Some info regarding why clearances are taking so long for those looking to break into the industry:

https://news.clearancejobs.com/2017/...isppac-update/

• DSS is not fully funded to pay for all of the 2017 investigations needed. They are metering the release of investigations to OPM.
  
• Both DSS and OPM are incurring recurring costs to pay for the identity theft protection.
  
• As a result, OPM raised the cost of investigations and is hiring 700+ investigators.
  
• OPM is still hurting from lack of investigators left over from the USIS contract termination as well as need to investigate more thoroughly and the move to Tiers.
  
• Interim Secrets now require a fingerprint check, extending timelines from 3-5 days to 3-6 months.