By Kimberly Valdeos, ACP
The information technology sector is rapidly becoming one of the most promising fields to
pursue, offering a wealth of opportunities. From the laptop you use to sorting through your
emails to the latest innovations in your office, technology has become integral to our daily lives
and critical for every industry to operate effectively.
The tech sector has consistently been one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic industries,
reshaping the world overnight. Matthew Lubeski, UBS Director Technology & Risk Specialist
and American Corporate Partners mentor, reflects on his transition from the military to the
civilian sector in the mid-1990s, a time when technology was beginning to surge. Lubeski, who
completed his service in the Air Force with experience in electronics, computers and networks,
found that his military background gave him a strong foundation in the technology that was just
emerging in the market. His military experience and training, combined with the principles and
discipline he developed during his service, enabled him to grow alongside the industry as it
evolved.
ACP protege and Marine Corps veteran Christopher Frey echoes Lubeski’s thoughts on the tech
industry’s progression. Frey emphasizes, “You have to keep learning and evolving; it’s an
industry in which you have to keep progressing yourself.”
As a newcomer to tech, Frey landed a role as a junior data analyst during his mentorship. He
discovered that skills developed in the military, starting from boot camp, were perfectly
transferable to IT. Military service members possess innate strengths that set them apart in the
tech sector. The core values such as self-discipline, problem-solving and teamwork to
accomplish common goals are assets veterans bring to the table, making them uniquely suited to
thrive in this fast-paced industry.
Both Lubeski and Frey agree that mentorships play a crucial role in an individual’s success in the
tech industry. Lubeski states, “A mentorship is huge. I’ve never known anyone to get into a
leadership role without a mentor—everyone can use the help. Especially in tech, where setting
yourself apart and seeking advancements is key, a mentor can help you do that.”
A mentor provides guidance, offers valuable advice and serves as a sounding board, helping
individuals navigate their careers and achieve their goals. Frey credits his work with Lubeski
during the ACP mentorship program for keeping his motivation high and his focus sharp as he
transitioned into the tech field.
Lubeski and Frey’s experience underscores the value of leveraging military skills and seeking
mentorship in the tech industry—a field where veterans can not only succeed but also lead.
If you’re interested in the sector, an ACP Mentorship can help with your first steps in your career
journey. Veterans, please apply here to connect with an ACP operations associate and enroll in
our no-cost mentorship program. For those who want to join ACP’s mission of giving back to
our veteran community, please follow this link and fill out our mentor application.