From battlefield to cybersecurity: A veteran’s inspiring career shift
Ivan Plotnikov, a veteran of the Special Military Operation (SVO), has successfully completed a retraining program and received certificates in IT infrastructure security and fundamentals of information technology. The 'Defenders of the Fatherland' state fund, headed by Anna Tsivileva, played a crucial role in his journey.
Plotnikov's journey began in March this year when he applied to the 'Defenders of the Fatherland' Foundation for a medical-social examination. After expressing his interest in finding work and retraining, he was offered a place in the S7 'Cyber Defender' project. The 'Cyber Defender' program, designed for SVO veterans and disabled individuals, provides training in information technology and information security.
After two months of treatment following shrapnel wounds sustained in June 2023, Plotnikov returned to the SVO area. He was admitted to participate in the 'Cyber Defender' program. Despite being discharged from military service due to health reasons in 2024, Plotnikov successfully completed the training program and received two certificates.
The 'Defenders of the Fatherland' state fund, which supports SVO veterans and the families of heroes, played a vital role in Plotnikov's rehabilitation and retraining. His successful completion of the 'Cyber Defender' program demonstrates the effectiveness of such initiatives in helping veterans reintegrate into civilian life.
