Hey there, folks! I'm Ethan, a fellow service member, and I've rounded up the top 10 SkillBridge companies based on research, data, and reviews. If you're navigating the SkillBridge landscape or just in the research phase, stick around because I'm diving deep into what sets these companies apart. But before we jump in, I want to make it clear that these rankings are based on my own opinion, along with service member satisfaction, job placement rates, and overall program quality.
#10: DefendEdge
Overview: DefendEdge emerges as a rising star in the dynamic realm of cybersecurity, carving a niche as a rapidly growing company on the US cybercity scene. With a core mission centered around assembling a diverse team focused on safeguarding clients from cyber threats, DefendEdge stands out for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence.
Work-Life Balance: One of the standout features of DefendEdge, as highlighted by reviews on Rate My SkillBridge, is its dedication to maintaining a healthy work-life balance for its employees. Recognizing the demands of the industry, DefendEdge ensures that its team can fulfill their professional responsibilities without sacrificing personal well-being. This commitment to flexibility allows employees to manage VA appointments and spend quality time with their families, fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment.
Team Composition: Unlike traditional companies that may prioritize formal degrees, DefendEdge values personal drive, success, and aptitude in its team members. As a result, the company boasts a roster of highly talented individuals who possess the resilience and determination to tackle challenges head-on. This diverse and dynamic workforce contributes to DefendEdge's innovative solutions and its ability to adapt to evolving cybersecurity threats.
SkillBridge Program: DefendEdge's SkillBridge program offers a comprehensive training curriculum designed to equip participants with a solid foundation in cybersecurity. From fundamentals to advanced concepts, the program covers a wide range of topics through a blend of classroom-style learning and hands-on experience. Participants have the opportunity to delve into networking concepts, explore cybersecurity technologies, and gain practical insights into real-world scenarios.
On-the-Job Training: Upon completion of the initial training phase, participants are assigned to a team or "hive" where they continue to receive on-the-job training and support. Whether operating as managed security service providers (MSSPs) in a Security Operations Center (SOC) or undertaking cybersecurity projects, participants gain invaluable hands-on experience across various platforms, both hardware and software.
Daily Schedule: The day-to-day schedule at DefendEdge varies depending on the specific role and project requirements. However, participants can typically expect a Monday through Friday schedule from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with occasional weekend shifts. This flexibility allows individuals to balance their professional commitments with personal obligations, ensuring a harmonious work-life integration.
Career Opportunities: Beyond the SkillBridge program, DefendEdge offers promising career opportunities for participants who demonstrate dedication and proficiency during their internship. Many individuals report being offered positions within DefendEdge, highlighting the company's commitment to nurturing talent and fostering long-term professional growth.
#9: ServiceNow
Overview: ServiceNow stands out as a premier provider of virtual training programs, offering a transformative 16-week experience immersed in the ServiceNow platform. With a focus on equipping participants with in-demand skills and certifications, ServiceNow paves the way for career advancement in the rapidly evolving field of technology.
Intensive Training Program: At the core of ServiceNow's offering is an intensive 16-week virtual training program, comprising 40 hours of rigorous instruction per week. Participants are immersed in the ServiceNow platform, gaining hands-on experience and industry-recognized certifications that enhance their professional credentials.
Mentorship and Support: Throughout the program, participants benefit from personalized mentorship and support from seasoned professionals within the ServiceNow community. Mentors offer guidance on resume building, interview preparation, and navigating the job market, empowering participants to showcase their skills and secure rewarding employment opportunities.
Curriculum and Projects: The program curriculum encompasses a blend of personal and team projects, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Participants tackle real-world challenges, leveraging the ServiceNow platform to develop innovative solutions and hone their technical expertise.
Networking Opportunities: ServiceNow goes beyond training by fostering a vibrant community of professionals and partner companies. Through guest speakers, networking events, and partner collaborations, participants gain invaluable insights into industry trends and forge connections that pave the way for future career opportunities.
Post-Program Success: While there is no guarantee of employment with ServiceNow, participants emerge from the program equipped with valuable skills, certifications, and industry connections. Success post-program hinges on individual effort and dedication to continuous learning, with many graduates transitioning into rewarding careers within the ServiceNow ecosystem.
