22 y/o with 3 years of IT experience + Security+ trying to get an Air Force Reserve cyber job / realistic chances
I’m 22 years old and currently working in IT for a county government. I started as an intern and now have about 3 years of experience total. I’ve worked help desk, inventory audits across multiple sites, and had some exposure to cloud/security related issues. I’m also taking cybersecurity classes, already have my CompTIA Security+ certification, and I’ll be finishing my college degree this December.
I also did a semester of Air Force JROTC in high school.
I’m looking into joining the Air Force Reserve specifically, and I’m planning to go in with my buddies through the buddy program. I understand that will affect job selection and timelines, but the plan is to sign up together and wait while I finish school.
My biggest issue right now is math. I’m relearning times tables and long division because I wasn’t strong at math growing up. Reading/verbal is probably my strongest area, and I’m naturally good with computers/electronics/troubleshooting.
I’ve been looking at Air Force cyber jobs like:
- Cyber Defense
- Network Systems
- Client Systems
- Cyber Warfare
From what I understand:
- AFQT matters a lot
- cyber jobs are competitive
- line scores matter too
- experience helps but doesn’t override ASVAB requirements
I’ve heard most cyber applicants score around 50–80+ AFQT.
My questions are:
- Realistically, how much does prior IT experience + Security+ + a degree help for Air Force Reserve cyber jobs?
- Does any of my experience actually matter during the enlistment/job selection process or is it mostly just ASVAB scores?
- Has anyone gotten into cyber while still improving their math foundation?
- What AFQT range should I realistically aim for to have a good shot?
- Any advice for improving ASVAB math fast without burning out?
I’m trying to figure out if I’m more competitive than I think or if I still have a long way to go.
If anyone has experience with Air Force Reserve cyber or military IT in general and doesn’t mind talking more in depth, feel free to DM me and we can talk on Discord too.
Also if your recruiter from the DMV area and want the best interest in your applicants DM me