Just separated from the Military a few months ago. Would like to attain IT certifications such as ITIL, CompTIA Security+, MCP, and CCNA. How can I get my GI bill to pay for the certification exams? How can I take these exams for free? Are there some entities for veterans that offer this for free? I plan on registering for college classes for a BA in IT service management but not sure which schools are the best for that in WA State via college campus or online schools nation wide. Where can I get my foot in the door as a ITSM (entry level)? ...contracting companies, DoD, DoA...? Any and all help is much appreciated. Thanks in advance.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Hire Our Heroes have teamed up to offer training for Veterans in cybersecurity, in support of Veterans join our nation’s cybersecurity workforce. DHS’s Federal Virtual Training Environment (Fed VTE) offers free online, on-demand cyber security training to government employees and Veterans. https://hireourheroes.org/veterans-training/ Veterans eligible to receive free cybersecurity training - VAntage Point https://www.sfs.opm.gov/ https://fedvte.usalearning.gov/
Western Governors University. Most of the certifications you seek are part of their IT degree plans. The BS IT-Security degree looks pretty close to what you're looking for.
I recommend that you look at Syracuse University's Veterans Career Transition Program (VCTP). This is a free program (for veterans within three years of separation) to complete non-credit courses towards a number of certifications. Additionally, the program will actually pay the full fee for one certification exam if you complete their prep course. Best yet, once you're admitted you have access to these courses for a full year. You may only enroll in once course at a time, but can complete as many you want within a year's time. Some of the options include: A+ Security + Network + Cloud + Certified Ethical Hacker CISSP ITIL Foundation CCNA PMP/CAPM Lean Six Sigma Green Belt ('certification' from Syracuse University) PHR Course Offerings - Job Training Services For Veterans & Service Members :