#8: Hiring Our Heroes
Overview: Hiring Our Heroes (HOH) stands out as a leading provider of career development opportunities, offering a comprehensive 12-week internship program designed to equip service members with valuable skills and hands-on experience. With a focus on professional training and industry partnerships, HOH opens doors to diverse career pathways and post-program employment opportunities.
Tailored Internship Experience: The HOH internship program is tailored to the specific skills and career goals of each participant, ensuring a customized and impactful experience. Through a meticulous matching process with participating host companies, service members are paired with organizations that align with their expertise and aspirations, setting the stage for meaningful learning and professional growth.
Hands-On Training and Experience: During the 12-week internship, participants gain invaluable hands-on experience through exclusive on-the-job training at host companies. From project management to technical skills development, participants are immersed in real-world scenarios, honing their abilities and expanding their professional repertoire under the guidance of industry experts.
Flexible Placement and Career Pathways: One of the key advantages of the HOH program is its flexibility in placement and career pathways. By matching service members with companies that may not be listed on traditional skill bridge platforms, HOH offers a wide range of opportunities in various industries and sectors. This flexibility allows participants to explore diverse career paths and potentially secure employment with host companies post-program completion.
Positive Participant Feedback: Feedback from participants in the HOH program has been overwhelmingly positive, with many citing the program as instrumental in their career advancement and transition to civilian life. Participants appreciate the personalized support, hands-on experience, and networking opportunities provided by HOH, which have paved the way for meaningful employment and professional success.
Reliability and Effectiveness: Despite some skepticism within the Department of Defense regarding the program's structure, HOH has proven to be a reliable and effective pathway to employment for service members. With a track record of success and a commitment to supporting veterans in their career journeys, HOH continues to be a trusted partner for service members seeking to unlock new opportunities and achieve their professional goals.
#7: Accenture Federal Services (AFS)
Overview: Accenture Federal Services (AFS) emerges as a prominent consulting company, specializing in implementation and offering stability through long-term projects across various sectors. With a focus on national security, defense, civilian services, public safety, and federal health, AFS provides a platform for service members to embark on rewarding career pathways in the federal sector.
Diverse Career Opportunities: AFS boasts a wide array of job opportunities, catering to diverse skill sets and career interests. From project management to technical consulting, AFS offers roles that align with service members' expertise and aspirations, providing avenues for professional growth and development within the federal landscape.
Stability and Benefits: One of the standout features of AFS is its emphasis on stability and employee benefits. With long-term project durations and benefits such as overtime pay for hours beyond 40 per week, AFS offers a secure and rewarding work environment for service members seeking stability and financial security in their careers.
Opportunities for Advancement: While navigating government projects may involve dealing with red tape and bureaucracy, AFS provides opportunities for advancement and career progression within the organization. With a focus on continuous learning and development, AFS empowers employees to expand their skill sets and take on new challenges, paving the way for long-term career success.
Employee Satisfaction: Employee reviews highlight the stability and longer project durations at AFS, with many expressing satisfaction with the work environment and benefits offered by the company. While challenges may exist, employees appreciate the opportunities for growth and the sense of fulfillment that comes with making a meaningful impact in the federal sector.
#6: Agiliti Health
Overview: Agiliti Health emerges as a leading healthcare-focused company, offering a unique Skillbridge program designed to provide hands-on experience and career pathways within the healthcare sector. With a mission centered on ensuring critical equipment availability and elevating patient care, Agility Health provides service members with an opportunity to make a tangible impact in the healthcare industry.
Diverse Career Paths: Agiliti Health's Skillbridge program offers participants diverse career paths within the healthcare sector, with opportunities to contribute to critical equipment availability across a wide range of healthcare settings. From hospitals to clinics and healthcare facilities nationwide, Agility Health provides service members with the chance to gain valuable hands-on experience and make a difference in patient care.
Competitive Compensation and Benefits: Participants in Agility Health's Skillbridge program can expect competitive compensation and benefits, including potential salary offers and relocation packages. While competitive positions such as field service engineer roles may involve travel and overtime, Agility Health rewards participants for their dedication and commitment to improving healthcare outcomes.
Hands-On Training and Experience: One of the key highlights of Agility Health's Skillbridge program is its emphasis on hands-on training and experience. Participants have the opportunity to work directly with critical healthcare equipment and technologies, gaining practical skills and knowledge that are highly valued in the healthcare industry. From equipment maintenance to troubleshooting, Agility Health provides participants with a comprehensive learning experience that prepares them for rewarding careers in healthcare.
