The DoD SkillBridge Program Bridges the Gap for Transitioning Service Members
Approximately 200,000 service members navigate the challenging transition from military to civilian life each year and MCCS Lejeune-New River's SkillBridge Program Coordinator, Sherry Anthony, is here to help.
The Department of Defense (DoD) recognized the significant impact the transition process can have on service members and has implemented measures to provide the necessary tools and resources to facilitate a smoother transition. In 2011, the DoD launched the standout initiative DoD SkillBridge program. This innovative program has made significant strides in easing the transition for military personnel. Since its creation, the DoD program has served over 100,000 service members. The first half of the 2024 fiscal year saw more than 12,000 service members engage in SkillBridge, 83% of those being enlisted personnel. At Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune and Marine Corps Air Station New River combined, an average of 75 service members enroll in the SkillBridge program each month.
Sherry Anthony is MCCS Lejeune-New River's dedicated SkillBridge Program Coordinator, who ensures service members receive current and accurate information about the program. "The SkillBridge program offers a range of careers, from commercial truck driving opportunities to welding and management positions. "There are currently over 8,000 programs to choose from, and the list is constantly expanding," said Anthony.
Service members exploring the SkillBridge program are encouraged to attend a weekly SkillBridge Information Session. Led by Ms. Anthony, this comprehensive workshop provides applicants with tools to navigate the entire process—from initial command routing to final approval. Service members who attend will gain valuable insights into utilizing the program, identifying suitable opportunities tailored to their needs, obtaining their DD214, and more. The MCCS Lejeune-New River SkillBridge Program Coordinator's support extends beyond MCB Camp Lejeune and MCAS New River installations, encompassing deployed personnel, those at remote locations such as recruit stations and I&I facilities, and OCONUS service members.
"With no prerequisites, service members can attend a SkillBridge information session as often as they want. The class also covers various non-SkillBridge programs available to active duty service members. Successful applicants attend the Camp Lejeune SkillBridge Information Session up to 2 years before their EAS, allowing time to plan for the future. "
A valuable benefit of the SkillBridge Program is that it allows service members to participate in training, apprenticeships, or internships before their End of Service (EAS). The program provides participants with military benefits while gaining hands-on experience in civilian career fields and helps create a clear path between military service and civilian employment. "SkillBridge is a unique opportunity to get a head start on a new career and greatly reduces the stress that comes from wondering where the next paycheck will come from," Anthony noted.