The Mission43 Cybersecurity Academy

Learn about the academy & the scholarship application

Mission43 is proud to partner with SANS Institute to establish a talent pipeline for military veterans and their spouses to obtain skills in cybersecurity that can empower a future career and improve cybersecurity for employers and communities in Idaho.

Over a period of 6 months, selected Mission43 members will have the opportunity to complete 3 GIAC certifications that provide the highest and most rigorous assurance of cybersecurity knowledge. Successful Academy participants receive a full scholarship, academic and technical mentorship, and career services valued at over $20k.

This is a multi-stage program designed to provide a reliable pathway for high-potential veterans and military spouses to enter the cybersecurity workforce.

A valued partnership with sans institute

SANS’ ongoing mission is to empower cybersecurity professionals with the practical skills and knowledge they need to make our world a safer place. SANS is the issuing body of GIAC certifications, which are the highest standard in cyber certifications.

When working with cyber employers to build a program to meet their needs, the resounding feedback was that professionals that hold GIAC certifications are amongst the most knowledgable, prepared, and respected experts in their fields. We know that there are many certifying bodies out there offering information security credentials, but SANS GIAC certifications are proven to thoroughly validate a practitioner’s abilities and likelihood of success in a real-world work environment.

The Mission43 Cybersecurity Academy isn’t just theory, it’s a path with direct correlation to employment in Idaho.

Am I Eligible?

It’s our goal to introduce new cybersecurity talent into the civilian and Federal workforce. The ideal candidate for this program is:

• A registered Mission43 member (military member, Post-9/11 veteran, or spouse). If you are not a member yet, join today!

• Actively seeking to transition from the military and/or committed to make a career change within the next year and plan on residing in Idaho.

• Passionate about cybersecurity with the ability to prove aptitude.

• A self-starter with the drive and motivation to complete coursework in an unsupervised environment within the given time window.

There is no degree requirement to be eligible to participate in this program, and it is designed for working adults that need the flexibility of attending part-time, online, with the support that you would expect from an in-person learning environment.

participants are set up for success

Mission43 will scholarship selected participants to complete 3, 8-week course blocks, designed to be completed in 6 months. 

Every participant will progress through the same first two certifications, establishing foundational knowledge and practices. From there, successful course participants will work with their advisor to identify their specialty, choosing an elective that coincides with their desired industry path and open job roles in Idaho.

Currently, the top unfilled roles include: Information security analysts, penetration testers, security engineers, information assurance managers, and vulnerability management specialists.

Throughout the 3 course blocks, you will have regular advising check-ins, learning support, and technical mentorship from SANS. You will also have access to a curated local mentorship network to set you up for follow-on career success.

Here is a description of each course block:

• First Block - Foundations of IT and Cybersecurity (GFACT Certification): SEC275 Foundations - Computers, Technology, & Security provides exactly what you need to go from zero technical and security knowledge to a level of sufficient theoretical understanding and applied practical skills that will enable you to speak the same language as industry professionals.

• Second Block - Core Cyber Defense Skills (GSEC Certification): SEC401 Security Essentials: Network, Endpoint, and Cloud will provide the essential information security skills and techniques you need to protect and secure your critical information and technology assets, whether on-premise or in the cloud. SEC401 will also show you how to directly apply the concepts learned into a winning defensive strategy, all in the terms of the modern adversary. This is how we fight; this is how we win!

• Third Block - Professional Elective (choose 1 certification path)

  • GSOC Certification: SEC 450 Blue Team Fundamentals - Security Operations and Analysis designed by Security Analysts, for Security Analysts. SEC450 will get you hands-on with the tools and techniques required to stop advanced cyberattacks! Whether you are a part of a full SOC in a large organization, a small security ops group, or an MSSP responsible for protecting customers, SEC450 will teach you and your team the critical skills for understanding how to defend a modern organization.