Passionate and Supportive Community: Agiliti Health fosters a passionate and supportive community of healthcare professionals dedicated to improving patient care. Participants in the Skillbridge program have the opportunity to collaborate with experienced healthcare professionals and make meaningful contributions to healthcare delivery. With a focus on teamwork and innovation, Agility Health cultivates a culture of excellence and continuous improvement, empowering participants to succeed in their post-military careers.
#5: Northrop Grumman
Overview: Northrop Grumman, a renowned contracting organization, offers a prestigious Skillbridge program aimed at providing service members with up to 180 days of valuable civilian work experience. With a focus on high-impact projects and long-term career opportunities, Northrop Grumman stands as a top choice for service members seeking to elevate their careers in the defense and technology sectors.
Wide Range of Opportunities: Northrop Grumman's Skillbridge program provides participants with access to a wide range of opportunities across various sectors, including defense, technology, aerospace, and cybersecurity. From engineering to project management and research, service members can explore diverse roles and gain invaluable experience in high-profile projects.
Hands-On Experience and Training: At the heart of Northrop Grumman's Skillbridge program is its emphasis on hands-on experience and training. Participants have the opportunity to work alongside industry experts and contribute to real-world projects, gaining practical skills and knowledge that are highly sought after in the defense and technology sectors. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technologies, service members receive comprehensive training that prepares them for successful careers post-military service.
Pathway to Employment: Northrop Grumman's Skillbridge program serves as a pathway to employment for many participants, with the potential for job offers upon completion of the program. By demonstrating commitment, dedication, and exceptional performance during their internship, service members increase their chances of securing employment with Northrop Grumman or other prestigious organizations in the defense and technology industries.
Professional Development and Networking: In addition to hands-on experience, Northrop Grumman's Skillbridge program offers participants access to professional development opportunities and networking events. Through mentorship programs, career coaching sessions, and industry networking events, service members can expand their professional network and gain valuable insights into career advancement opportunities within the defense and technology sectors.
#4: Warrior Training Advancement Course (WARTAC)
Overview: Warrior Training Advancement Course (WARTAC) stands out as a specialized Skillbridge program meticulously designed for Wounded Warriors and transitioning service members aiming to excel within the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA). This innovative initiative offers participants the opportunity to undergo comprehensive VBA training, honing the skill set necessary to thrive as Rating Veteran Service Representatives (RVSRs) or Veteran Service Representatives (VSRs).
Pathway to Promising Careers: WARTAC not only provides exceptional training but also opens the door to promising career paths within the VBA. Participants have the chance to secure positions at one of the 55 VBA Regional Offices nationwide, ensuring a wide range of employment opportunities aligned with their skills and aspirations. With a focus on long-term career growth and advancement within the federal government, WARTAC offers a clear pathway to success for veterans seeking meaningful employment.
Empowering Veterans with Job Security: One of the most significant benefits of WARTAC is its commitment to providing job security and stability for veterans. By offering a direct career path within the federal government, participants can transition into coveted GS positions (such as GS7 or GS9), ensuring a stable and fulfilling career dedicated to serving the country and fellow veterans. The program's emphasis on quality career opportunities underscores its dedication to empowering veterans and fostering a sense of mission and purpose.
Testimonials of Success and Satisfaction: WARTAC has garnered praise from numerous veterans who have benefitted from its tailored training and career opportunities. Many participants have lauded the program for its immersive experience and the job security it provides post-completion. With its focus on delivering high-quality training and facilitating meaningful employment within the VBA, WARTAC continues to be a beacon of hope for veterans seeking to transition into civilian careers with confidence and purpose.
#3: Microsoft Software and Systems Academy (MSSA)
Overview: Microsoft Software and Systems Academy (MSSA) stands as a premier Skillbridge program dedicated to equipping service members and veterans with critical technical skills for lucrative careers in the technology sector. With an impressive 95% graduation rate and a remarkable 97% employment rate post-completion, MSSA has emerged as a leading platform for transitioning military personnel seeking to thrive in the tech industry.
Specialized Learning Paths: MSSA offers a comprehensive 17-week technical training program that introduces participants to various learning paths, including Cloud Application Development, Server and Cloud Administration, and Cybersecurity Operations. Each curriculum is meticulously designed to align with the hiring demands of Microsoft and its partners, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to excel in their chosen field upon completion of the program.
