SkillBridge Program

 

Peterson SFB is pleased to offer its military members the SkillBridge Program.

The SkillBridge Program

SkillBridge Program is an opportunity for Service Members (officers and enlisted) to gain valuable civilian work experience through specific industry training such as apprenticeship, on-the-job training (OJT), employment skills training, and internship during the last 180 days of service. SkillBridge Program can help service member’s transition smoothly from a military to civilian career.

How does it work?

Eligible Airmen/Guardians must attend mandatory SkillBridge briefing, select approved apprenticeship, on-the-job training (OJT), employment skills training, or internship with private sector employers and then submit an application through AFVEC requesting approval to participate in the SkillBridge Program.   Current DoD approved companies/SkillBridge Providers can be found at www.skillbridge.osd.mil. Companies seeking DoD approval must go through the vetting process. Information is available on the SkillBridge website listed above.   

Airmen/Guardians digitally sign a Memorandum of Participation in AFVEC outlining their participation in the SkillBridge Program, which includes the requirement to report accountability, comply with military training requirement, and maintain military standards.

Unit Commander (1^st field grade commander in chain of command) with UCMJ authority approves/denies the Airman’s participation in the SkillBridge Program in AFVEC. 

Who qualifies to participate in the program?

Members (enlisted and officers) must complete 180 days on Active Duty (AD) and expect to be discharged or released from AD within 180 days of starting the SkillBridge Program.  If the unit commander determines the Airman is not mission essential, they may be approved for SkillBridge Program participation.

How can someone sign up for the program?

Airmen/Guardians must attend a mandatory SkillBridge Briefing offered every 1st and 2nd Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m.  RSVP by visiting ‘Education Center Events’ on AFVEC.  Members must self-initiate participation by searching/contacting a company/SkillBridge Provider and submitting an application via AFVEC within 30-days of the SkillBridge Program start date.

Are there specific dates or time frames when someone can enter the program or is it flexible to accommodate any entry date?

Eligible Airmen/Guardians (enlisted and officers) must be expect to be discharged or released from AD within 180 days of starting the SkillBridge Program. Can start anytime within the 180 days and end on or before Date of Separation (DOS).

Who do I call for more information?

For more information, please contact SkillBridge Program Managers at 719-556-4996 or message us in AFVEC.

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“Military to Civilian transition:  Building Skills – bridging to a new career” – Space Observer article, January 26, 2017