  • GEVA Certification: SEC460 Enterprise and Cloud | Threat and Vulnerability Assessment begins with an introduction to information security vulnerability assessment fundamentals, followed by in-depth coverage of the Vulnerability Assessment Framework. It then moves into the structural components of a dynamic and iterative information security program. Through detailed practical analysis of threat intelligence, modeling, and automation, students will learn the skills necessary to not only use the tools of the trade, but also to implement a transformational security vulnerability assessment program.

  • GCED Certification: SEC501 Advanced Security Essentials - Enterprise Defender PREVENT. DETECT. RESPONSE. Effective cybersecurity is more important than ever as attacks become stealthier, have a greater financial impact, and cause broad reputational damage. This course provides a solid foundation of core policies and practices to enable individuals and security teams to defend their enterprise.

  • GCIH Certification: SEC504 Hacker Tools, Techniques, and Incident Handling helps you develop the skills to conduct incident response investigations. You will learn how to apply a dynamic incident response process to evolving cyber threats, and how to develop threat intelligence to mount effective defense strategies for cloud and on-premises platforms.

The Application Process

During open application windows, eligible Mission43 members can apply to the current cohort by visiting our events page. Applicants can expect:

1. Fill out the initial Mission43 intake form,

2. Connect with a Mission43 Education Specialist for a qualitative interview,

3. If selected to proceed, take aptitude exam issued by SANS (2 hours),

4. Final approvals and selections are made and applicants are notified of status.

Still have questions? Contact us today!

Are you a Mission43 member interested in learning more about cybersecurity? An employer looking to expand their talent pool and fill roles with qualified course participants? Reach out to us today and an education specialist will respond soon!

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Addressing an Idaho Need: Introducing the Mission43 Cybersecurity Academy

Mission43 Launches a New Cybersecurity Certification Pathway in Partnership with SANS Institute

Mission43 is proud to partner with SANS Institute to establish a talent pipeline for military veterans and their spouses to obtain skills in cybersecurity that can empower a future career and improve cybersecurity for employers and communities in Idaho.

Over a period of 6 months, selected Mission43 members will have the opportunity to complete 3 GIAC certifications that provide the highest and most rigorous assurance of cybersecurity knowledge. Successful Academy participants receive a full scholarship, academic and technical mentorship, and career services valued at over $20k.

This is a multi-stage program designed to provide a reliable pathway for high-potential veterans and military spouses to enter the cybersecurity workforce.

“It’s our goal to provide Idaho’s exceptional veterans and their spouses with equally exceptional opportunities to advance their quality of life and employment options after the military. These are the programs that make it happen.”

— Alison Garrow, Education Pillar Director

The first cohort will launch in November 2022, with applications opening July 2022. The ideal candidate to participate in the first cohort is a transitioning military member, veteran, or spouse that is active in the Mission43 community, plans to make a career change within the next year, has an aptitude and passion for the cybersecurity industry, and has little to no civilian Information Technology experience.

demand for idaho-based cyber professionals

The cybersecurity field continues to experience a wide talent gap. Growth in opportunities have leveled nationwide but here in Idaho, an exponential increase in demand for qualified personnel persists (according to a 2020 report released by the Idaho Department of Labor).

Cyber opportunities in Idaho have grown by at least 160% since 2015, grew by 28% in 2020, and continue to rise. For transitioning service members, veterans, and their spouses interested in making a career change, right now is the perfect time to consider a career in cyber/information security.

Sourced from Idaho Department of Labor

aptitude and certifications lead to employment

With major industries like aerospace, agriculture, defense, energy, and manufacturing, Idaho is well positioned to maintain its increasing need for cybersecurity professionals. The real struggle, however, is finding the talent to fill those open positions.

Employers that would have traditionally sought out employees with college degrees are relaxing their recruiting requirements. The right combination of aptitude and professional certification(s) can open doors to entry-to-mid level positions with some of the highest earning potential currently in the market.

Whether you’re a military spouse or a transitioning military member, you know what it’s like to have to start over. Sometimes a new career field can mean a critical blow to your family finances. We’ve been there. Entry level cybersecurity salaries are trending much higher than other industries. In June 2022, the average starting salary for cybersecurity related jobs in Idaho was about $62k annually, with the majority ranging between $43k and $78k. There is unlimited potential for skills advancement and increased pay.

