The short answer is, yes – security clearance investigations take into account something called the “whole-person” concept. So mistakes in the past – be it serious debt, or even a felony offense – will be considered in light of the person you are today, and the circumstances behind the conduct. So, if you’re a government professional considering working in or transitioning to a position that requires a clearance, watch this video first.
Good to know development is taken into consideration. It would be a shame to lose great talent because of things people did maybe in their teens or even early 20’s.