Combat veterans are returning home, not just to rebuild their lives but to drive the revival of the northern high-tech industry. Having served on the front lines and with many still on reserve duty, these warriors are now graduates of an elite training program launched in collaboration with Atidim, IDF's "Gateway to the Future" directorate, and ZIM. As northern communities repopulate, these graduates stand at the forefront of economic and technological restoration.
A graduation ceremony recently celebrated the latest "High-Tech Warriors" cohort in Acre. This initiative, led by the Atidim Association and the IDF's "Gateway to the Future" directorate, in partnership with industry leaders like ZIM and CyberproAI, empowers combat veterans with the skills to launch high-tech careers, addressing the urgent need for employment growth in the northern region.
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A Program with a Purpose
Spearheaded by Atidim, "Warriors to High-Tech" ensures all combat soldiers receive the same career opportunities as their peers from elite tech units.
The program is supported by the IDF, the "Gateway to the Future" Directorate, the Directorate and Fund for Discharged Soldiers, the Stef Foundation, Mifal HaPais, and leading companies in the industry. It was established based on the idea that recognizing and rewarding combat soldiers upon discharge increases motivation among high-caliber recruits to join combat roles, thereby also addressing key needs of the IDF.
Over five months, participants mastered software development, advanced programming, and cutting-edge technologies tailored to ZIM's departments, including UX/UI, Oracle SOA, Kafka, Digital, and ZIMLABS. However, their training extended beyond academics, many were called to reserve duty mid-course, juggling national security responsibilities with their professional transformation. The program adapted, allowing them to complete their training despite the challenges of war.
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From Training to Employment
This cohort followed a specialized program, blending theoretical learning with hands-on industry experience. As they graduate, most will be recruited by ZIM, making this program a model for focused training and direct industry placement. It's proof that combat veterans can lead in tech, just as they did on the battlefield.
A New Era for the North
Beyond personal career growth, these graduates symbolize economic revival. Their transition into high-tech marks a crucial step in rebuilding the region—not just in population, but in innovation and opportunity.
Voices of Impact
Ronen Yair, Head of Development Division and ZIMLABS Innovation Center at ZIM:
“We’re honored to welcome these talented veterans, who bring resilience and dedication from the battlefield to the workplace. Their training prepared them for a promising career at ZIM, where they will help drive technological advancements in our industry.”
Keren Hadad, director of the "High-Tech Warriors" program from Atidim:
“This program is a game-changer, giving combat soldiers direct entry into high-tech careers. Seeing them succeed after overcoming immense challenges reaffirms the power of this initiative.”
Jonathan Ben-Ezra, Chief Full-Stack Instructor, CyberproAI Israel:
“From zero tech experience to industry-ready specialists, these warriors exceeded all expectations. Their journey is nothing short of extraordinary.”
As these veterans step into high-tech roles, they are not just building careers, they are shaping the future of the North. Their service continues, now in the realm of innovation.
