Yesterday at the U.S. Department of Labor’s National Apprenticeship Week National Signing Day Ceremony, the U.S. Department of War (DoW) Office of the Chief Information Officer (CIO) announced the launch of the Cyber Registered Apprenticeship Program (Cyber RAP) - a landmark initiative designed to rapidly cultivate a new generation of elite cybersecurity professionals.

Driven by the vision of President Trump, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, and Honorable Kirsten Davies, the DoW is aggressively shifting away from a “degree first” mindset in favor of skills-based, day-one readiness.  The Cyber RAP directly answers Secretary Hegseth’s mandate for hands-on, experiential learning—reinforcing his directive that "policies don't drive transformation; people do." By creating a robust, non-traditional talent pipeline, this program equips the American workforce to deliver on the President's vision of “peace through strength” and ensures the U.S. maintains its decisive technological edge.

“This program is a critical investment in our people and the bedrock of our national security,” said Mrs. Marci McCarthy, DoW CIO Director of External Engagements. “The Cyber RAP provides a direct pathway for dedicated individuals to join our mission, securing the vital networks, infrastructure, and weapon systems that our Warfighters depend on every single day.”

Program Overview & Summer 2026 Launch

Launching as a pilot in the Summer of 2026, the 12-month paid marks a significant first step in energizing the Department’s commitment to workforce innovation and rapidly delivering leading-edge expertise to the warfighter. The program delivers a competency-based curriculum that blends online learning with immersive labs and on-the-job training. Mentored by senior DoW cyber experts, apprentices will master critical, hands-on skills in security operations, network defense, ethical hacking, and AI-driven cyber threat analysis.

Key features of the DoW Cyber RAP include:

• Structured Career Pathways: Prepares participants for vital, high-demand roles, including Cyber Defense Analyst, Cyber Defense Infrastructure Support Specialist, and Cyber Defense Incident Responder.
• Industry-Recognized Certifications: Equips apprentices with valuable, in-demand credentials to accelerate their careers and enhance DoW operational efficiency.
• Direct Placement: Offers the opportunity for conversion into a permanent cyber position within the Department of War upon successful completion.
• Continued Education: Provides graduates pathways to earn cyber-related degrees through the DoW Cyber Service Academy, ensuring long-term growth and mission contribution.

Please direct any questions to Pentagon Press Operations: osd.pa.dutyofficer@mail.mil.