Table view of reported entry-level cyber/information security wage range in Idaho, sourced from ZipRecruiter, 2022

Building a Program Idaho Employers need

There are many different areas of cybersecurity and finding a direct path from unemployed to hired can be confusing. We’ve consulted with industry-leading experts from organizations like Mandiant and PlexTrac to identify the biggest talent gaps in Idaho and what type of skills employers are looking for to fill those roles.

“The Mission43 Cybersecurity Certification Course isn’t just theory, it’s a certification path with a direct correlation to employment in Idaho. ”

— Alison Garrow, Education Pillar Director

Currently in Idaho, the top unfilled cybersecurity roles include: Information security analysts, penetration testers, security engineers, information assurance managers, and vulnerability management specialists.

It’s our goal to make a measurable impact on the talent shortage in cyber across the state of Idaho.

COntact us to learn more!

Are you a Mission43 member interested in learning more about cybersecurity? An employer looking to expand their talent pool and fill roles with qualified course participants? Reach out to us today and an education specialist will respond soon!

Cybersecurity: Free Education Opportunities for Military

Interested in a lucrative career in cybersecurity?

Free Education Opportunities for Military

Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that cybersecurity is one of the fastest growing career fields in the nation, with a 0% unemployment rate and median salary upwards of $90k in Idaho.

With statistics like that, it’s understandable that careers in the cybersecurity field are highly attractive for transitioning military members and spouses. Moreover, members of the military community are often a natural fit because of their aptitude for problem solving, attention to detail, and ability to learn and adapt quickly.

If you’re thinking about a career in this field, most employers prefer at least a Bachelor’s degree, along with a number of other industry standard certifications. While the income potential is great, you may want to consider maximizing your VA education benefits, as you’ll periodically need to renew or obtain a certification. The options below are free to eligible military members, veterans, and military spouses, and can help launch a lucrative career in cybersecurity.

MISSION43 CYBERSECURITY ACADEMY WITH SANS INSTITUTE

Through a partnership with SANS Institute, one of the most prestigious cybersecurity training and certification providers in the industry, we are supporting eligible members through a series of certifications, preparing them to meet the needs of the Idaho cybersecurity job market with an estimated average entry-level salary of over $60k annually. Mission43 will provide full scholarships to selected participants. SANS reports that 90% of graduates land new jobs in cybersecurity within 6 months of program completion. It’s our goal to introduce new cybersecurity talent into the civilian and Federal workforce. The ideal candidate for this program is:

Free education options

Federal Virtual Training Environment (FedVTE) is a partnership between the Department of Homeland Security and Hire our Heroes to offer free, online cybersecurity training and certification prep courses like Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

CyberCorps®: Scholarship for Service (SFS) Program offers cybersecurity scholarships to outstanding undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students of up to $34,000 to cover costs at a participating institution. In return for financial support, participants must agree to work for the U.S. Government, in a cybersecurity related field, for a period of time matching the length of the scholarship. In Idaho, students can attend either the University of Idaho or Idaho State University.

Cisco Veterans Cyber Scholarship Program, in partnership with CyberVetsUSA, provides free online cybersecurity training and certifications to transitioning service members, guard/reserve, veterans, and military spouses. The training is self-paced and usually takes 12-14 weeks to complete. Foundational IT/networking experience is recommended.

Onward to Opportunity is a partnership between the Institute for Veterans and Military Families and Syracuse University. O2O is a free program for transitioning military members and military spouses that offers industry standard certifications in areas like customer service, information technology, and business management. O2O courses are offered online for members in Idaho, and include some of the most sought-after certifications: CompTIA A+. Security+, CASP+, SSCP, CISSP, and many more!

