NatSec@Work is a virtual magazine powered by ClearanceJobs, crafted to keep the national security workforce in the loop. Each issue is distributed to over 800,000 recipients, packed with insights covering everything from workforce trends to the art of military transition.
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CONTENTS
Leadership Lessons and Highlights Profiles in Leadership: The Next Revolution with Ellen McCarthy With a career that spans over three decades in the national security and intelligence communities, Ellen McCarthy is typically been there, done that, and has the proverbial T-shirt. On Character: Gen Stanley McChrystal on Leadership, Community and the Workforce In On Character, retired General Stan McChrystal distills decades of battlefield leadership and boardroom experience into a reflection on the moral compass that guides effective leaders. Career Advice Your Fall Career Check-In : Moves to Make to Make Before the End of the Year There’s something about fall that signals a shift. The weather might be changing but our mindset does a little too. Reflect on Your Career with These 5 Journal Prompts Taking time to assess where you are, what excites you, and where you want to go is essential for growth and clarity. Lifestyle Mission-Ready Mind and Body: A Fall Wellness Guide for the National Security Workforce Let the algorithms sweat the details so you don’t have to. For tactical professionals, veterans, and cleared workers, it’s the perfect time to sharpen both body and mind. Recharge Your Mission Clarity with A Weekend Reset You don’t need a full-on wellness retreat to feel more grounded. Sometimes, all it takes is a weekend reset.
Message from the Editor Team on a Mission Workforce Trends
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Global Conflict and The Changing Warfighter: How Defense Contractor Hiring Is Evolving Global friction is reconfiguring how Western contractors staff up, especially across shipbuilding, cyber, logistics, and drones. The True Scale of U.S. National Security: Inside the Defense and Intelligence Community When we think about national security, we often picture soldiers in uniform, agents in dark suits, or satellites tracking threats from space…and they all exist. Security Clearance Updates Why Clearance Reciprocity Still Isn’t Working—and What the GAO Report Reveals Clearance reciprocity, or the lack of it, continues to plague both government agencies and the professionals who serve them. Security Clearance Reciprocity: 7 Reasons Your Clearance Might Not Transfer Security clearance reciprocity is a government policy that allows security clearance holders to move between government agencies without undergoing redundant security clearance investigations.
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Military Transition Your Military Exit Playbook: Top Programs Every Service Member Needs to Know Leaving the military can feel overwhelming. For one thing, it is a big change to leave the service and find a role in a new company. Maximizing Your GI Bill Benefits This Year As we get ready to enter a new year, military members who will be separating soon and veterans alike might be thinking about how to best use their GI Bill benefits in 2025 and beyond. Contract Highlights Rheinmetall Opening New U.S. Hub and Other Global Defense Leaders Growing in Virginia It was announced earlier this month that German automotive and arms manufacturer Rheinmetall AG will invest in a new U.S. hub in Fairfax County. Defense Industry on the Move: Investments, Innovations and Strategic Wins From Army Contract to Interest Rates: The Forces Moving PLTR Stock Palantir (PLTR) has had powerful catalysts on both the positive and negative side, providing reasons for the ups and downs for PLTR stock. Stay in the Know Voices of the Mission
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Message from the Editor
Team on a Mission
September is often described as a season of transition. Summer fades, the pace picks up, and we find ourselves looking ahead to what’s next. In national security, that shift is rarely just seasonal. It’s driven by the evolving realities of global conflict, emerging technology, and the changing needs of the modern warfighter. This issue of NatSec@Work takes you inside that evolution. We explore how defense contractors are responding to shifting priorities, where talent demand is surging, and how new tools, from autonomous systems to advanced logistics, are shaping the battlefield. It’s not just about equipment or strategy; it’s about the people who adapt, innovate, and keep the mission moving forward. Whether you’re tracking workforce trends, navigating your own career in the cleared community, or simply seeking a broader understanding of the national security landscape, this month’s stories offer a front-row view of an industry in motion. Because in national security, standing still isn’t an option. The mission itself is adapting, and we have to adapt with it.
