SkillBridge is a Department of Defense program that allows service members to gain valuable civilian work experience during their last 180 days of service. Through industry training, apprenticeships, or internships, you can transition directly into civilian employment while still on active duty.
This guide provides everything you need to understand the program, determine your eligibility, find opportunities, and successfully apply—so you can bridge the gap between military service and your next career with confidence.
Visit Official SkillBridge SiteSkillBridge is an opportunity for service members to work with civilian companies, non-profits, and public agencies during the final months of their military career. Instead of spending your last 180 days on base with limited duties, you can gain hands-on experience in your desired civilian field—while still receiving your military pay and benefits.
The program is authorized under 10 U.S.C. 1143(c) and coordinated through the Department of Defense. It's designed to ease the transition by giving service members real-world experience, professional connections, and a clear path to employment after separation.
Think of SkillBridge as a trial run for your civilian career. It's a chance to test a company, industry, or role before you fully commit—and for employers to see your value firsthand. Many participants receive job offers before their separation date.
The transition from military to civilian life is one of the most challenging career shifts you'll face. SkillBridge addresses the core obstacles veterans encounter: translating military experience, building civilian networks, and proving your value in unfamiliar industries.
Your military skills are valuable, but civilian employers want proof you can apply them in their environment. SkillBridge gives you that proof—and the resume line to show it.
Most civilian jobs are filled through referrals, not applications. SkillBridge places you inside companies where you can build relationships, demonstrate your work ethic, and earn internal advocates.
Not sure if a particular role or industry is right for you? SkillBridge lets you explore without risk. If it's not a fit, you have time to pivot before your separation date.
Unlike unpaid internships, SkillBridge allows you to gain civilian experience while continuing to receive your military salary, healthcare, and housing benefits throughout the program.
According to DoD data, a significant percentage of SkillBridge participants receive job offers from their host companies. Even those who don't receive offers benefit from the experience, professional references, and clarity about their career direction.
SkillBridge is available to active duty service members across all branches who meet specific eligibility criteria. The process requires coordination with your command, a DoD-approved training provider, and adherence to program guidelines.
Visit the official SkillBridge website and browse the searchable database of approved training providers. Filter by location, industry, and job type to find opportunities that align with your career goals.
Submit your resume and application directly to the companies or organizations offering SkillBridge positions. Treat this like a real job application—tailor your materials, prepare for interviews, and demonstrate why you're a strong fit.
Once you receive interest from a training provider, work with your chain of command and transition office to submit the necessary paperwork. This typically includes a training agreement, command approval, and coordination with your installation's transition services.
You'll need to complete a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) or training agreement between you, your command, and the training provider. Ensure all parties sign and approve before your start date.
Report to your SkillBridge placement during your approved timeframe. You'll work full-time with the civilian organization while continuing to receive your military pay and benefits. Maintain communication with your command as required.
Start this process early—ideally 6-9 months before your desired start date. Command approval can take time, and competitive opportunities fill quickly. Don't wait until your last 180 days to begin researching and applying.
Employers benefit significantly from participating in SkillBridge. The program provides access to highly trained, disciplined, and motivated talent—at no cost to your organization. It's also an opportunity to evaluate potential long-term hires before making formal employment offers.
Service members remain on active duty and are paid by the military. Employers provide training and work experience at no direct cost.
Veterans bring leadership, technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a strong work ethic developed through military service.
SkillBridge allows employers to assess performance, culture fit, and potential over several months before making hiring decisions.
Supporting transitioning service members strengthens your company's reputation and demonstrates commitment to veteran hiring initiatives.
Companies, non-profits, and government agencies can become approved SkillBridge training providers by registering with the Department of Defense. Once approved, organizations can post opportunities, review applications, and coordinate placements with transitioning service members.
The approval process involves submitting organization details, training plans, and agreeing to program guidelines. DoD reviews applications to ensure they meet quality standards and provide meaningful career development opportunities.
Learn How to Become a ProviderTaking advantage of SkillBridge requires planning, preparation, and proactive communication with your command. Follow these actionable steps to maximize your chances of securing a valuable placement.
Don't wait until you're within 180 days to begin researching. Identify target industries, update your resume, and start networking with companies offering SkillBridge opportunities. Command approval and application processing take time.
Visit the official SkillBridge website and use the searchable opportunity finder. Filter by location, industry, job type, and duration. Review each provider's description, requirements, and application process carefully.
Search SkillBridge OpportunitiesTranslate your military experience into civilian terms. Focus on measurable outcomes, leadership experience, and technical skills. Remove jargon and rank-specific terminology. Tailor your resume for each opportunity you apply to.
Career Resources & Resume GuidanceTreat SkillBridge like a real job search—apply to multiple positions, not just one. Competitive opportunities receive many applications. Having backup options increases your chances of securing a placement that aligns with your goals.
Once you receive interest from a training provider, inform your command immediately. Work with your transition office, first sergeant, and commanding officer to complete required paperwork and secure approval. Be professional, prepared, and clear about how the opportunity supports your transition.
You must complete Transition Assistance Program (TAP) requirements before participating in SkillBridge. Don't delay—attend TAP workshops, complete career counseling, and fulfill all transition checklist items as early as possible.
Visit the official DoD SkillBridge website to search approved training providers, learn about the application process, and start planning your transition strategy.
Go to SkillBridge.osd.milUse these official resources to learn more about SkillBridge, access application tools, and connect with support services designed to help you succeed in your transition.
The primary DoD resource for SkillBridge program information, opportunity listings, and employer resources.
Visit SkillBridge.osd.milSearch the database of approved SkillBridge training providers by location, industry, and job type.
Search OpportunitiesComplete TAP requirements before applying to SkillBridge. Access schedules, curriculum, and workshops.
Visit DoD TAPInformation for companies interested in becoming approved SkillBridge training providers.
Learn MoreExplore career planning strategies, resume guidance, and transition support specifically for veterans.
View Career ResourcesReturn to the top of this page for a complete guide to SkillBridge eligibility, benefits, and application steps.
View Full GuideContact your installation's transition office, Military OneSource (1-800-342-9647), or your service's career counseling center for personalized guidance on SkillBridge and other transition programs.
SkillBridge is one of many tools available to support your transition. ActiveCivilian provides comprehensive guidance on career planning, benefits navigation, and life after service—all designed specifically for veterans and transitioning service members.