Transitioning from military service to a civilian career is a significant step, and the DoD SkillBridge program is a valuable resource to facilitate this journey. SkillBridge offers a variety of program types that connect service members with civilian employers across numerous industries, providing hands-on experience and specialized training in their chosen fields. While SkillBridge supports program types in sectors ranging from healthcare and engineering to finance and logistics, this article focuses on potential opportunities within the tech and IT industries. By exploring each of the four kinds of SkillBridge programs, we aim to help you navigate the best paths to leverage your military experience and build a successful career in technology.
1. Apprenticeship and Pre-Apprenticeship Programs
Apprenticeships combine structured on-the-job training with classroom instruction, enabling you to develop specific technical skills while continuing to earn your active duty wage. Pre-apprenticeships prepare service members for full apprenticeships by providing foundational skills and knowledge.
SkillBridge Apprenticeships in the Tech Industry
IT Apprenticeships
Technical apprenticeships in IT focus on areas like network administration, systems engineering, and technical support. These programs provide participants with hands-on experience in managing and maintaining complex IT infrastructures. Service members learn how to configure and troubleshoot network systems, ensuring operational efficiency and security. Additionally, apprentices receive mentorship from seasoned professionals, fostering both technical and leadership skills essential for career advancement.
Software Development Apprenticeships
Software development apprenticeships emphasize coding, software testing, and DevOps practices. Participants engage in real-world projects, writing and debugging code under the guidance of experienced developers. These programs may cover various programming languages and development frameworks, enhancing participants’ technical proficiency. Moreover, apprentices learn skills like best practices in software lifecycle management, including version control and continuous integration. This comprehensive training prepares service members to excel in dynamic software development environments.
Pre-Apprenticeships
Pre-apprenticeships offer introductory training in basic technical skills, preparing participants for advanced apprenticeships. These programs focus on foundational knowledge in areas like computer literacy, basic coding, and IT support principles. Service members gain essential skills that serve as a stepping stone to more specialized apprenticeship opportunities. Additionally, pre-apprenticeships often include workshops on building resumes and interview techniques, equipping participants with the tools needed to secure full apprenticeships. This preparatory phase ensures a smooth transition into more intensive training programs.
Apprenticeship Outcomes and Opportunities
Apprenticeships provide a clear pathway to certification and employment, allowing participants to earn while they learn. They offer hands-on experience with real projects, mentorship from industry professionals, and the opportunity to gain industry-recognized credentials. Large companies and local tech startups alike offer apprenticeship programs that lead to meaningful career opportunities. These programs often partner with educational institutions to provide comprehensive training and support. For instance, some apprenticeship programs integrate classroom learning with practical assignments, enabling participants to develop robust technical skills. Similarly, tech startups may offer more flexible apprenticeship structures, allowing service members to work on diverse projects and gain a broad range of experiences.
2. Employment Skills Training (EST) or On-the-Job Training (OJT)
Employment Skills Training (EST) or On-the-Job Training (OJT) programs provide direct training within a company’s operational environment. Participants learn job-specific skills through practical experience under the guidance of seasoned professionals.
SkillBridge EST and OJT Opportunities in Tech
Technical OJT
Technical OJT roles are situated within IT departments, cybersecurity operations centers, and software development teams. Participants work alongside experienced technicians and engineers, gaining hands-on experience in their respective fields. This immersive training approach allows service members to apply their military-acquired skills in real-world scenarios, enhancing their technical proficiency and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, technical OJT fosters collaboration and teamwork, essential qualities in any tech environment.
Project-Based OJT
Project-based OJT involves participation in specific projects, allowing participants to develop skills in focused areas such as cloud computing or data analytics. Service members contribute to ongoing projects, gaining practical insights into project management and execution. This type of training emphasizes the application of theoretical knowledge to tangible outcomes, bridging the gap between military training and civilian job requirements. Depending on the host company, participants should also expect to receive regular feedback and guidance, ensuring continuous improvement and skill development.
EST & OJT Outcomes and Opportunities
OJT programs offer immediate immersion into the work environment. They provide direct mentorship, regular feedback, and the chance to contribute to meaningful projects from day one. This hands-on experience accelerates learning and enhances employability by demonstrating practical capabilities to future employers. Additionally, OJT fosters professional relationships and networking opportunities within the industry, paving the way for long-term career growth.
In many cases, it’s not unusual for companies to integrate service members into their tech teams through OJT opportunities. These programs often involve working on high-impact projects, such as developing secure communication systems or enhancing cybersecurity defenses. By participating in OJT, service members gain exposure to advanced technologies and industry best practices, positioning themselves as attractive candidates for permanent roles within these organizations.
