Skillbridge

What is Skillbridge?

SkillBridge is a Department of Defense (DoD) program that allows active-duty service members to transition into civilian careers during their final six months of service. It provides them with the opportunity to intern, receive training, or work with civilian companies while still receiving their military pay and benefits. By partnering with approved industry employers, SkillBridge enables service members to gain hands-on experience and job skills relevant to their post-military career, facilitating a smoother transition into the civilian workforce. It requires command approval and is designed to enhance career readiness.

Program Description

• Civilian Job Training: The SkillBridge program allows active-duty service members to participate in civilian job training, employment skills training, internships, or apprenticeships during their last 180 days of service.
• Career Transition: The goal is to provide service members with real-world experience in industries that align with their skills and career goals, increasing their chances of securing employment upon separation from the military.
• No Cost to Employers: Employers offering SkillBridge opportunities do not have to pay service members during their training period because the military continues to provide their pay and benefits.
• Wide Range of Industries: Service members can choose from a wide variety of industries such as information technology, construction, healthcare, logistics, and many more.

Requirements for Service Members

1. Eligibility:
   • Must be on active duty in the U.S. military.
   • Be within the last 180 days of their military service.
   • Must have completed at least 180 days of continuous active duty service.
   • Must have commander approval to participate in the program. Approval is based on mission requirements and whether the service member is meeting their military obligations.
2. Honorable Service:
   • Service members must be expected to separate honorably (honorable discharge or general discharge under honorable conditions).
3. Full-Time Participation:
   • The program typically requires full-time participation in the civilian internship or training program, meaning the service member will not be performing their regular military duties during this period.
4. No Adverse Impact:
   • Participation must not have a negative impact on unit or mission readiness.
5. Voluntary Participation:
   • Participation in the SkillBridge program is completely voluntary for the service member and must be self-initiated.

Requirements for Employers

1. Eligible Organization:
   • Employers must be vetted and approved by the DoD to offer training through the SkillBridge program. This includes private-sector companies, government agencies, or industry partners.
2. Training Leading to Employment:
   • The training offered through SkillBridge must have a high
     probability of leading to civilian employment for the service member.
3. Structured Training Program:
   • Employers must provide a structured and supervised training environment that matches the service member’s skill set and career interests.
4. Compliance with Federal Regulations:
   • Employers must ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws, including nondiscrimination laws.
5. No Employment Guarantees:
   • While not guaranteed, employers are encouraged to hire service members after completing the training program if they successfully complete their apprenticeship or internship.

Benefits of Skillbridge

• For Service Members: Provides a seamless transition from military to civilian employment, helping them develop career skills and professional networks.
• For Employers: Provides access to a highly disciplined, skilled, and experienced pool of potential employees at no cost during the training period.

The SkillBridge program is a win-win, allowing military members to gain valuable work experience while employers benefit from the skills and work ethic of those transitioning from the military.

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