DOD SkillBridge: Then and Now

By Lucas Connolly

In 2016, I began the inevitable transition from a Field Artillery officer to a civilian. I had a long and rewarding military career and was eager to begin leveraging my experience in new and exciting ways.

One morning, some 180 days prior to my retirement date, I reached into my closet and, instead of grabbing my uniform, picked out a dark blue work shirt, pants, protective glasses, and safety shoes. That Monday marked the start of my internship with a well-known food manufacturing company. What this morning really represented was the beginning of the end of my military career, the first time I had put on a uniform that wasn’t U.S. Army issued, and the potential to make a significant first impression with an employer who recognized that my experience was worthy of cultivating.

I very quickly went from being one of the most experienced members of my military command to being the “new guy” in a workplace where literally everyone had more knowledge and experience than me. The learning curve was a steep and the work was hard, but it paved the way for an offer of full-time employment, with a highly competitive salary, the day a received my DD-214. The program that enabled such a seamless transition was the Department of Defense (DoD) SkillBridge.

What is SkillBridge?

The DoD SkillBridge program authorizes transitioning service members to step away from their military organizations and begin work with a civilian employer during their last 180 days of active service. It’s important to note that participants are still active service members, and are required to gain permission from their command, meet regulatory compliance, and maintain communication with their military command.

The program enables transitioning service members to build upon skills they gained in the military, learn new skills catered to the civilian sector, and transition into full-time employment immediately following service.

SkillBridge programs can take the form of apprenticeships, pre-apprenticeships, internships, and employment skills training. Some programs include training that may even yield professional certifications such as Project Management Professional, Human Resource Management, and information technology certifications.

Thousands of thoroughly vetted and approved employers offer SkillBridge programs, many of which are listed on the DoD SkillBridge website. Despite significant backing from these

employers, only 10-11% of transitioning service members utilize the program due to lack of knowledge of the program’s existence.

The Future of SkillBridge

Since its inception, more than 50,000 service members have taken advantage of the SkillBridge program. Before submitting an application based on what you've heard from previous participants, ensure you know the facts.

In August of 2024, the DoD announced upcoming changes to policies and procedures related to program participation. This has led to rumors that the program is ending or that the military no longer supports it. This couldn't be further from the truth. Recent adjustments were made to enhance opportunities for service members, increase employment prospects, and eliminate predatory practices. While most of the changes impact employer program management, service members will undoubtedly reap the benefits of a more regulated vetting and maintenance process.

For the most reliable information, consult the subject matter experts at your local transition office.

SkillBridge How-To

Plan Early: Transitioning service members should meet with their local transition office, connect with a program coordinator, identify a suitable program, and begin applying for command approval and employer acceptance 9-12 months prior to separation.

Be Prepared: Treat the SkillBridge application process like a typical job application: submit an application, provide an updated resume, and prepare for interviews. These programs are competitive, and neither acceptance nor employment is guaranteed. Employers make the final decision.

Be Professional: SkillBridge is not an opportunity to escape accountability and avoid work for a few months. Employers are looking for military talent to meet their organizational staffing needs. Service members should expect a robust training program and commit to reaching their employer’s performance goals if they hope to receive a job offer. Failure to meet expectations could easily result in a service member being terminated by the employer and returned to their military command.

Know the Rules: SkillBridge is not an entitlement. Commanders must weigh the demands of manning and mission readiness before approving a service member to leave their unit for participation. Participating service members remain on active duty and subject to the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Additionally, service members should consider the fact

that they can be recalled by their command for any number of reasons before relocating themselves and their families.

SkillBridge is an incredible tool if properly utilized and can make a tremendous difference in ensuring a successful transition. For additional information, visit the DoD SkillBridge website and your local transition office for considerations unique to your case.

Today I manage a program for RecruitMilitary, helping employers create and servicemembers connect with SkillBridge opportunities. If you are in transition, or a veteran looking for their next career move, come visit us at www.recruitmilitary.com . You will be glad you did.