By Joshua Fiedler
Graduates from Ivy League schools often dominate the ranks of Silicon Valley’s top CEOs, but there is one outlier institution producing an unforeseen number of successful entrepreneurs, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). Veterans of Israel’s military, especially those from elite units like Unit 8200 – a unit famed for its cyber-tech abilities – are finding extraordinary success in the technological world. With skills honed in cybersecurity and intelligence, these IDF graduates are emerging as key players in the global startup ecosystem.
The most notable recent success story is Wiz, a cyber security company founded by Asaf Rappaport, a former member of Unit 8200. Wiz quickly rose to prominence, and made headlines by turning down a $23 billion acquisition offer from google.
Rappaport’s background in military intelligence provided him with deep expertise in cybersecurity, allowing Wiz to develop cutting-edge solutions that protect businesses worldwide. The company’s fast rise to giant status within a year is a testament to how IDF veterans leverage their skills in high-stakes environments.
Unit 8200 is unmatched in its cyber-tech abilities, but it’s also a breeding ground for technology entrepreneurs. Known for training soldiers in intelligence gathering, cyber warfare, and advanced technological operations, the unit’s alumni include founders of global tech giants like Checkpoint and Palo Alto Networks. The pathway into a technological career after serving in unit 8200 is practically inevitable. Sanaz Yashar, the founder of cybersecurity startup Zafran, even told The Wall Street Journal that unit 8200 enrollees asked her specifically about hiring and salaries at technological companies. Many veterans credit their time in 8200 with teaching them not only technical skills but also leadership, adaptability, and the ability to innovate under pressure – qualities essential for building successful startups.
Aksata is an Israeli agricultural technology (Ag-Tech) start-up with strong IDF roots. Founded by a team of veterans, Aksata focuses on hardware and software solutions that dispense advanced agricultural materials with drones. Their military experience has shaped a unique company culture that emphasizes ambition, problem-solving, and improvisation – traits honed during their time in the army. CBO Ari Eisenberg even said, “There is no problem we can’t solve.” This was because he and his team learned to handle difficult real-time situations in the army, allowing him to experience true leadership firsthand. He attributes that time and experience as the true catalyst for his success.
From global giants like Wiz to startups like Aksata, the influence of IDF veterans in the technology world is undeniable. Their ability to translate military skills into entrepreneurial success has allowed them to penetrate the start-up world and make an impact. The IDF provides an education that no Ivy League school can replicate, a realization that Silicon Valley is beginning to understand. As these veterans continue to disrupt industries and drive innovation, Israel’s reputation as a global technological powerhouse is only set to grow.
Photo Caption: Israeli Defense Force Soldiers
Photo Credit: Unsplash