Second Watch, created by Palo Alto Networks, believes that veterans have intrinsic skills needed in the cybersecurity arena. The program features 9 self-paced steps that guide you through digital learning courses, leading to free Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Administrator (PCNSA) and Palo Alto Networks Certified Cybersecurity (PCCSA) exams. Veterans can also take free courses leading to the (paid) Palo Alto Networks Certified Security Engineer (PCNSE) exam.

SANS VetSuccess Immersion Academy: If you already have a degree and/or some experience in information technology, information security, or audit from military service, this free SANS immersion might be right for you. Eligible transitioning service members and active duty spouses can complete up to three SANS courses and industry-leading certifications. Candidates must meet Academy requirements and submit an application, online assessment, and personal interview.

Skills gap in Idaho

The options above are great resources for all skill levels, but especially for those looking to stack their skills for marketability. Taking advantage of one or more of these opportunities can lead to a promising career in a short amount of time, as there is currently a high need for web and Java developers in Idaho and not enough graduates to fill open job positions.

If you’re new to the information security/cybersecurity field, it’s a good idea to establish your career goals and build your education plan accordingly. Local tech recruiters suggest that having a Bachelor’s degree in computer science can not only open more employment doors, but also lead to a $10+ an hour wage increase.

Education Discovery Series: CyberSecurity

Connect to learn more about Cybersecurity program options

Mission43 PMP Certification Course

Project Management Professional Certification Course for Transitioning Military, Veterans, and Spouses

Take your military experience and transition into project management

By 2027, the Project Management Institute estimates employers will need 87.7 million skilled workers in project-management oriented roles. Meanwhile, the shortage of qualified talent poses a notable risk for organizations that rely on that talent to implement strategic initiatives, drive change, and deliver innovation. 

Transitioning military members, veterans, and spouses are ideal candidates for the project management profession; military experience translates to project management success. Leading cross-functional teams to ensure accomplishment of mission objectives, managing budgets and scheduling activities, conflict mediation and performance appraisal are all key project management proficiencies.

With your experience and a Project Management Institute (PMI) credential, you can distinguish yourself to potential employers and open doors to new opportunities.

Launching your career

There is currently a high demand for skilled project managers in Idaho. With an increase in jobs requiring project-oriented skills and a widening gap of available talent due to an aging workforce, a career in project management is more achievable than you might think. 

If you think this sounds like a career-fit for you, consider taking these steps: 

• Inventory and translate your skills - a lot of military experience qualifies as project management experience. Action officer, training officer, operations planner, commander, platoon sergeant… sound like you? These are just a few military job titles that correlate to civilian project management. Much of project management is going to fall into five process groups, including initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, and closing. Work with the Mission43 employment team to translate your skills into terminology recognized in the project management field and create a resumé that makes sense to employers.

• Explore Project Management sectors - There’s a wide range of industries and organizations seeking project managers in Idaho. If construction comes to mind when you think of project management, you’re right! However, project managers are needed in almost every sector, including safety, technology, healthcare, government, energy, manufacturing, hospitality, and more! This can be an incredible opportunity to match your skills and passion. 

• Grow your network - Join your local Project Management Institute chapter, like PMI Western Idaho. Network among industry professionals or other military-connected project managers. Use LinkedIn to your advantage to discover people who can help you determine if project management is the right fit for you. 

• Get certified - Earning a professional certification can increase earning potential in upwards of 25% and gives you a competitive edge in the job market. For those with experience and competence in leading project teams, the Project Management Professional, PMP, credential is the most important globally-recognized and independently validated certification for project managers.

Earn your PMP Certification with Mission43

Mission43 has partnered with Pinnacle Professional Development, LLC to provide a free Project Management Professional Certification course to select Mission43 members. 

Pinnacle Professional Development is a PMI authorized training partner, meaning they have access to exclusive training content from the Project Management Institute. With a veteran team and over 20 years of adult education experience, Pinnacle provides a meaningful classroom experience with the tools and resources needed to successfully earn your PMP certification. 

Selected applicants will receive a scholarship covering the full cost of the 4-day, 35 hour course and one testing voucher, valued at over $3,000.