Jill Hamilton CONTENT DIRECTOR
Amanda Hauck SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Eric Peinovsky VP OF MARKETING
Alex Schildt PRESIDENT, CLEARANCEJOBS
Morgan Wheeler SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
Phoebe Wells PR & PARTNERSHIPS CONTENT MANAGER
Karen Camp SENIOR PROGRAM MANAGER
Chaz Dorr ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF BRANDING & SALES MEDIA
- Jill Hamilton Content Director, NatSec@Work
Megan Scholten DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
Lindy Kyzer VP OF CONTENT & MARKET ENGAGEMENT
Rose Fan SENIOR DIRECTOR OF PRODUCT
Mark Chase HEAD OF PRODUCT & ENGINEERING
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Workforce Trends
U.S. Border & Logistics Surge Support
“At Leonardo DRS, we are hiring today for critical thinkers, problem solvers, and innovative leaders... we are proud to design and deliver innovative technology solutions in support of all branches of the military.” The message is clear: whether you’re contributing to intelligence systems or cutting-edge defense technologies, these firms portray their workforce as central to national and global security efforts. How Global Security Is Shaping U.S. Hiring Strategy Across all regions, what’s clear is how global conflict is reshaping U.S. defense hiring. The war in Ukraine, tensions in the Middle East, and more have forced a pivot from slow, bureaucratic hiring toward ramped-up workforce expansions with new emphasis on: ▶ Rapid recruitment of technical talent in cyber, AI, autonomous systems, logistics, and shipbuilding. ▶ Investment in training pipelines, whether nuclear academies, apprenticeships, or surge-ready logistics staffing. ▶ Strategic emphasis on drones and autonomous systems, blending R&D pipelines with operational urgency. ▶ Partnerships with universities, industry, and startups, boosting agility and breadth of talent sourcing. U.S. national security isn’t just driving hiring growth. It’s transforming how talent is developed and deployed. Employers now think about workforce readiness as dynamic and strategic, rather than reactive. The way we hire, train, and scale today will underpin how the U.S. adapts and innovates in a world where security and technology are in constant motion.
While details remain strategic, it’s clear logistics and surge capacity are now priorities. DoD acquisitions and Pentagon officials note reform is needed—the industrial base must scale “expand-on-demand” during crises, with adaptive partnerships and workforce flexibility. Drone Warfare: The New Frontier in Hiring Drone warfare, especially as seen in Ukraine, is shifting hiring toward autonomous systems, rapid production, and digital innovation. A recent New Yorker piece highlights how Ukraine’s mass-produced, low-cost drones forced U.S. leaders to rethink investments in autonomous and AI systems—with defense startups like Anduril rallying to answer that call. Voices from the Field In sectors like defense, the job goes beyond a paycheck—it’s about purpose. On BAE Systems’ careers site, the tone is clear and compelling: “A career here means using your passion and ingenuity to defend national security with breakthrough technology and intelligence solutions.” Meanwhile, they reinforce that their work isn’t abstract—it matters: “Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it’s what we do.” Over at Leonardo DRS, the language shifts toward innovation and inclusion:
GLOBAL CONFLICT AND THE CHANGING WARFIGHTER: HOW DEFENSE CONTRACTOR HIRING IS EVOLVING By Jill Hamilton
Global friction is reconfiguring how Western contractors staff up, especially across shipbuilding, cyber, logistics, and drones. Here’s how different regions are shaping the workforce landscape.
6 SEPTEMBER 2025 | NATSEC@WORK Powered by ClearanceJobs for the defence sector since the end of the Cold War,” with contractors like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and General Dynamics posting close to 6,000 open roles and aiming to expand workforce headcount by some 37,000 positions, around 10% of their total. concerns have overloaded hiring pipelines for engineers, welders, AI specialists, and mechanics. Firms are raising wages, launching training academies, and even recruiting from automotive sectors to keep pace. A Financial Times survey of 20 major U.S. and European defense contractors confirms this urgency—the “most intense period Europe & Ukraine: A Workforce Combining Tradition and Technology In Europe, defence firms are scrambling for workers. Tensions sparked by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and broader geopolitical
Leonardo’s chief people officer put it bluntly: the company’s “intense search for new hires” is “even more intense than during previous conflicts such as Iraq or Afghanistan.” And Nammo, a major ammunition provider, has grown headcount by 15% over two years and is preparing to double its size by 2030. Middle East & Indo‑Pacific: Shipyards, Nukes and Apprenticeships Geopolitical flashpoints in the Middle East and Indo-Pacific are unleashing demand in niche areas. Shipbuilding capacity, particularly for strategic vessels, is strained. In nuclear defense, the UK and Australia—through AUKUS—are launching nuclear skills academies and training pipelines to fill gaps in submarine, sonar, and nuclear component expertise.
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Career Advice
By Jill Hamilton
Explore Lateral Moves Before the Freeze Hits If you're feeling stuck but not ready for a giant leap, consider a lateral shift. These moves can increase your visibility, expand your network, or teach you a new part of the mission. 4. Many agencies and contractors lock in hiring decisions by early Q1, which means fall is your best chance to start the conversation before positions dry up. Connect with HR, raise your hand in team meetings, and let leadership know you're interested in growth. Schedule a Career Conversation Sometimes the best move you can make is a conversation. Set a meeting with your supervisor or mentor to talk about your career goals and how you’re tracking toward them. Don’t assume they know what you want. Clarity can create opportunity. 5. If your current organization doesn’t offer a clear path, that conversation can also help you assess when it’s time to start looking elsewhere. Fall Isn’t Just for Pumpkin Everything It’s easy to stay heads down and mission- focused, especially in national security work. But taking just a few hours this season to audit your progress, update your materials, and consider your next step could be the best career decision you make all year. And you can do all that with a pumpkin spice latte in hand too.
