Ep. 164 From Military to Cloud: How Veterans Are Breaking Into Tech for Free

In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Gregory Henson, founder of Cloud Veterans and former tech CEO, and Philip Lukaszonas, a U.S. Army veteran and manager of customer success at Ingram Micro to discuss how they are helping veterans build careers in cloud technology.

Greg and Philip share the origin story behind Cloud Veterans—a nonprofit initiative built to solve a major gap in the hiring pipeline: talented veterans with the right mindset but lacking access to training, certifications, and guidance to enter the tech industry. Drawing from Greg’s experience scaling a global Microsoft partner and Philip’s own challenging transition out of the military, they unpack how Cloud Veterans is bridging that gap through free, structured, and community-driven training.

The conversation dives into the realities many veterans face when transitioning, especially those from non-technical or combat arms backgrounds, and how programs like this are designed to meet them exactly where they are. From foundational certifications to advanced cloud pathways, Cloud Veterans provides not just training, but mentorship, accountability, and a lifelong support network.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Breaking into cloud and tech careers with zero prior experience
• Translating military skills like discipline, adaptability, and problem-solving into the corporate world
• Overcoming imposter syndrome and intimidation around tech roles
• The importance of community, mentorship, and accountability in career transitions
• How hands-on labs, certifications, and real-world prep accelerate job readiness
• Leveraging AI tools to enhance job search, preparation, and long-term career growth
• Why tech careers, especially in cloud, remain resilient in the age of AI

Greg and Philip also share their bold vision for scaling Cloud Veterans to serve thousands of veterans annually, while maintaining a 100% free, volunteer-driven model supported by corporate sponsors. Their mission is clear: empower veterans and their spouses with the tools, training, and confidence needed to thrive in tech, and continue serving in new ways beyond the uniform.

Whether you're a transitioning service member, a veteran exploring new career paths, or someone looking to break into tech, this episode offers practical guidance, inspiration, and a clear roadmap to get started.

🔗 Learn more about Cloud Veterans → cloudveterans.org
🔗 Connect with TheMilVet → themilvet.org

🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for more conversations empowering veterans to win after service.

#Veterans #MilitaryTransition #TechCareers #CloudComputing #Leadership #CareerGrowth #Reskilling #AI #ServiceAfterService #TheMilVetPodcast

Thanks for listening!

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