VetsinTech Receives $1 Million Grant from Craig Newmark Philanthropies to Bolster Cybersecurity Program for Veterans

The cybersecurity program equips veterans, active duty personnel and their spouses with the skills needed to launch a career in cybersecurity

WASHINGTON, Sept. 13, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, VetsinTech announced a $1 million grant from Craig Newmark, founder of craigslist and Craig Newmark Philanthropies, to support the organization's commitment to helping veterans transition into meaningful careers in the cybersecurity and tech industries.

Using this three-year grant, which was made through Craig Newmark Philanthropies, VetsinTech will triple the number of veterans it serves each year through its cybersecurity program. "Now more than ever, cyberattacks threaten our national security and our democracy," said Craig Newmark. "Former military service members are uniquely positioned to tackle those threats head-on."

VetsinTech is working with industry leaders, including Palo Alto Networks, Cisco, Splunk, and Symantec, to create its multifaceted cybersecurity program. Through a combination of live classroom and self-paced instruction, the program will provide training on how to use state-of-the-art platforms. VetsinTech will also support participants with mentorship opportunities and wrap-around services to help ensure that veterans succeed in seeking cybersecurity careers.

With more than one million jobs in cybersecurity emerging and almost 250,000 veterans transitioning from active service each year, VetsinTech is committed to providing veterans with the resources and opportunities needed to launch a career in technology. By connecting veterans with educational programs, through its active, nationwide chapter network, and a diverse coalition of employers, VetsinTech has seen a 92-percent success rate in post-training employment.

"A cybersecurity skillset is highly sought-after among our employer coalition," said VetsinTech founder Katherine Webster. "Craig Newmark's generous donation will enable VetsinTech to match veterans' skills to what is desired in the industry."

About VetsinTech

VetsinTech supports our current and returning veterans with re-integration services, and by connecting them to the national technology ecosystem. ViT is committed to bringing together a tech-specific network, resources, and programs for our veterans interested in Education, Entrepreneurship, and Employment – the 3E's!

About Craig Newmark Philanthropies

Craig Newmark Philanthropies was created by craigslist founder Craig Newmark to support and connect people and drive broad civic engagement. The organization works to advance people and grassroots organizations that are getting stuff done in areas that include trustworthy journalism, voter protection, gender diversity in technology, and veterans and military families.