There’s something about fall that signals a shift. The weather might be changing but our mindset does a little too. The sprint toward year-end begins, calendars fill up, and before you know it, the holidays hit and things slow to a crawl. If you're in the national security space, this makes fall the ideal time to take stock of your career trajectory. Whether you're looking to level up, laterally shift, or simply get organized, a fall career check- in can set you up to finish the year strong and start the next one even stronger. Refresh Your Resume (Even If You're Not Job Hunting) Think of your resume like your security clearance paperwork: it’s always better to keep it current than scramble at the last minute. Take 20 minutes to scan through and update key accomplishments from the past year. Did you complete a major project? Shift into a new team or role? Lead others, even informally? Save a version of your resume that's tailored for internal opportunities and another version geared toward external roles. Even if you're not looking now, you’ll thank yourself later. 1.
season to reflect: have you experienced anything this year that could intersect with adjudicative guidelines? If so, make sure to consult your security officer and address any issues proactively. Use fall to monitor policy updates and guidance via reliable sources such as: • ClearanceJobs.com, which highlights news on clearance reform and procedural changes • The DCSA website for updates on Trusted Workforce 2.0 and evolving adjudication rules • ODNI releases, which may clarify what needs to be reported and how evaluations are conducted Clearance policies evolve over time. Staying updated helps ensure you're always aligned with best practices. Train for the Role You Want The quiet truth of national security careers is that people often get promoted not because they’re the most qualified, but because they’ve been preparing in the background. Use fall to register for that certification course, finish a leadership module, or brush up on tech trends like AI/ML, zero trust, or open- source intelligence. Not sure what’s next? Talk to someone one level above you and ask what skills or tools they use every day. That insight is often more valuable than a job description. 3.
Leverage your experience in new
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8 SEPTEMBER 2025 | NATSEC@WORK Powered by ClearanceJobs Scholarships are available to cover up to 25% of tuition costs —helping you navigate your next career move with efficiency. Areas of study include: Tech, Innovation, Policy, and Security. Learn More arlington.northeastern.edu
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Stay Sharp on Clearance Policy and Guidelines
If you're an active clearance holder, your self-reporting obligations (like noting foreign travel, financial shifts, or address changes) are ongoing. Use this
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Military Transition
separate benefits, and you do not have to have one to get the other. VA Health Care offers veterans’ health care benefits and VA Disability can increase the amount of health care benefits. Also, VA Disability can providing a direct compensation to veterans based on their rating. VA hospital also offer several classes and programs to help and connect veterans. Lastly, if you served overseas during your time in the service, make sure you check out the PACT Act to ensure you understand what may be covered from your service.
OTHER VETERAN RESOURCES If you are looking to start your own
business instead of finding a job with a company, there are several resources created for veterans. Boots to Business is a program created by the Small Business Administration and works to help veterans start their businesses. The Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) has also created a resources to help veterans. If you are looking for mentorship in your new career, check out American Corporate Partners. ACP matches veterans with mentors from industry that can help veterans in their career. Additional programs for veterans include Vets to Industry, Leadership Transition Institute that offer courses and virtual meet ups that allow veterans to connect. There are also organizations focused on helping veterans find jobs. Recruit Military, Hiring Our Heroes, and Hire Heroes. Veterans can also find support by joining veteran organizations such as the Veteran of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, American Veterans or a local organization focused on something you are passionate about.
YOUR MILITARY EXIT PLAYBOOK:
TOP PROGRAMS EVERY SERVICE MEMBER NEEDS TO KNOW
By Amanda Huffman
RESOURCES FOR ACTIVE DUTY SERVICE MEMBERS Because of the multiple challenges related to leaving the military service, there have been several resources created to help members. There are resources that members can use both while they are still on active duty. Then as they transition, there are additional resources they can use as veterans. Transition Assistance Program (TAP) TAP is traditionally a week-long class where members can get information ranging from how to find a new job to what resources are available to them through the Department of Veteran Affairs. This course can feel like a fire hose of information. Sometimes it can be valuable to take this course years before you transition and then once again as
DEPARTMENT OF VETERAN AFFAIRS RESOURCES Veterans may struggle with the transition out of the military, but there are resources and support to help you in your transition. Don’t be afraid to use these resources and ask other veterans what resources are available to you. Post 9/11 GI Bill The GI Bill gives Veterans the opportunity to attend college and earn a degree or advanced degree to help them in their next career path. The Post 9/11 GI Bill allows members to take course either in person or online. VA Disability and VA Health Care Another benefit veterans can receive and should know about are VA Health Care and VA Disability. These are two
Resume Writing Courses Many installations provide additional courses that go beyond TAP. Since military members often find themselves writing their first resume when they leave the military, a resume writing course is a great course to look for to help prepare you for success. Other courses on interviews and salary negotiation are also great to consider. Skillbridge Skillbridge is a program that allows service members to use their last few months (up to six) working for an organization that is part of the Skillbridge program through an internship. Service member can pick something like their military career or pick something new and unique. Utilizing this benefit requires planning and commanders’ approval.
