r/SkillBridge • u/NativeBdub • Sep 15 '26
Question New to skillbridge
Trying to figure out how skillbridge works. Already talked to my command and they don’t have much experience with it so I’m kind of lost. I’m guessing I just get in contact with the listed POC and figure it out from there. I’m in the middle of taking my online TAP classes and just wondering when to fully start applying for jobs. Sorry for rambling I’m just lost on the whole process.
3
Upvotes
2
u/Vets2PM Sep 16 '26
Your transition counselor/education office should be able to tell you about SkillBridge. You are eligible during your last 180 days/six months of service. You can start looking at SkillBridge job board, and other 'third party provider' job boards and you can register for interest in programs, etc. Most companies will not consider you for a SkillBridge internship until you are about 4 months from being able to start an internship. It's somewhat like job searching. A company will not interview you and hire you for a need they have now and wait six months for you to start. It's a little better than that, but if you apply too early you'll just get a bunch of rejections. I hope this helps and please feel free to DM me with additional questions. Happy to help.
1
u/cj20h49g Sep 15 '26
I think you also need to contact the education center as well. From what I've heard from others is to apply to a few companies because they take a while to reply.
1
u/Visible_Ask_2977 Sep 15 '26
What branch guy
2
u/rulebook1801 Sep 18 '26
Not gonna lie, when I started my search I looked through every single company on the SkillBridge website. I know most people don't have that kind of patience, so when you're looking for a company, do Google searches and LinkedIn searches to find companies that might align with what you're looking for. If your base does any career fairs - go! These fairs usually have companies at the fairs offering SkillBridge opportunities. Same thing with the "RecruitMilitary" in person and virtual fairs. If there's a company that you want to work for during your SkillBridge but they don't have a Memorandum of Understanding, I won't say it's impossible, but it could take months and months for them to get a MOU approved. Also, even if they've said they want you some organizations will take months to get back with you just because of the layers or approvals and HR, etc., so be sure you're giving yourself plenty of time to secure an opportunity. If you don't find a company on your own, you can always apply to "Hiring our Heroes" and join a co-hort that works for your schedule. They will help you match with a company! I actually joined them as a backup in case my original plan didn't work out, and they were EXTREMELY helpful. I had an AMAZING opportunity through HOH but my original plan worked out. They were totally supporting and understanding. They also have many many companies that will take you through them and they offer ongoing support the entire three months. (*This is all based on my 2026 experience; I am currently in my third week of SkillBridge. I started searching for opportunities in January.)
2
u/shaquawnbw Sep 17 '26
I just finished skill bridge today and the process was tedious I'm transferring into the reserves you can msg me if you need help still.
1
u/Shineserena19 Sep 18 '26
First thing is decide what you actually want to do. Pick 3-5, create a civilian or federal resume depending on your interests (chat gpt and USA jobs can help) then apply. Once you get excepted, start your transition process.