DoD vs Civilian Agencies: Where Should Beginners Start in Federal Contracting?

New to federal contracting and wondering whether to target the Department of Defense or civilian agencies? DoD awards the biggest dollars but demands the steepest compliance (CMMC, DFARS). Civilian agencies (HHS, DHS, VA, GSA) often move faster with lower barriers. The smart beginner move: start where your past performance and network already live, then expand. Where did you land your first contract — defense or civilian — and why?