Leaving the military can feel overwhelming. For one thing, it is a big change to leave the service and find a role in a new company. But the challenge of leaving the military goes beyond just the fact you need to find a new job. Former service members must also navigate a change into a workforce that has a culture and rhythm so different from military life. Add in the complication’s life brings for service members, and life situations don’t always look the same for each service members.
you leave the service. Some installations even provide different TAP courses. These courses are dependent on how long you have been in the military. And they can help you be better prepared for the next phase especially if you have been in the military until retirement . State Specific Benefit Programs This resource is open to both veterans and active duty, but if you are trying to decide if you should move or stay at your current location, it is great to understand what benefits are available to you in your state. Each state has their own way to showcase their veteran benefits ranging from a website with information, veteran resource officers, or full day classes highlighting benefits.
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Leadership Lessons and Highlights
How would you explain the importance of intelligence to someone without a background in the field? When I was a reporter, I learned quickly that facts on their own are not enough. You have to provide context, you have to verify, and you have to connect the dots for people. Intelligence is very similar, but the stakes are far higher. Intelligence is like navigation: If you are driving through a storm, you need headlights, wipers, and a map to know where you are going and what dangers lie ahead. It’s not about telling people what they want to hear, it’s about giving them information they need to hear so they can make informed choices in complex and often dangerous situations. At the end of the day, intelligence gives leaders the tools; whether they use these tools is up to them. But without them they are flying blind. Where do you see the future of OSINT and AI? Is there potential for a revolution in intelligence? Absolutely. Open Source has already transformed intelligence. With so much information now available in the open, the challenge is not in the collection, it’s discerning truth from noise. That’s where AI comes in. AI can, and already is, helping process vast amounts at incredible speed. But speed without judgement is dangerous. The revolution will come when we pair AI’s processing power with human expertise and shared standards for credibility. Done right, OSINT and AI won’t just complement classified sources, they will fundamentally change how intelligence is done, ensuring decision-makers have the clearest, most trustworthy picture possible.
Are we in danger of politicizing the IC? If so, how do we turn that clock back? In my experience, the biggest risk is not the analyst or the collector politicizing intelligence – it is those who receive the intelligence who are doing it. In the Intelligence Community, the workforce is almost hard-wired to guard against bias and to present the intelligence as they see it, even when it is unwelcome. The real risk, and where politicization comes to play, is when customers take that analysis and cherry-pick or twist it to fit a political agenda. That corrodes trust in the IC and with the public… and trust is our most important currency. What trends in intelligence do you anticipate over the next decade? Over the next decade, I see three big trends. First the explosion of data, volume and velocity will only grow, which means discernment and credibility will matter more than collections. AI and machine learning will be central to this trend. Second, integration… the IC will have to lean more on partnerships with allies, the private sector and academia. No one can do this alone. The challenge for the IC won’t be keeping up with technology but getting it and using it responsibly and faster than our adversaries. Finally, information integrity. Adversaries will keep weaponizing information, so protecting truth will become a core national security mission.
The Next Revolution with Ellen McCarthy
By Steve Leonard
S easoned is a word that often comes to mind when you hear Ellen McCarthy’s name mentioned. With a career that spans over three decades in the national security and intelligence communities, she’s typically been there, done that, and has the proverbial T-shirt. She began her journey as an all-source intelligence analyst at the Office of Naval Intelligence and continues on that path as one of the leading voices on AI and OSINT. Her travels through government service took her from the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence – where she shaped policy on intelligence reform – to the U.S. Coast Guard – where she played a pivotal role integrating the service’s efforts with the broader intelligence community. From the National Geospatial- Intelligence Agency – where she served as the Chief Operating Officer and led the agency’s transformation efforts – to the State Department – where she served as the Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Intelligence and Research. In the private sector, she served as the president of Noblis NSP, where she led cybersecurity and data-based solutions tailored to support the needs of the IC, and is the Chairwoman and CEO of the Trust in Media Cooperative, working to restore public confidence in the information ecosystem.
