DOD is implementing important updates to the DOD SkillBridge partner application process to better manage and support our partnerships. On 31 July 2024, the Department will end rolling enrollment for new Industry Partner applications; to be considered under the open enrollment structure, applications must be received no later than 15 July 2024. A revised DOD SkillBridge Industry Partner Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) goes into effect on 15 July 2024 with new criteria for future partnerships.
Effective 1 October 2024 DOD SkillBridge will transition to structured application enrollment periods.
Existing industry partners in good standing who have an expired MOU listed on the DOD SkillBridge Authorized Organizations are automatically extended through 30 September 2024; MOU renewals will be processed prior to the 30 September 2024 expiration.
Prospective SkillBridge organizations are highly encouraged to attend a bi-weekly DOD SkillBridge New Partner Application Process Information Sessions. If you have questions or need assistance with the DOD SkillBridge program, please contact us.
Notice: DOD SkillBridge has scheduled maintenance that may impact functionality of our platforms. Maintenance Window: 25 July - 1 August 2024. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience as we work to make our systems better to serve you.
Do you have a service member in your command who is preparing for their release from active duty? Want to support their next steps? SkillBridge provides active duty service members the opportunity to participate in industry sponsored work and gain experience and training for up to 180 days prior to their date of release or discharge from active duty.
Unit Commanders must evaluate the mission impact before approving requests to participate, and they can recall a member from the SkillBridge program if necessary. Often SkillBridge programs do not last 180 days. Most programs are less than four months, which allows members not only to receive their industry-related training and set themselves up for immediate entry into a new career (typically with the industry partner), but also to have time to use terminal leave, so long as it does not total more than 180 days combined.
To learn more about existing opportunities, go to the SkillBridge Locations Map to review programs currently in place.
You can offer support to the service members under your command by authorizing this time away during their last 180 days of service. Benefits to the member include:
Note: As published in the joint ethics regulations of the Department of Defense and as outlined in the U.S. Department of Labor's Fact Sheet #71 of January 2018, service members participating in a SkillBridge program are participating in a capstone training experience at the end of the military career. The Department of Defense will continue to cover the salaries and benefits of the participating members, thus they are NOT eligible for wages or other benefits from industry partners.