To find out when applications are open or to learn more about this program, contact a Mission43 education pillar advisor today!

Completing your Community College of the Air Force Degree with Boise State University

Airmen have the option to complete their CCAF Associate degree online, with the support of Boise State University.

CCAF Explained

The Community College of the Air Force degree is an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program, where Airmen receive credit for military training and can complete general education requirements to earn a degree that is associated with their Air Force Specialty Code.

BMT + Tech School + PME + General Education = CCAF

This program is a unique opportunity for Air Force members, and the Community College of the Air Force is the only degree-granting higher learning institution exclusively dedicated to enlisted personnel. Generally speaking, Airmen will earn 49 credits through military training, and are required to complete an additional 15 general education credits in areas of oral/written communication (6), mathematics (3), social science (3), and humanities (3).

The Air Force partners with civilian learning institutions to satisfy the general education requirements to maintain regional accreditation compliance. However, when the degree is granted, it is awarded through the Community College of the Air Force, not the institution the student attends to complete the general education credits.

General Education Mobile

The General Education Mobile, GEM, model is a partnership between CCAF and pre-approved partner colleges where Airmen can take online general education courses that transfer credit to CCAF. There are currently only about 125 approved GEM institutions nationwide.

Boise State is the only institution in Idaho that has the GEM partnership with CCAF.

This partnership allows Airmen the flexibility to complete their CCAF AAS degree online, anytime, anywhere. GEM is delivered via AFVEC. For more information on GEM, visit the Air Force Virtual Education Center.

CLEP Testing

Prior to taking college classes, Airmen should consider using College-Level Examination Program, CLEP, tests to earn college credit for what they already know. Each military installation will usually have a testing center hosted by a civilian learning provider.

On Mountain Home Air Force Base, Boise State University hosts the testing center.

Boise State advisors highly recommend that eligible service members make an appointment to test at Mountain Home AFB. There are over 30 test options across areas of electives, mathematics, communication, humanities, social sciences, leadership, and computer science. Airmen have the option to take each test once, for free.

Passing scores fulfill both CCAF and Boise State course requirements, and test scores are automatically recorded on the CCAF transcripts. Airmen could potentially pass a CLEP test for each required general education course, meaning they could earn their AAS degree without having to take a college class.

Getting Started

Mission43 and Boise State are working together to make it easier for every Airman in Idaho to earn their CCAF.

To get started, visit the Mission43 Boise State Toolkit and request more information. A member of the Boise State Military Programs Team will reach out directly to assist you in going through the process.

Military members are also required to complete a TA-101 briefing to ensure their TA eligibility as well as connect with an Air Force education counselor. For members at Mountain Home AFB, you can find answers to FAQs here or email ed.center@us.af.mil for information on TA briefings and connecting with a base education counselor.

Members will also want to ensure that they order their CCAF transcripts either through AFVEC (must access through a .mil network) or Credentials Solutions. If ordering through AFVEC, keep in mind that it could take up to 4 weeks for the college to receive them, so allow yourself a bit of flexibility when applying and starting courses. They can also be 3-day expedited through FedEx, for a fee, by using the Credentials Solutions option.

Taking Online Classes at Boise State

If an Airman gets to the point that they need (or want) to take classes to complete their degree, there are quite a few options available in each of the general education areas required to satisfy CCAF degree completion.

Most courses are accelerated, 7-week classes. Since a normal semester is 15 weeks, members enrolled in Online Degree Pathway GEM courses tend to have a week break between classes.

Airmen can expect to spend up to 20 hrs per week on course work to be successful. While these classes are designed with the working adult in mind, military members often need a bit more flexibility. Boise State advisors suggest taking no more than one class at a time, keeping an open line of communication between faculty and advisors, and preparing for those times when more flexibility is needed.

We know it can be difficult being in the military and trying to take classes sometimes. We’re here to support you through that.

Before applying, visit the Mission43 Boise State toolkit and request more information. Eligible military members can receive a code to waive the application fee.