Her work on AI and OSINT is arguably the most relevant at this point in history, but also she possesses a unique and invaluable perspective on intelligence, information, and social media. Even as AI presents incredible opportunities, social media threatens to rip at the cultural divides in our society… and our adversaries are watching. Where does all of this lead? What does the future hold? These and a few other questions awaited Ellen when we sat down to chat: the good, the bad, and the ugly. What inspired your interest in intelligence? Sean Connery! He was starring in a movie adapted from an amazing book, The Hunt for Red October , by Tom Clancy. I was completing my graduate degree in public policy and working on a project at the Institute for Defense Analysis with the Office of Naval Intelligence. When the project was complete, the Navy offered me a job as a Soviet submarine analyst. I took the position thinking it would get me two steps closer to my real dream, a golden retriever, a sailboat and a house on Chesapeake Bay. From the very first day on the job, I was hooked.
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Leadership Lessons and Highlights
It's 2028 and we're gearing up for election season... What does the media landscape look like? Not pretty. In 2028, the media landscape is even more fragmented and influencer driven. Traditional outlets still matter but social platforms and AI-generated content dominate, leaving voters to navigate a flood of voices where trust is the scarce commodity. Election coverage looks less like a front page or nightly news broadcast and more like a series of competing narratives across platforms. In short, by 2028 the media environment is louder, faster, and harder to trust. The challenge for our free and open society will be to ensure that credible information is not drowned out and that citizens have the tolls and trust to navigate fact from fiction. Why do so many people lack trust in our media? People lack trust in the media because the landscape has changed and incentives have shifted. Today, media is no longer composed of a few trusted gatekeepers like newspapers or newsrooms to a fragmented, always-on ecosystem where anyone with a phone can shape the narrative. It’s the Wild West. And “news” is optimized for clicks outrage and speed rather than accuracy and depth. How much of a challenge is social media to provide fact-based information to Americans? Social media is one of the biggest challenges to providing fact-based information to America! But these platforms were not designed to inform, they were designed to engage. That means algorithms reward content that is emotional, sensational, or polarizing, not necessarily accurate. Fact-based reporting is competing in an unfair fight against clickbait, conspiracy theories and manufactured outrage. We live in an environment where truth struggles to keep up with noise.
Is it too late to turn the clock back on social media? What can we do as a society to de-weaponize social media? I am an optimist. It is never too late, but we can’t simply turn the clock back. Social media is here to stay, and it has fundamentally reshaped how people get information. The answer is not retreating from it, but reshaping the incentives, building standards, transparency and tools that elevate credible content instead of rewarding outrage. The solution isn’t censorship, it’s creating an environment where accuracy and credibility travel as far and as fast as inaccurate and credible information. What are our adversaries doing to exploit our issues with trust in the media? This is the real question… and the issue that keeps me awake at night and the reason I founded the Trust in Media Cooperative. Our adversaries don't have to create divisions; they just have to amplify the ones we already have. They exploit distrust in our information ecosystem and institutions by flooding the space with deepfakes, lies and conspiracy narratives, often recycling content that originates here at home. They don’t need to outfight us militarily; they just need to outmaneuver us in the realm of trust. As I finished pulling together my notes from our discussion, I couldn’t shake the feeling that Ellen’s perspective is one that far more people need to hear. But are they really listening? And are the right people paying attention? That final question also keeps me up at night, and it should you, too. The next war might already be here; we’re just too busy posting vacation photos to recognize it for what it is.
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Lifestyle
Level Up Unlike the crash diets or beach body hype of summer, fall is a great time to build long-term habits. Think of it as a personal reconditioning phase. This is when smart professionals lean into routines that are sustainable — hitting the gym three times a week, dialing in meal prep, and turning that 10 p.m. doom scroll into a 10 p.m. lights-out.
Balancing the Mission and the Mindset Let’s be real. The operational tempo, even outside of uniform, is no joke. Whether you're managing sensitive programs, overseeing contractors, or sitting in on classified briefings, it’s easy to put your own health at the bottom of the list. But if the past few years have taught us anything, it’s this: you are the mission. Your mental sharpness, your physical stamina, your ability to show up each day — those things aren’t secondary. They are core to national security and mission success. Fall is the perfect time to refocus on what makes you operationally excellent. Start with your habits. Build your plan. Leverage your tools. And get after it.
Gear That Keeps Up Back-to-work means back-to-sitting for a lot of us. But performance doesn’t stop just because you’re in meetings or behind a desk. GORUCK’s Simple Pants or 5.11’s Defender Flex Jeans give you the mobility of workout gear with the look of business casual. Vuori and Rhone continue to offer comfortable, professional-ish gear that transitions from laptop to lunch run with no problem. Tactical backpacks like Evergoods or Mystery Ranch let you carry your gear, laptop, and post-work gym clothes without looking like you're still in basic training. And if your fitness plan includes early mornings or late nights, invest in gear that keeps you warm, visible, and ready to move — not retreat.
