“It’s not just a program—it’s a runway. SkillBridge gives service members time, structure, and support to land their next mission with purpose.”
What Is the DoD SkillBridge Program?
For many service members, the most stressful part of leaving the military isn’t packing up a household or filling out VA paperwork—it’s figuring out what comes next.
The Department of Defense SkillBridge program was created to change that.
SkillBridge is a game-changing opportunity that allows active-duty service members to spend the last 180 days of their military service training and working with an approved civilian organization, with command approval. It gives transitioning service members the chance to gain hands-on experience, explore new career paths, and build valuable connections—all while still on active duty and receiving military pay and benefits.
Why It Matters
The transition out of the military can be disorienting. You’ve spent years in a mission-focused environment, and suddenly you’re handed a DD-214 and expected to navigate a new career field, civilian culture, and often a relocation—all at once.
SkillBridge helps bridge that gap.
- For Service Members: It means real-world experience, career clarity, and a smoother landing into civilian life.
- For Employers: It’s a low-risk, high-impact way to connect with mission-ready talent trained to lead, adapt, and deliver.
- For the DoD: It reduces unemployment and improves long-term outcomes for veterans and their families.
How It Works
- Eligibility: Any active-duty service member within their final 180 days of service can apply for a SkillBridge program—with approval from their command.
- Find a Partner: Participants select an approved SkillBridge provider, like Unturning Steel, that aligns with their interests and goals.
- Training & Placement: The program includes on-the-job training, certifications, mentorship, and real exposure to the civilian workforce.
- Transition Support: Participants gain not just experience—but community, confidence, and a clear path forward.
The UTS Way: SkillBridge with Purpose
At Unturning Steel, we take SkillBridge further than just job training. We exist to fight veteran suicide and strengthen American manufacturing by empowering veterans with community, purpose, and certainty.
Our SkillBridge program offers:
- Hands-on experience in reliability and manufacturing careers
- Professional certifications through our partnership with UT-Knoxville’s RMC
- Mentorship from veterans already working in U.S. industry
- A brotherhood and sisterhood that doesn’t end when the uniform comes off
Because it’s not just about preparing someone for a job—it’s about preparing them for life.
What Veterans Are Saying
“UTS didn’t just help me build a resume—they helped me build a vision.”
“Being surrounded by other veterans who ‘get it’ made all the difference.”
Ready to Launch?
If you’re an active-duty service member looking for your next mission—or a company looking to bring on veteran talent—we’d love to connect.
Learn more about our SkillBridge program
Partner with us as an employer or training site
Final Word
You served with purpose. Now it’s time to transition with purpose.
SkillBridge gives you the tools. Unturning Steel gives you the tribe. Together, we’ll help you write your next chapter—and make it your strongest one yet.