Using Tuition Assistance

Eligible military members have access to Federal Tuition Assistance, which provides up to $250 per credit hour, up to $4500 per year.

Through Boise State’s TA Promise program, eligible military members enrolled in the online degree pathway GEM courses, using Tuition Assistance, automatically receive a scholarship, reducing their price per credit hour from $350 to $250, meaning zero out-of-pocket tuition cost to complete the CCAF AAP.

Free Tutoring and Support

Going to college for the first time can be scary, especially for those who have spent several years focusing on their military career. For many Airmen, the last time they actively talked about college was high school.

It’s ok to ask for help! You don’t have to do this alone!

Boise State is home to a unique program through TRIO, Veterans Upward Bound, which provides free tutoring and assessment services prior to getting started. This is a free service for military members who have never been to college, or have had a long break between learning experiences.

Airmen can receive one-on-one tutoring in areas like math and English to be better prepared for success in their GEM classes. For more Veterans Upward Bound information, contact Project Director Mario Pile at mariopile@boisestate.edu.

CCAF to AU-ABC

One of the most beneficial opportunities Airmen have after completing their CCAF is the option to complete a Bachelor’s degree in 60 credits or less through the Air University Associate to Baccalaureate Cooperative, AU-ABC.

With Boise State’s AU-ABC partnership, Airmen can apply all of their CCAF transfer credits to a Bachelor’s of Applied Science, Bachelor’s of Business Management, or a BA in Public Health.

This means Airmen can earn their Associate and Bachelor’s degrees in less time than it takes the traditional student to earn just one degree!

The CCAF isn’t just for career airmen looking to promote. With zero out of pocket tuition costs, it is an effective and efficient way for every airman to advance their military and civilian employment opportunities.

want to learn more?

COnnect with the M43 Education Advisor and Get Started on Your CCAF Degree

Mission43's Entrepreneur Course for Veterans and Military Spouses

Everything you need to know about the Mission43 Entrepreneur Course

Take your business idea to the next level

Mission43’s flagship Entrepreneur Course was created with risk takers in mind. You have the idea, we have the connections. This course, in partnership with the Boise State University Venture College, challenges Mission43 members to grow their business or nonprofit idea, and provides the tools needed to take concepts and turn them into actionable steps.

In each cohort, members are immersed in fast-paced, interactive material with an exclusive peer group of veterans, service members, and military spouses. The instructors aren’t just teaching theory, they’re experienced entrepreneurs who take participants through a step-by-step process that makes sense.

The scholarship & commitment

We’re looking for motivated veterans, service members, and military spouses who either have a business idea or a budding business, and are excited to challenge themselves, test their ideas, and actively contribute to the rest of the cohort.

Mission43 members who apply and are selected will receive a $1000 scholarship that covers the full cost of the 6-week course.

Whether selected for an in-person or virtual scholarship, we ask that participants commit to attend the two, 2-hour sessions each week of the program. At the conclusion of the twelve sessions, you’ll put it all together and pitch your idea to local leaders in the business and entrepreneur community, potentially opening doors you didn’t know existed!

What does the course cover?

The Mission43 Entrepreneur Course curriculum is tailored to our military community members. We aren’t just providing instruction, there are real-world opportunities to connect with key-players in the community, sharing your business idea and growing your network of resources. The connections you make in this course can be essential as your business develops.

The “Lean Startup” Methodology

There is a strong distinction between “can you build this product” and “should you build this product?” The course kicks off with the Lean Startup approach, which focuses on the latter. It’s not a rigid business plan, it’s a fast-paced process of building, measuring, and learning to help you accelerate your idea.

Value Proposition

What problem needs to be solved? This question is the foundation of why you want to be an entrepreneur. This early phase of the course is always fun, as it is the first time many participants have had to articulate their idea to a group of relative strangers. The interaction, feedback, and support are paramount as you learn about each other’s business and begin to grow as a Mission43 Entrepreneurs cohort.