3. Internship Programs
Internships are generally short-term, hands-on work experiences. They aim to provide practical exposure, allowing service members to apply military skills in corporate settings, build professional networks, and explore potential career paths.
SkillBridge Internship Examples in Tech
Technical Internships
Technical internships won’t differ a whole lot from the type of work and opportunities available in apprenticeship and OJT SkillBridge programs. They also encompass positions in software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, IT support, and the like. Similar to OJT, internships allow service members to work on real projects, like contributing to the development and maintenance of software applications, securing networks, and analyzing data to drive business decisions. These internships are a different means to the same end, providing another platform to showcase technical expertise and adaptability, bridging the gap between military training and civilian job requirements.
How Internships Differ from Apprenticeships and OJT
While apprenticeships and OJT focus on in-depth skill development and hands-on training within specific roles, internships provide broader exposure to various aspects of a company. Internships are typically shorter in duration and may not always lead directly to certification or long-term employment, unlike apprenticeships which often have a clear pathway to a permanent position. OJT is usually more embedded within the company’s operations, focusing on immediate skill application and project-based learning. In contrast, internships offer a more exploratory experience, allowing service members to gain insights into different departments and roles before committing to a specific career path. It’s fair to say that experiences will vary depending on the host company’s needs and environment.
Internship Outcomes and Opportunities
The outcomes of internships, apprenticeships, and OJT programs can vary. Internships will aim to provide exposure and networking opportunities, potentially leading to full-time offers based on performance and company needs. Apprenticeships, on the other hand, are designed to produce highly skilled professionals ready for specific technical roles, often culminating in certifications and may guarantee employment upon completion. OJT focuses on immediate job readiness and integration into the company’s workforce, with participants often transitioning to permanent roles due to their demonstrated capabilities and familiarity with the company’s operations.
Internships offer real-world experience and the opportunity to understand corporate cultures and industry standards. They can serve as a pathway to full-time employment, helping participants transition smoothly into civilian careers. Internships also provide valuable networking opportunities, allowing service members to connect with industry professionals and potential employers. This exposure helps in making informed career decisions and identifying areas of interest within the tech sector.
4. Job Shadowing Programs
Job Shadowing allows service members to observe and learn from professionals in their desired career fields. This program type provides insights into daily job responsibilities, workplace environments, and industry practices without the commitment of an internship or apprenticeship.
SKillBridge Job Shadowing Examples in Tech
Technical Job Shadowing
While job shadowing programs are largely hands-off, participants continue to learn by observing and may be exposed to a variety of technical roles within a company. For example, shadowing a software engineer might involve observing the development lifecycle of a new application, from initial coding to deployment. Similarly, shadowing a cybersecurity analyst could include witnessing real-time threat assessments and response strategies. These experiences help service members understand the nuances of technical roles and the skills required to excel in them.
Job Shadowing Outcomes and Opportunities
Job shadowing offers a low-commitment way to explore different career paths and gain a better understanding of specific roles. It helps participants make informed decisions about their career direction and build valuable connections within the industry. By observing professionals in action, service members can identify the skills and experiences they need to develop further. Job shadowing also provides a glimpse into the day-to-day realities of various roles, helping to align career aspirations with practical opportunities.
Many organizations offer job shadowing opportunities, allowing participants to spend a day or a few weeks observing professionals in their fields of interest. For example, some might enable a service member to spend a week with a network architect, observing the design and implementation of large-scale networks. Other programs could allow participants to shadow data scientists, gaining insights into advanced analytics and machine learning projects. Startups, too, will offer shadowing experiences where participants can observe the development of data-driven solutions for product development. These programs provide a firsthand look at the skills and knowledge required for various tech roles, enabling service members to assess their fit within different career paths and build meaningful professional relationships.
Choosing the Right SkillBridge Program in Tech
Weigh the pros and cons of each program type based on your personal and professional needs and goals. Prioritize programs that offer the best alignment with your skills, interests, and career trajectory. Understanding the diverse types of DoD SkillBridge programs is crucial for selecting the right path toward a successful civilian career. Whether you seek structured apprenticeships, immersive on-the-job training, practical internships, or insightful job shadowing experiences, SkillBridge offers a range of opportunities to match your career goals. By assessing your interests, evaluating program requirements, and leveraging available resources, you can make an informed decision that sets the foundation for your post-military success. Start exploring today and take proactive steps toward a fulfilling new chapter in the tech industry.
As an approved Army CSP (SkillBridge) organization, we’re currently offering SkillBridge opportunities within our tech form. Navigate to our SKilBridge page to learn more about the application process . If you are a service member from a different branch, reach out to us and we can work with you to help you get approved for your service’s program.
