Israel’s Elite 'Odem' Program Trains Young Engineers for Shin Bet and Mossad

The Israeli Defense Ministry’s "Odem" program recruits promising teenagers from peripheral regions, training them to become future engineers for top security agencies including Shin Bet, Mossad, and the Military Industries Directorate (Mafat). Starting at age 15, participants leave home to study in a specialized boarding school in Katzrin, Golan Heights, where they undergo three years of intensive high school education focused on physics, English, mechatronics, and leadership. Afterward, they pursue four years of mechanical or electrical engineering at the Technion, followed by six years of service in elite security units.

The program addresses two main challenges: a shortage of skilled engineers in Israel’s defense sector and the need to diversify recruitment beyond central Israel. Currently, over 40% of participants are female and more than 30% come from peripheral areas. Candidates are selected not solely based on academic excellence but on technological aptitude, motivation, and independent learning potential. This year, 50 students were chosen from 900 applicants.

Participants face significant personal sacrifices, including early separation from family and a demanding schedule often requiring long study hours supported by coffee and medication. Despite these challenges, many express pride in contributing to national security. One participant recalled presenting a self-built mini-computer to senior defense officials at age 15, marking a pivotal moment in his life.

The program is fully funded by the Israeli government, with the Defense Ministry, Mafat, Shin Bet, Mossad, and the IDF as its primary beneficiaries. Graduates are expected to develop Israel’s next generation of advanced weapons, satellites, and laser technologies. The ultimate goal for many is to serve the country in critical technological roles within these agencies.