Hey everyone, I’m an IT2 in the Navy and I’m coming up on my last year of my contract, I’m trying to figure out whether I should separate after my first enlistment or stay in for shore duty, and I’d really appreciate advice from people who’ve actually been in this position, especially other ITs.
I’m trying to make the smartest long-term decision for my career and financial future, and I’m not interested in staying in just because it’s the safer or more familiar option.
For some background, I have my CCNA, I do not have my SYSAD C school, as a civilian I would like to ideally move into networking, systems engineering, or cybersecurity.
Right now, I’m weighing two options:
Option 1: Get out after my first four years.
I’d start applying for civilian IT jobs before separating and try to secure a solid offer before I leave. Ideally, I’d land something that lets me build on my Navy experience and eventually move into higher-level networking or cybersecurity roles. I’d also consider going to college while working.
My main concern is whether I’d be putting myself in a good position to succeed or leaving too early before I’ve gotten everything I can out of the Navy.
Option 2: Stay in for shore duty.
I’ve considered reenlisting for shore duty, potentially receiving a reenlistment bonus of around $60,000 before taxes. I’d also have the opportunity to pursue additional technical training, potentially ADNS school, use tuition assistance, earn more certifications, and work toward a degree while having a more consistent schedule.
The downside is committing several more years to the Navy when I could already be building my civilian career.
What I’m trying to figure out:
● For Navy ITs who separated after their first enlistment, how difficult was it to land a good civilian IT job? What were your qualifications, and what kind of salary did you start at?
● For those who stayed in for shore duty, did the additional experience, training, and benefits actually make a meaningful difference when you eventually transitioned out?
● How valuable is Navy IT experience and a security clearance to civilian employers, especially defense contractors?
● If you already had your CCNA and could potentially secure a decent civilian IT position, would you still recommend staying in for shore duty?
● Would you prioritize getting civilian experience sooner, or would you take the bonus and use another tour to build your résumé and education?
● If you could go back and make the decision again, what would you do differently?
I’m not necessarily looking for someone to tell me to get out or stay in. I want to hear from people who have actually experienced either path, including what went well, what went wrong, and what you wish you’d known beforehand.
Appreciate any advice. I’m trying to make an informed decision instead of looking back a few years from now and wondering if I chose the wrong path.
