SkillBridge: A Strategic Talent Pipeline for Government Contractors

SkillBridge interns at a defense contractor can take on a wide range of roles that align with both their military skill sets and the contractor’s business needs. Because many transitioning service members possess security clearances, technical training, and leadership experience, they are well-suited for jobs in high-demand sectors within defense contracting.

The DoD SkillBridge program is a highly effective recruitment tool, especially for industries like defense contracting, where a premium is placed on security clearances, technical skills, and mission-oriented personnel. The benefits:

1. Access to Pre-Vetted, Skilled Talent: This pool is uniquely positioned for roles in engineering, IT, program management, intelligence, and logistics—core functions of most defense contractors.
2. Zero Labor Cost During Internship: SkillBridge interns are paid by the DoD, not your company. This “try before you hire” structure dramatically reduces recruitment risk.
3. Tailored Training for Long-Term Hiring: The program encourages companies to create structured, career-aligned training experiences. It’s more than a pipeline—it’s a built-in apprenticeship model.
4. Competitive Advantage in Veteran Recruitment: Companies with approved SkillBridge programs often get listed on SkillBridge.osd.mil, increasing visibility, and build a reputation as a military-friendly employer.

In the defense sector, where cleared, capable candidates are in demand, this gives your organization a distinct edge.

HOW TO BECOME A SKILLBRIDGE EMPLOYER

Here’s what you need to do to become a SkillBridge Employer.

1. Understand the DoD SkillBridge Program

The SkillBridge program allows service members to spend up to the last 180 days of their military service interning or training with civilian employers in preparation for the transition to civilian work. As a defense contractor, becoming a SkillBridge partner gives you access to a highly trained and disciplined talent pipeline with security clearances, relevant skills, and mission-aligned experience.

2. Determine Eligibility and Readiness

You should be able to:

• Offer structured, skill-based training programs or internships (not just general employment).
• Provide training that leads to potential employment.
• Comply with DoD ethics regulations (i.e., unpaid training, no compensation from service members, no promise of employment required but preferred).

3. Prepare Your Application

Gather and prepare things like company information: Name, address, point of contact, size, and DUNS/CAGE codes if applicable. Program details: Description of the training/internship structure, duration, supervision, learning objectives, and target military career fields. Employment potential: Describe how many SkillBridge participants have historically been hired (if applicable) or outline hiring plans.

4. Submit the Application

You must apply through the DoD SkillBridge website, then await review and approval.

5. Develop Outreach and Coordination Processes

Once approved you will coordinate with military installation SkillBridge coordinators or transition offices, publicize your opportunities via the DoD SkillBridge website and other veteran job boards, and ensure you have points of contact familiar with military culture and SkillBridge regulations.

TYPES OF ROLES SKILLBRIDGE INTERNS CAN DO

1. Engineering & Technical Roles: These roles are a natural fit for veterans with military occupational specialties (MOS) in communications, avionics, mechanical systems, or electronics.
2. IT, Cybersecurity, and Intelligence: Many military members have direct experience in cyber, intelligence, and IT operations, making them well-prepared for cybersecurity, network, systems administration, and other helpdesk support.
3. Program & Project Management: Military experience often translates well to project leadership. Roles include Program Manager / Assistant Program Manager, Project Coordinator, Scrum Master or Agile Project Assistant, or Acquisition or Contract Support.
4. Operations & Logistics: Military logisticians and supply specialists can contribute directly to Supply Chain Analyst, Logistics Coordinator, Operations Analyst, or Maintenance Planners.
5. Administrative & Support Roles: Service members with administrative experience are often well-suited for Contracts Administrator, Human Resources Support, Recruiting, Technical Writer or other proposal support.

Note: Interns must not perform duties that would normally require compensation or replace paid employees. They also can’t be billed against government contracts.

All in all, a good DoD Skillbridge program will focus on career-aligned, structured learning outcomes, include mentorship, training modules, and post-service hiring potential, and set up a potential pipeline for future employment with your company.

THE CLEARED RECRUITING CHRONICLES: YOUR WEEKLY DoD RECRUITING TIPS TO OUT COMPETE THE NEXT NATIONAL SECURITY STAFFER.