Transitioning from the Military to Corporate Data Analytics (Why I Chose the Data School)

Are you a current or former military member looking to transition into data analytics? Be sure to consider the Data School to jumpstart your career!


I served in the Air Force for six years and then worked as a contractor for various companies and federal agencies in northern Virginia. When I left the Air Force, I had the time and space to think about what I really wanted to do with my life. After turning down several opportunities to become a civilian federal employee, I got my first exposure to big data while working as an intelligence analyst for the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA). My role was to provide analytical support to a data team building and testing a new dataset.

Working with the data team spurred my interest in data and I decided to take an online bootcamp in data analytics. Initially, I began the program to merely supplement my skills at work. Eventually, I settled on a full career pivot. Now, I’m at the Data School looking to expand my data skills and build upon everything I’ve learned in the military to become a data consultant.

The decision to come to the Data School was not easy. I had opportunities to stay in northern Virginia, maintain my clearance, and work as a data consultant – everything I envisioned for myself when I started this journey. But when the offer came from the Data School, I had to think long and hard about what would be good for me. Looking back, it was ultimately a debate between comfort and challenge.

Staying in Virginia was the comfortable thing to do. I would be working in a similar environment with familiar customers. Going to the Data School would have forced me to move to another state, enter private sector, and possibly let my clearance expire.

I chose the Data School.

And I chose it for several reasons. The Data School employs industry-leading coaches who are fully invested in the success of its consultants. These coaches are frequently highlighted in the data community for their leadership and expertise. This was important to me because I wanted to form a solid foundation as I entered a new career field. The Data School coaches new hires for four months before they are rotated through four “placements” in two years.

The organization is fluid and open. Unlike the military and government agencies, the Data School is a streamlined organization that is agile and isn’t weighed down by rank, hierarchy, and bureaucracy. This was a welcome change after being in the government space for so long.

Ultimately, I wanted to challenge myself. I wanted to surround myself and grow with people who were similarly motivated and passionate. I believe there are a few places better than the Data School to do so.

If you are a current or former military member looking to transition into data analytics, consider applying to the Data School (application link below). Whether or not you join me here, I am sure that your military experience will serve as a great foundation for your new journey. In the meantime, be sure to continue to check out this blog and the blogs of other Data Schoolers to learn more about this exciting field!

Application link: https://thedataschool.com/apply/

Author:
Charles Yi
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