The Customer Discovery Process

You don’t want to spend a ton of money or time bringing your product to market without ever talking to a potential customer. You’ll discover why interviewing potential customers is crucial to your value proposition, learn best practices for customer discovery, and practice interviewing potential customers while asking the appropriate questions.

Your MVP, or Minimum Viable Product

After you address the problem that needs to be solved (your value proposition), we’ll jump into learning exactly what an MVP is, and then you’ll develop your own MVP. You’ll learn how to create measurable goals using the Test Card as you get more comfortable with the Lean Startup Methodology.

How to Pivot

The Lean Startup is all about building-measuring-learning, and sometimes that requires a pivot. We’ll define what this is, learn about successful business pivots, and you’ll be prepared and comfortable if or when that is required!

The Business Model Canvas

The Business Model Canvas is composed of nine sections and helps you understand your business in a straightforward and structured way.

Flex Session

Based on the needs and interests of each cohort, the Venture College will conduct a special-topics lesson, often more advanced in nature, supported by a subject-matter-expert guest speaker. This can include things like marketing tactics or how to get investors.

Pitch Preparation

Cohort members have ample opportunity throughout the course to prepare, rehearse, and refine their pitch with peers, instructors, and mentors. By the time pitch night comes around, you’ll be prepared to share your business idea with the greater community!

Pitch Night

The course culminates with pitching your business to local and influential community leaders. It’s a Shark Tank style event and is an incredible opportunity to get expert feedback on your idea. Don’t worry, you’ll be well prepared to knock it out of the park!

Continued Support and Networking

The Entrepreneur Course isn’t just instruction; you’re provided the opportunity to connect face-to-face and network with influential community leaders in a comfortable, social setting. This is your opportunity to share your idea with business professionals and experienced veteran entrepreneurs.

If you are showing that can-do drive and things are accelerating quickly with your business, the Venture College team will stay in your corner to help you succeed. Whether it’s connecting with the right people, pitching your business to new audiences, or just providing the motivation to keep going, the BSU Venture College and Mission43 team are here to help.

We are proud to have had multiple businesses start in the Mission43 Entrepreneur Course! These veterans and military spouses showed up with an idea, and are now profitable and growing Idaho businesses. You could be next… let us assist you in getting started on this journey!

The Boise State University Venture College

The Boise State University Venture College is part of the College of Innovation and Design, which serves as a landing zone for entrepreneurial thinkers to launch their idea outside of the classroom. This is experiential learning at its best.

The Venture College has assisted over 100 students in launching their businesses and nonprofits that have generated millions in revenue and provided job opportunities in Idaho communities.

Start your entrepreneurial journey

If you’re ready to be your own boss, lead, learn, and inspire in your Idaho community, connect with us or learn more below to find out about current course offerings and the application process.

For more information, e-mail alison.garrow@mission43.org

Using Your Gi Bill for Flight School

Guide to using your benefits in Idaho

Depending on your eligibility, you could use Post - 9/11 education benefits to fully fund pilot training.

In order to use a Gi Bill for flight training, the VA requires that you:

1. Qualify for a Post 9/11 Gi Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, or Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP).

2. Have a private pilot’s license, and

3. Have a second-class medical certificate valid for second-class privileges - or a first-class medical certificate if you want to pursue the Airline Transport (ATP) certificate. Click here to search for Aviation Medical Examiners in your area.

The three options for using Gi bill benefits toward flight training

The Post 9/11 Gi Bill (Chapter 33) can be used for Part 141* accredited flight training to get your Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, and can pay for flights, tuition, housing allowance, books, fees, and supplies. 

1. Attend a public university flight program for 100% tuition coverage,

2. Attend a private university and receive up to $24,476.79 annually, or

3. Take part in a non-degree seeking program and receive up to $13,986.72 annually at the time of this post. 

Click here for current Chapter 33 payment rates

*Part 61 programs are not eligible for VA funding

VA approved flight programs in idaho

Treasure Valley Community College in Caldwell, Idaho offers an Aviation Technology - Helicopter AAS degree in partnership with Silverhawk Aviation Academy. This is an FAA accredited, Part 141 program approved for VA education benefits. Members with Post 9/11 benefit eligibility could have up to 100% tuition and fees covered. 

