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1B172 Career Guide

Air Force

1B172: Cyber Transport Systems Technician

Career transition guide for Air Force Cyber Transport Systems Technician (1B172)

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Civilian Career Pathways

Top civilian roles for 1B172 veterans, with average salary and market demand data.

Network Engineer

$95K
High matchHigh demand

Network Administrator

$82K
High matchHigh demand

Cybersecurity Analyst

$98K
Good matchVery high demand

Skills to develop:

Security certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+, CISSP)Specific cybersecurity tools training

Telecommunications Specialist

$75K
Good matchStable demand

Field Service Technician

$65K
Moderate matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

Vendor-specific certifications (e.g., Cisco, Juniper)Customer service skills

Salary estimates from VWC career data

Hidden Strengths

Cognitive skills your 1B172 training built — and where they transfer.

System Modeling

This role requires a deep understanding of how various network components interact to deliver voice, data, and video services. The technician builds mental models of complex systems to predict behavior and troubleshoot issues effectively.

The ability to create and utilize system models translates directly to understanding complex processes and predicting outcomes in various civilian industries.

Rapid Prioritization

When network outages occur, this role demands quick assessment of the situation to prioritize restoration efforts based on mission criticality and impact, especially under pressure.

The capability to rapidly assess situations and prioritize tasks is invaluable in fast-paced civilian environments where quick decisions are necessary.

Degraded-Mode Operations

The job involves maintaining network functionality even when parts of the system are damaged or unavailable. It requires finding alternative solutions and workarounds to sustain operations under adverse conditions.

Experience in degraded-mode operations showcases an ability to adapt and maintain functionality in challenging situations, a skill highly valued in dynamic and unpredictable civilian environments.

Procedural Compliance

Adhering to strict protocols and procedures is paramount when installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting network systems. Compliance ensures security and interoperability.

Meticulous attention to detail and adherence to procedures demonstrates reliability and commitment to quality, essential traits in regulated industries.

Situational Awareness

Maintaining a broad understanding of the network's overall status, potential threats, and ongoing operations is critical for proactive problem-solving and effective coordination with other teams.

A keen sense of situational awareness allows for anticipating potential issues, adapting to changing circumstances, and making informed decisions in complex civilian scenarios.

Non-Obvious Career Matches

Quality Assurance Analyst

SOC 19-4191

You've been rigorously testing network systems and ensuring compliance with standards. As a Quality Assurance Analyst, you'll use your analytical skills and attention to detail to evaluate products and processes, ensuring they meet quality standards. You're already familiar with identifying faults and implementing corrective actions.

Technical Trainer

SOC 25-9044

You've gained deep expertise in network systems and have experience in training others on installation, maintenance, and repair. As a Technical Trainer, you can leverage your knowledge to develop and deliver training programs for new technologies or processes, helping others develop valuable skills.

Logistics Analyst

SOC 13-2081

You've managed the agile logistics support channels for network operations. As a Logistics Analyst, you'll be responsible for analyzing and coordinating an organization's supply chain. You're adept at tracking and maintaining equipment documents, ensuring smooth operations, and optimizing resource allocation.

Training & Education Equivalencies

Cyber Transport Systems Technical Training, Keesler AFB, MS

1,120 training hours28 weeksUp to 15 semester hours recommended in telecommunications, networking, or information technology

Topics Covered

  • Network Infrastructure Installation and Maintenance
  • Cryptographic Equipment Operation and Repair
  • Voice, Data, and Video Systems Troubleshooting
  • Network Design and Configuration
  • Expeditionary Communications Deployment
  • Communications Security (COMSEC) Procedures
  • Network Performance Monitoring and Analysis

Certification Pathways

Partial Coverage

CompTIA Network+70% covered

Review network troubleshooting methodologies, OSI model, and some newer networking technologies and cloud concepts.

CompTIA Security+60% covered

Focus on risk management, compliance, and the latest threat landscape as it applies to cybersecurity.

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)50% covered

Study Cisco specific technologies like Cisco IOS, routing protocols (EIGRP, OSPF), and Cisco security features.

Recommended Next Certifications

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)Project Management Professional (PMP)Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise

Technical Systems Translation

Military systems you've used and their civilian equivalents for your resume.

Military SystemCivilian Equivalent
Integrated Network Management System (INMS)Network management platforms (e.g., SolarWinds, PRTG Network Monitor)
Promina MultiplexerTime-division multiplexing (TDM) equipment
Secure Terminal Equipment (STE)Encrypted VoIP phones and secure communication apps
KG-175D TACLANE EncryptorHigh-assurance IP encryptors (e.g., General Dynamics, Thales)
Defense Red Switch Network (DRSN)Secure voice and data communication systems
Ground Multiband Terminal (GMT)Satellite communication (SATCOM) terminals and services
Data Communication Network (DCN)Wide Area Network (WAN)

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