MISSION-READY MIND AND BODY:
A FALL WELLNESS GUIDE FOR THE NATIONAL SECURITY WORKFORCE
By Jill Hamilton
Consider adding a new dimension to your workouts:
Cold weather rucking: Layer up, throw on your pack, and hit the trail. It builds strength, endurance, and clarity. Mobility work: Tactical athletes tend to beat up their bodies. Adding 10 minutes of mobility or yoga into your day can unlock serious gains in both performance and pain reduction. Mental strength training: Whether it’s mindfulness apps like Headspace or The Resilience Project, or old-school journaling and reading, don’t forget that a strong mind is just as mission-critical as a strong body.
Whoop Strap 4.0: A favorite in the special ops and veteran fitness communities, Whoop gives you a recovery score each day so you know when to push hard and when to back off. Oura Ring: Subtle, sleek, and packed with data, the Oura ring is great for cleared professionals who want to keep an eye on sleep and readiness without a bulky wrist device. Pair these with apps like TrainHeroic, StrongLifts, or MyFitnessPal, and you’re not just training harder — you’re training smarter.
In the fall, the air turns crisp (for some of us in the U.S.), routines return after summer chaos, and even the pumpkin spice crowd seems more motivated. For tactical professionals, veterans, and cleared workers, it’s the perfect time to sharpen both body and mind. Whether you're prepping for a PT test, rehabbing an old injury, or just trying to shake off a summer slump, fall offers the momentum to build a better you. Here's how to make it happen with the right tech, tools, and tactics.
Make Your Tech Work for You Wearable tech isn’t just for counting steps anymore. For cleared professionals balancing high-stakes missions and real- world responsibilities, the latest devices can offer insight into everything from stress levels to sleep quality. Garmin Tactix or Instinct 2 Solar Tactical : Built for the field, these watches track performance, stress, heart rate, and even have stealth and night vision compatibility modes.
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Security Clearance Updates
For The
Driven
S ince 1919, Kettering University, formerly GMI, has been shaping the future by preparing graduates with the skills that matter. Our students dive into their careers on day one through our signature 50/50 blend of rigorous academics and paid Co-op employment. They rise faster, go further, and achieve more than their peers—backed by a Top 10 Ranking for Career Preparation by The Wall Street Journal. Some accomplishments can be shared, while others remain proprietary breakthroughs shaping advancements in engineering, computer science, and business, driving success for the world’s most innovative companies.
By Lindy Kyzer
$55-$75K + Earned in Co-op over 4.5 years Worth of real-world, paid Co-op experience before graduating 2.5 YEARS # 1 Graduate salaries in Michigan (The Wall Street Journal) 100 + Patent applications filed and held by Kettering students in the past 14 years
What if the future of national security innovation depended on fixing one of the most persistent challenges in the cleared world? Clearance reciprocity—or the lack of it—continues to plague both government agencies and the professionals who serve them. In the latest episode of ClearedCast, we dive deep into why clearance reciprocity remains a bureaucratic bottleneck, despite years of promised reforms and new policy directives. The conversation is sparked by a 2024 Federal Times article referencing a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report that found 17 out of 31 surveyed agencies openly admit they don’t trust each other’s clearance adjudications. While polygraph policies and agency-specific suitability guidelines contribute to the disconnect, the biggest barrier isn’t politics—it’s spreadsheets. Yes, spreadsheets. According to ODNI, many agencies continue to manually transfer clearance data via emailed Excel files—a practice vulnerable to human error and woefully outdated in today’s threat environment.
Even as DCSA touts a six-day onboarding process for clearances, that only addresses part of the problem. Transferring between agencies—especially into the intelligence community—remains painfully slow, often requiring reinvestigations, polygraphs, or new paperwork. Policy alone won’t solve this. What’s needed is strong oversight, a centralized push for polygraph reform, and pressure from Congress to enforce ODNI’s authority. Without it, agencies will continue to “thumb their noses” at reciprocity directives, leaving clearance holders stuck in bureaucratic limbo.
Ifyou onlygo to class, it’s likeyou’re only half an engineer. Kettering graduates hit the ground running.” DR. PATRICK ATKINSON ’91 Professor of Mechanical Engineering
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NATSEC@WORK Powered by ClearanceJobs | SEPTEMBER 2025
Leadership Lessons and Highlights
A Capstone That Almost Wasn’t McChrystal laughed when I asked him about setting out to write a book on character. “It was not,” he admitted, “there was not even going to be a book.” Originally, he explained, the project was just a series of reflections — “What I Think About the Things I Think About” — with no real throughline. But as he continued writing, one idea surfaced again and again: the link between conviction, discipline, and character. “Conviction times discipline equals character,” he said simply. That formula became the centerpiece of the book and the defining message of his career’s reflection. For McChrystal, this wasn’t an abstract idea. It was a principle sharpened by decades of high-stakes leadership, tough deployments, and hard-earned lessons. And while he may joke that the book is a capstone because his wife doesn’t want him to write any more, the truth is that it offers a summation of wisdom desperately needed in today’s environment — in government, in business, and across the national security workforce. Exhaustion in the Digital Era When we began the interview, I shared my own sense of exhaustion with back-to-back meetings, never-ending notifications, and the feeling of always being “on” in the digital era. McChrystal immediately agreed. “It’s exhausting,” he said. “You can go beyond your ability to maintain energy. At least I can.” This admission matters. McChrystal has long been seen as a leader with bottomless stamina — the kind of general who ran seven miles before breakfast and led at a relentless pace. To hear him acknowledge exhaustion is to be reminded that energy is finite for everyone, no matter the myth. For today’s workforce, this is more than relatable; it is instructive. Leaders cannot assume that simply because technology enables endless meetings, human beings can sustain them. Burnout is real, and without discipline — the second part of McChrystal’s formula — conviction can wither under the weight of exhaustion.