Silverhawk Aviation Academy offers a Part 141 fixed wing, non-degree seeking program. While you would need to obtain your private pilot’s license at your own expense, you could be eligible to receive up to $13,986.72 annually with Post 9/11 benefits.

Which model is right for you?

If you’re having trouble deciding between fixed-wing and rotary, contact Silverhawk Aviation Academy and schedule a discovery flight with a 30-minute ground session and hour flight. This will give you the opportunity to see what the training is like in that airframe, take control of the aircraft with instructor supervision, and you get to account for that time in your log-book when you begin training. 

For more information, click “learn more” below, or connect with Silverhawk Aviation Academy Student Services directly:

Alisha Sweeney

alisha@silverhawkaviation.net

(208) 453-8577  

Aviation Scholarships

AAERO Scholarship Program awards up to $2,500 for aspiring pilots who have not yet received their private pilot’s license. Applications open May 2021.

Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association awards members up to $7,500 for training as a private, sport, or recreational pilot. If you are not an AOPA member, you can get a free 6-month student pilot membership.

Leroy W. Homer Jr. Foundation awards one scholarship a year for people ages 16-23 pursuing professional flight instruction, not through a university, leading to certification as a private pilot. Scholarship applications open October 31st through January 31st. 

Stripes to Bars is a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that assists veterans in their transition to aviation careers. Stripes to Bars provides annual scholarships, nationwide, for fixed-wing and rotary aircraft. Application window is open each year from January 1st to May 15th. Click here for eligibility information and to apply. 

The Ninety-Nines Amelia Earhart Memorial Scholarship Fund for female aviators offers five types of aviation scholarships, to include flight training and emergency maneuver training. 

Women in Aviation: Women Military Aviators Dream Flight Scholarship up to $2,500 awarded to female aviators pursuing flight ratings at an accredited institution or FAA Part 141 approved flight school. 

If you’re thinking about starting a career in aviation and want more information, or are a current aviator and would like to volunteer as a mentor, click “learn more” below to be connected with Mission43’s education advisor today!

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Air Force Tuition Assistance

Using Tuition Assistance for college

The Air Force Tuition Assistance Program will pay up to $250 per credit hour in tuition and a maximum of $3750 each fiscal year.

Complete your CCAF degree for free

Mission43 partners with Boise State University to assist military members in earning their Community College of the Air Force, Associate of Applied Science degree with no out-of-pocket costs. Boise State University’s TA Promise program reduces eligible members’ tuition to $250 per credit hour. Application fees are also waived through BSU Military Programs.

Your degree - anytime, anywhere!

Courses are offered fully online in either a 7- or 15-week format. You could earn your degree in less than a year, choosing from 18 different course options to satisfy the 15 general education (5 course) credit CCAF completion requirement.

Application process for all degree levels

With 6 start-dates a year, it’s even more convenient to complete your degree on your terms.

If you have not attended a TA-101 briefing in the past year, that will be your first step. These are generally held every Thursday at the Education Center. For more information and scheduling, contact (208) 828-6363.

Request official transcripts from all previous institutions, if applicable. You can request your current CCAF transcripts free, online through the Air Force Virtual Education Center. Under Self Service, click “CCAF Student Services,” then “Transcripts,” then click “Order CCAF Transcript.” You’ll want to make sure to have your CCAF/military transcripts reviewed for any education level, to include Bachelor’s and Master’s.

Contact BSU Military Programs prior to starting for an application fee waiver. Apply to Boise State as a degree-seeking, fully-online student. Through Mission43 and Boise State University, you will have an advisor to work with you through this process. Click below to get started.

Visit the Air Force Portal and complete the AFVEC online TA process between 45 and 7 days prior to the first day of course instruction.

After your request has been approved, you will receive notification of approved TA form, and you must send a copy of the approved TA form to the school.

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