For many veterans transitioning out of the military, the path to a second career often leads to fields like cybersecurity, leveraging skills in discipline, risk assessment, and strategic thinking, but could a military musician do it too?. For Jonathan Sproule, his journey took a truly unique route—from a professional musician in the Band of the Welsh Guards to a specialist in cyber risk and governance. His story is one of adaptability, ambition, and a relentless pursuit of learning.
From Euphonium to Encryption: A Military Musician’s Life
Jonathan spent his military career in one of the most prestigious ceremonial bands in the British Army, performing at state occasions like Trooping the Colour and touring internationally. As a euphonium player, he was part of a tradition of excellence, bringing music to military and royal events.
While this career might seem worlds apart from cybersecurity, Jonathan highlights that many of the skills developed as a musician—discipline, attention to detail, adaptability, and teamwork—translate well into the cyber industry.
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The Decision to Leave: A Leap of Faith
Despite his love for music, Jonathan knew that his career in the military wouldn’t last forever. The turning point came with a combination of personal and professional factors—most notably, meeting his now-wife in Northern Ireland. Flying back and forth frequently, he eventually decided to relocate permanently. But making such a transition required careful planning.
“I saw too many people leave the forces unprepared,” Jonathan recalls. “I wanted to get ahead of the game, so I started looking into different industries early.”
A Magazine Article Sparks a New Career Path
Jonathan’s first exposure to cybersecurity came by chance—while sitting in a London coffee shop, flipping through a magazine. One article highlighted Northern Ireland’s growing reputation as a cybersecurity hub, and it caught his attention. He dug deeper, researching the field, the required skills, and the job opportunities available.
“I scratched the surface, and then I dove down the rabbit hole,” he says. “The more I read, the more I knew this was the path for me.”
Training for a Cyber Career
Rather than jumping in blindly, Jonathan took a strategic and methodical approach to his career change. He sought out training opportunities, including a cybersecurity transition program run by Protection Group International (PGI) in Bristol. The intensive 14-week course was structured like a basic training programme for cyber skills—offering industry certifications and hands-on experience, as well as job placement opportunities with private sector companies.
Through the programme, Jonathan landed his first cybersecurity role with DXC Technology, a major IT services company.
Finding His Niche in Cybersecurity
With so many different specialisations within cybersecurity—ranging from penetration testing to forensic analysis—Jonathan took the time to identify where his strengths and interests lay. He gravitated towards cyber risk governance, a field focused on risk management, security frameworks, and regulatory compliance.
“I liked the logical aspect of cyber risk,” he explains. “It’s about asking the right questions, understanding objectivity vs. subjectivity, and providing clear guardrails for security operations.”
Jonathan also became passionate about Cyber Risk Quantification (CRQ) and FAIR methodology, areas that help organisations measure and manage their cyber risks more effectively.
Giving Back: Mentorship and TechVets
Jonathan credits much of his successful transition to the support and mentorship he received. Now, he’s paying it forward by mentoring other veterans looking to break into cybersecurity. Through TechVets, a UK-based programme of the Forces Employment Charity that helps ex-military personnel transition into tech careers, he provides guidance and support to those making the leap.
“I know the questions they’re asking because I asked them myself,” he says. “I make sure they have access to the right resources, training programmes, and industry connections.”
Lessons for Veterans Transitioning into Cybersecurity
For military personnel considering a move into cybersecurity, Jonathan offers practical advice:
✔ Start Early – Research your options long before you leave the military.
✔ Find Your Passion – Cybersecurity is broad; focus on an area that genuinely interests you.
✔ Build a Strong CV – A well-structured resume can open doors.
✔ Leverage TechVets Training Programmes – Courses like CompTIA Security+ and Network+ are solid foundations.
✔ Network, Network, Network – Engage with professionals, attend events, and join platforms like TechVets.
✔ Get Hands-On Experience – Contribute to security initiatives within your unit, volunteer for cyber projects, or use platforms like Hack The Box and TryHackMe.
Still a Musician at Heart
Despite his career change, Jonathan hasn’t left music behind. He continues to play the euphonium, performing as a reservist with the Royal Irish Regiment Band in Northern Ireland.
“It’s part of who I am,” he says. “Cybersecurity is my career, but music will always be my passion.”
A Future in Cybersecurity
Today, Jonathan is a cybersecurity professional making a difference in the industry, proving that unconventional backgrounds can lead to extraordinary careers. His journey from military musician to cyber risk expert is a testament to adaptability, lifelong learning, and the power of seizing opportunities.
For those considering a leap into cybersecurity, Jonathan’s story is proof that the skills gained in the military—regardless of your role—can provide a strong foundation for success in the digital world.