Holistic Professional Development: Beyond technical training, MSSA prioritizes holistic professional development to prepare participants for successful careers in the tech industry. The program incorporates live virtual instruction, hands-on labs, and industry-recognized certifications, providing a robust foundation for participants to pursue lucrative tech careers. Additionally, MSSA offers comprehensive support in career planning, resume writing, interview techniques, and job search strategies, empowering veterans to navigate the competitive tech job market with confidence.
Gateway to Prestigious Opportunities: Graduates of MSSA not only acquire valuable technical skills but also gain access to prestigious employment opportunities within Microsoft and its partner companies. With Microsoft's global reputation and influence in the tech industry, MSSA graduates are highly sought after by employers, offering them a pathway to lucrative and fulfilling careers in technology. Despite the program's demanding schedule, participants attest to its immense value and the career opportunities it unlocks, making MSSA a top choice for veterans seeking to transition into thriving careers in the tech sector.
#2: The KYO Group
Structured Skillbridge Program with Personalized Support: The KYO Group offers a structured Skillbridge program designed to assist transitioning service members in their journey to civilian employment. With a focus on veteran support, this veteran-owned organization provides personalized guidance and training to help veterans successfully transition into new career paths.
Flexibility and Career Exploration: Participants in the KYO program have the flexibility to choose from a variety of courses directly offered by the KYO Group or opt for opportunities with partnered companies. This flexibility allows veterans to explore different career paths, whether in human resources, project management, or IT, without the need for prior experience. Remote positions are also available, offering veterans the freedom to manage VA appointments and smoothly transition into civilian life.
Comprehensive Training and Preparation: The KYO program prioritizes comprehensive training and preparation for job placement, ensuring that veterans are equipped with the skills and resources they need to succeed in the civilian workforce. From resume building to career placement assistance, the KYO Group offers a range of support services to help veterans navigate the job market and secure meaningful employment opportunities.
Success Stories and Career Pathways: Many participants of the KYO program have reported being offered positions with partnered companies upon completion of the program. These success stories highlight the effectiveness of the KYO Group in guiding veterans towards new career pathways and opportunities. With a dedication to training, preparation, and veteran support, the KYO Group serves as a valuable resource for veterans seeking to transition into civilian employment and embark on new horizons in their post-military careers.
#1: AllegiantVets
A Unique Approach to Skillbridge: Allegiant Vets stands out as a pioneer in redefining the Skillbridge program, offering a different approach focused on flexibility and support for veterans seeking a break from the traditional 9 to 5 work structure. Unlike traditional Skillbridge programs that primarily focus on job placement, Allegiant Vets emphasizes providing resources and support to veterans as they transition into civilian life.
Emphasis on Flexibility: One of the key features of Allegiant Vets is its emphasis on flexibility, allowing veterans to take time for themselves, their families, and their personal goals. The program structure requires minimal check-ins, providing participants with the freedom to pursue online courses, certifications, or personal projects at their own pace. This flexibility offers veterans a much-needed break from the rigors of military life and the demands of the traditional workforce.
Networking and Supportive Community: Allegiant Vets serves as a powerful networking tool, connecting veterans with other like-minded individuals and employers. With thousands of participants in the program at any given time, Allegiant Vets provides access to job fairs, resume building assistance, and career guidance. The supportive community ensures that veterans have the resources they need to succeed in their post-military careers.
Career Opportunity and Job Security: While Allegiant Vets does not guarantee job placement, it offers veterans a guaranteed opportunity to explore their interests, pursue personal goals, and gain valuable skills. This eliminates the stress of unanswered job applications and provides veterans with a sense of security as they transition into civilian life. With AllegiantVets, veterans can take a step back, focus on their personal growth, and chart their own path to success in the civilian workforce. Not only that, but the team at AllegiantVets also assists veterans finding lucrative careers if needed.
If you've made it this far, I truly appreciate your time! I'm the founder of RateMySkillBridge, and I'm passionate about giving veterans a voice in their SkillBridge experiences. If you found this article helpful, please share our website with everyone you know that has completed the skillbridge program to leave a review on their experience. Also consider checking out Rate My SkillBridge on LinkedIn and give us a follow! Your support means the world, and I look forward to bringing you more content in the future.
