The DOD SkillBridge program is an opportunity for Sailors to gain valuable civilian work experience through specific industry training, apprenticeships, or internships during the last 180 days of service. SkillBridge connects Sailors with industry partners in real-world job experiences.

SkillBridge provides an invaluable chance to work and learn in civilian career areas. Sailors participating in SkillBridge receive their military compensation and benefits, and industry partners provide the training and work experience.

SkillBridge can help Sailors bridge the gap between the end of service and the beginning of their civilian careers. Commanders can greatly ease this return to civilian life by supporting their reports’ interest in SkillBridge. When mission permits, Commanders who support SkillBridge participation are helping their personnel find a civilian career with a trusted employer.

Sailors can be granted up to 180 days of permissive duty to focus solely on training full-time with approved industry partners after unit commander (first O-4/Field Grade commander in chain of command with NJP authority) provides written authorization and approval. These industry partners offer real-world training and work experience in in-demand fields of work while having the opportunity to evaluate the Service member’s suitability for the work.