DoD SkillBridge is one of the most cost-effective ways to hire military talent: you get a months-long working interview with a motivated service member, and the Department of Defense keeps paying their salary the entire time.
What SkillBridge is
SkillBridge is a Department of Defense authorization that allows service members to spend up to their final 180 days of service in civilian training with an approved employer. The member keeps their military pay and benefits; the employer provides real, meaningful work and training. It is a win on both sides — the service member gains civilian experience, and the employer evaluates a candidate with no payroll cost.
Why employers use it
Three reasons stand out. First, cost: you are not paying the participant's salary during the program. Second, risk: it works like an extended working interview, so you see performance before you commit to a hire. Third, quality: SkillBridge candidates are disciplined, security-minded, and used to learning fast under real accountability.
How to become a host
At a high level: apply to the DoD SkillBridge program, define the roles and a training plan that offers genuine skill development, and connect with transitioning service members whose separation timeline fits your opening. DoD accepts new host applications only during set enrollment periods, requires hosts to have been in business at least three years (government employers excepted), and asks each host to take a minimum number of participants a year and to offer jobs to at least 75% of those who complete the program. Check skillbridge.mil for the current enrollment dates. Because the paperwork and sourcing can be unfamiliar, many employers work with a veteran-focused partner to design the opportunity and line up candidates. Confirm current program requirements on the official DoD SkillBridge site before you build your plan.
How LockLeed helps
As a veteran-owned staffing firm, LockLeed helps employers shape SkillBridge roles, source qualified transitioning service members, and convert strong performers into direct hires when the program ends. If you want a repeatable veteran pipeline rather than a one-off, this is a strong place to start.