Helping veterans while addressing tech skills shortages

Microsoft has partnered with ICT training provider Lumify to deliver the latest cohort of the Microsoft Software and Systems Academy (MSSA).

The 17-week intensive MSSA program equips veterans with technology skills and is designed to help them overcome the challenges faced in transitioning from military service to civilian employment.

MSSA Australia offers specialisations in either Cloud Application Development (CAD) or Server & Cloud Administration (SCA), two key skill sets required for today’s growing technology industry. In addition to its technical curriculum, the course offers a variety of professional development opportunities, enabling participants to engage with industry mentors and providing guidance in career planning and skills development.

With 260,000 more people required to enter Australia’s technology workforce by 2025, veterans represent an untapped source of potential for Australian organisations facing skills shortages. With the right support and training opportunities, veterans can thrive in technology-focused roles.

Veteran and former MSSA participant Matt Spencer completed the program in 2022, recently taking a position at Microsoft as a software engineer following his 14-year career in the Australian Defence Force.

Spencer said the biggest challenge the course helped him overcome was understanding how the corporate side of business works in comparison to the rigid structures and career paths of military life.

“Understanding how to market yourself on platforms like LinkedIn and write a strong resume is really useful. It was a lot to learn in a short time, but having other people on the course going through the same issues really helped. The instructors showed great interest in passing on all their knowledge and the practical activities helped me grasp the theory. One of the most valuable skills I acquired was proficiency in Git, an open-source version control system used for source code management, which can be used in tandem with Azure DevOps, object-orientated programming and the basics of syntax,” he said.

According to the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, the ADF has averaged a separation rate of 8–10% over recent years. This translates to a loss of 5000–6000 people per year, many of whom are already trained and highly skilled.

“Programs like the MSSA can mutually meet the needs of veterans and employers — on the one hand, veterans benefit greatly from assistance in transitioning into corporate career paths, and on the other hand, Australian organisations suffering acute skills shortages benefit from a new pool of skilled workers. We are extremely proud to be delivering this program hand in hand with Microsoft and making a difference to the lives of veterans, while tackling technology skills shortages,” said Jon Lang, CEO of Lumify Group.

Post completion, every student receives an interview with Microsoft or one of its hiring partners, including Fujitsu, Accenture, JP Morgan and Westpac. Spencer was offered a role with Microsoft as a software engineer before finishing the program.

“There are many transferable skills that veterans may not realise apply to the technology industry, such as self-motivation, working across both individual and team environments, and the ability to research effectively. I want to become a mentor for current or ex-serving veterans looking into a career in tech to help them along the journey,” Spencer said.

The MSSA program serves as a reminder to Australia’s technology sector to harness the untapped potential of veterans and other groups re-entering the workforce. More information on the program is available here.

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