Doing Your Best in the Face of Disappointment McChrystal is no stranger to difficult outcomes. Reflecting on U.S. involvement in Iraq, Afghanistan, and even Vietnam, he did not sugarcoat the reality that many national security efforts ended in disappointment. “In each case, we ended up with disappointing outcomes,” he said. “The question is really, did we do our best? And if we did our best, you can sleep at night. If you didn’t do your best, you should feel guilty.” This perspective is particularly relevant in government and industry roles where outcomes are often shaped by forces far beyond individual control. Policy shifts, political tides, or global crises can undermine even the best-executed plans. For the national security workforce, McChrystal’s standard is clarifying: your responsibility is not perfection but effort. Did you show up with conviction? Did you apply discipline? Did you do your best with the tools, authority, and knowledge you had? Leaders who can answer “yes” to those questions can move forward without the paralyzing burden of regret.
By Lindy Kyzer
I n On Character , retired General Stan McChrystal distills decades of battlefield leadership and boardroom experience into a reflection on the moral compass that guides effective leaders. Far from a traditional military memoir, McChrystal’s work probes the essence of integrity, humility, and resilience, offering readers both cautionary tales and aspirational models. As someone immersed in the national security community, I see On Character as not just a book about leadership, but about how values shape decisions in the moments that matter most, whether in war, work, or everyday life. McChrystal challenges us to view character not as a static trait but as a discipline to be cultivated, tested, and lived. In his latest book, which he jokingly calls his “capstone,” McChrystal argues that the most important measure of
a leader isn’t found in their resume, their rank, or their achievements, but in their character. For him, character is the product of two variables: conviction and discipline. When those elements multiply, leaders can not only weather challenges themselves but also strengthen the communities and organizations around them. I had the privilege of sitting down with General McChrystal to talk about his latest work, in a conversation that spanned the exhausting pace of modern work, lessons drawn from Iraq and Afghanistan, and the enduring importance of community, whether in small towns or digital spaces. What emerged was a vision of leadership that feels both timeless and urgent, offering guidance for today’s workforce as it navigates complexity, connection, and constant change.
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Leadership Lessons and Highlights
Community as the Safety Net If conviction and discipline form the internal scaffolding of character, community provides the external support. McChrystal emphasized that point repeatedly. “The military has a bunch of communities,” he explained. “They become your safety net. They become your friends, your mentors. It’s not limiting, it’s enabling, because you’ve got a foundation to stand on.” Community, he suggested, is what sustains individuals when conviction falters or discipline is tested. It is the network of peers, mentors, and colleagues who remind you of your values and hold you accountable.
This theme resonated with me personally. At ClearanceJobs, we often describe ourselves as a community, not just a website. To some, that may sound like branding. But to those who have spent careers in military units, government agencies, or contracting firms, community is not an abstract idea. It is the difference between resilience and isolation. For professionals navigating the cleared workforce, community is what keeps individuals grounded amid career transitions, relocations, or the unique pressures of holding a security clearance. It is the reminder that you are not alone, that others share the same challenges and the same mission. Building Community Beyond the Uniform McChrystal’s emphasized that community is not exclusive to the military. It can be built anywhere, even in a city like Alexandria, Va., where he and his family live.
3. Character is the product of both. Conviction without discipline leads to burnout or empty passion. Discipline without conviction becomes rigid routine. Together, they form character, the essential trait of a trusted leader. 4. Community enables resilience. No leader succeeds alone. Communities, whether professional networks, military units, or neighborhoods, provide the safety net that catches you when you stumble and the foundation that allows you to stand taller. 5. Doing your best is enough. Outcomes cannot always be controlled. What can be controlled is effort. Leaders who give their best can rest knowing they met their responsibility, even if circumstances prevented the result they hoped for. McChrystal’s reflections on character are not just lessons for military leaders. They are blueprints for anyone navigating the pressures of today’s workforce, particularly in national security, where stakes are high, burnout is real, and community is often the only buffer against isolation. In an era of constant digital connectivity, relentless work pace, and shifting global challenges, his message is both timeless and urgent: cultivate conviction, practice discipline, build community, and do your best. Character, in the end, is not something you are born with or something you declare. It is something you build — day after day, decision after decision, in the company of people who keep you grounded.
