Roles that Suit Government Backgrounds
Explore private-sector and nonprofit roles where government experience can be a real asset. This section covers different career paths, what the work actually looks like, and how skills developed in government can carry over into new industries and organizations.
Breaking into philanthropy and foundations can feel anything but straightforward. Drawing on insights from Heather Haines, this field guide explores what government professionals need to know about navigating the sector, from transferable skills and hiring trends to networking, partnerships, and finding roles that aren’t always easy to spot.
I recently sat down with former Chief Privacy Officer Joyce Chen to demystify how privacy operates in modern tech. From the rapid rise of AI governance to effectively translating public sector skills for private sector success, discover how to navigate and break into this rapidly evolving field.
I recently sat down with Chelsea Magnant - Vice President at Breakwater Strategy and former CIA analyst and Google policy lead - to demystify how tech policy works in the private sector. From understanding the difference between public and product policy to translating government experience and pitch-perfecting your search, discover how to position your skills for high-impact tech policy roles.
Transitioning from government to corporate security? Learn how to translate your federal skills into business value with insights from a federal alum and leader in this field.
I recently sat down with Meaghan Dolan from Eagle Hill Consulting to discuss a path many mission-driven leaders consider but few fully understand: boutique consulting. Discover how to shift your mindset from government stewardship to creative problem-solving, translate your public sector experience, and navigate the practical realities of boutique firm culture.
Trust & Safety (T&S) is a natural fit for government professionals looking to continue protecting others in the private sector. In this guide, we break down the tech industry's core T&S functions - from threat intelligence and policy to product and compliance - and outline the specific technical skills you need to land them.
You bring a wealth of transferable skills from your government service, but translating them for a corporate audience can be challenging. In this guide, we break down how to map your background in intelligence, diplomacy, tech, and operations into high-value private sector roles.
I cried on my last day at the CIA. Leaving was my choice, but handing in my badge meant leaving behind an identity I had wrapped myself in for years. Here is what I have learned since about untangling our self-worth from our work, avoiding burnout, and remembering that your job is what you do, not who you are.
Want to get ahead in your career? It takes more than just hard work and strategy - it takes intentional connection. Learn why focusing on the people around you, leading with empathy, and remembering the little things are the true keys to building a reputation that speaks for itself.

