthermore, veterans may already possess relevant certifications and security clearances, streamlining the hiring process and giving them a competitive edge in the job market.  

Roles in the Security Industry 

The security industry, with its diverse career paths, is a perfect fit for veterans, offering them the opportunity to apply their unique skills and interests in a variety of roles. Whether it’s their diligent approach to security tasks and training, their strategic planning and consulting abilities, or their knack for working with people from a variety of backgrounds and cultures, veterans can confidently navigate their career trajectory in a way that aligns with their aspirations and goals.  

At EWCGI, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of services, which creates a variety of security roles. These roles, each unique in their responsibilities and challenges, include: 

1. Security Officer: a uniformed security guard or security patrol officer protecting a variety of installations, including private residences, apartments, condominiums, retail storefronts, businesses, construction sites, and other public and private property, personnel, assets, and equipment.  
2. Private Investigator: a private investigator conducts investigations, background checks, gathers information, physical and digital surveillance, serves legal documents, or provides expert testimony.  
3. Security Consultant: a specialist that provides small and large businesses with security expertise and short- or long-term security solutions. This may include a combination of physical security, security staffing, and technology. 
4. Cybersecurity Specialist: certified project managers that design video surveillance and biometric access control systems, customized software, data analysis and reporting databases, knowledge bases, data centers, and more. 
5. Close Protection / Executive Protection Agent: a professional agent that provides close protection solutions to individuals and their assets and families. 

Qualified veterans may find security job opportunities within the East West member network working for Northwest Overwatch as a licensed Security Officer, East West Security & Consulting as a Private Investigator or EP Agent, or as a Cybersecurity Specialist, Consultant or Project Manager with Destiny Technologies International. 

Benefits of Working in Security 

In the survey by Prudential, veterans listed the following concerns when looking for employment:  

“When veterans leave the military, they need a purpose. With most veterans being natural protectors, the world of security and close protection helps to provide them with that purpose and keep them surrounded by likeminded individuals.”

Christipher “Mac” MacAuley, Senior Officer in Charge, Northwest Overwatch

Considering these concerns, the security industry offers several benefits that appeal to transitioning veterans. For instance, many security roles offer competitive salaries and benefits, providing veterans with financial stability during their transition. There are also career advancement and professional development opportunities, allowing veterans to build long-term careers and progress into leadership roles.  Additionally, veteran-owned businesses can tailor their benefits and training to what military families value the most. 

However, one of the most significant benefits of working in security is the opportunity for veterans to continue serving their communities and contributing to public safety, fulfilling their sense of duty and purpose. Additionally, many companies prioritize creating a culture of camaraderie and teamwork, mirroring the feeling of brotherhood and sisterhood experienced in the military and offering veterans a supportive community where they can thrive and grow professionally.   

How EWCGI Can Help 

In Prudential’s survey, veteran job seekers expressed their specific needs and a strong interest in customized programs or services. These needs and potential programs/services are shown in the following images: 

In collaboration with East West Consulting Group International, Destiny Technologies International (DTI) is a resource for veterans transitioning into civilian life. As a veteran-owned and operated non-profit business within East West’s member network, DTI is committed to providing employment opportunities, training, and support to veterans, military spouses, and qualified candidates in the community. With a focus on creating a positive work environment rooted in familiarity and purpose, DTI offers tailored services and mentorship to empower veterans as they embark on fulfilling careers in the security industry. Through personalized service and dedication to high standards, DTI ensures veterans receive the support they need to thrive and make a meaningful impact in their new roles.

Explore DTI’s job portal or send us a message to learn more! 

Also, be sure to check out DTI’s Veteran Services FAQ page to find support services, community programs, and helpful information tailored to veterans’ needs. 

Blog Sources

ASIS International. (2021, June 17). Military veterans bring a lot to the security industry: What you should know. ASIS Blog. https://www.asisonline.org/publications–resources/news/blog/military-veterans-bring-a-lot-to-the-security-industry-what-you-should-know/#:~:text=The%20security%20industry%20is%20a%20natural%20career%20transition,post%20orders%2C%20manage%20stress%20and%20perform%20under%20pressure. 

Citroën, L. (2023, November 3). Why a career in the security industry may be the right path for Veterans. Military.com. https://www.military.com/veteran-jobs/why-career-security-industry-may-be-right-path-veterans.html 

Prudential. (2012). Veterans’ employment challenges: Perceptions and experiences of transitioning from military to civilian life. Oregon State University. Veterans’ Employment Challenges Report | Prudential (oregonstate.edu)