“You can find your community wherever you are,” he said.
McChrystal’s example is a reminder that community does not happen by accident. It is cultivated, intentionally and with effort. For the national security workforce, this is a lesson worth carrying. Whether you’re in uniform, working at a federal agency, or supporting missions as a contractor, the communities you cultivate, inside and outside of work, are the networks that sustain you. They are the people who encourage you when work feels meaningless, the peers who advocate for you when opportunities arise, and the mentors who guide you when conviction or discipline wavers. Lessons for Today’s Leaders What should leaders and professionals in today’s workforce take away from McChrystal’s reflections on character? 1. Leadership requires conviction. Whether you are leading a platoon, a project team, or a hiring initiative, you must believe in what you are doing. Without conviction, leadership becomes hollow and transactional. 2. Discipline sustains conviction. Energy and enthusiasm can fade. Discipline — the routines, the accountability, the commitment to do the work even when you don’t feel like it — ensures that conviction is more than a momentary spark.
That is not just a capstone lesson for a retired general. It is a call to action for all of us.
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NATSEC@WORK Powered by ClearanceJobs | SEPTEMBER 2025
Security Clearance Updates
7 Examples Where Reciprocity May Not Be Possible In some cases, reciprocity isn’t available. Below are some examples when an individual’s existing security clearance may not be eligible for reciprocity and where gaining agencies may need to conduct additional security clearance processing. 1 . You are seeking to move to a higher-level security clearance
2 . 3 .
Your existing security clearance was granted on an interim, limited, or one-term basis
The date of your last investigation, upon which your existing clearance is based, is older than seven years for Top Secret, 10 years for Secret, and 15 years for Confidential The position for which you are being considered requires a polygraph examination (which was not the case for the earlier security clearance) or a different type of polygraph than you had taken for the prior agency
4 .
5 . 6 . 7 .
Your existing security clearance was based on an exception to standards (Appendix C, SEAD 4)
The position for which you are being considered has Special Access Program (SAP) requirements (SAP access is treated very differently by each agency) You are currently cleared at the Confidential or Secret level clearance, and the position for which you are being considered requires a Top-Secret level clearance.
By John Berry
Security clearance reciprocity is a government policy that allows security clearance holders to move between government agencies without undergoing redundant security clearance investigations. By expediting the process of obtaining a new security clearance at a new agency, reciprocity enhances national security without essentially requiring a “do over” investigation that was previously approved by a different agency. This saves on costs to the government and time lost in a new position. However, the reciprocity process can be complicated, and it doesn’t always work as intended.
How Does Reciprocity Work? Reciprocity comes into play when the cleared individual seeks to move to a different agency. The individual will seek reciprocity for their existing security clearance with the new agency. The gaining agency’s security office will check your eligibility in databases such as the Defense Information System for Security (DISS) or Scattered Castles (Intelligence Community clearances) and begin the process. The gaining agency will then conduct a review of the adjudicative decision made by the original granting agency. If no flag or disqualifying information is present they will likely honor the prior adjudication. If issues are discovered, the gaining agency may request additional information or simply deny reciprocity. If there are no issues, the individual’s clearance will transfer and you will be given reciprocity. Final Thoughts Security clearance reciprocity is intended to enhance efficiency while upholding strict security standards. Guided by EO 13467, IRTPA, SEAD 7, and related policies, it establishes a legal framework for the mutual recognition of adjudicative decisions across federal agencies. However, its effectiveness remains challenged by inconsistent implementation, and agency-specific requirements. Reciprocity often works smoothly and other times there are major problems. Many issues cannot be predicted accurately. If you find yourself stuck, please reach out to a security clearance lawyer for advice or assistance.
Purpose of Security Clearance Reciprocity The primary goal of security clearance reciprocity is to make it easier to enable a federal employee, member of the military or government contractor to transfer a security clearance from one agency to another, provided certain conditions are met. Reciprocity, when it works, avoids unnecessary delays in mission-critical work and helps conserve government resources. Furthermore, it makes life a lot easier for security clearance holders who do not have undergo a new investigation before beginning work when they already have one.
What Governs Reciprocity? Security clearance reciprocity is governed many government laws, executive orders, rules and regulations. These start with Executive Order 13467 (EO 13467) which provides that government agencies should use reciprocity for security clearances. Security Agent Executive Directive 7 (SEAD 7) implements EO 13467 reciprocity rules and provides specific criteria for accepting prior investigations and adjudications. Additionally, Section 3001 of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act requires the timely processing of security clearances and encourages reciprocity unless disqualifying information exists.
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