How to know if a company is veteran-friendly (before you apply)


For Employers

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Not every company understands the value of your military experience.

And not every company has experience with veterans.

Whether you're pursuing a SkillBridge internship or a full-time role after separation, you want to land somewhere that values everything you bring to the table (and pays you for it).

During your job search, you can look into how much a company hires and supports military veterans.

Not all companies will have the same programs.

And this doesn't mean that companies without these programs don't value military experience.

But, there are some positive green flags you can look for.

For example, if a company is part of SkillBridge, it’s a great sign that a company is invested in transitioning servicemembers.

Why?

The program requires effort and commitment on a company’s behalf.

So when a company decides to roll out a program like SkillBridge, it demonstrates a genuine investment in the veteran community and a deeper understanding of the value veterans can bring to their company.

A few other things you can look for -

  • Veteran Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): These internal communities are designed to support veteran employees by offering mentorship, networking, and guidance. A strong ERG is a signal that the company doesn’t just hire vets, but that they create space for them to grow and lead.
  • Featured Veterans: Companies that value veteran employees will often spotlight their stories - look for blog posts, video testimonials, or SkillBridge success stories!
  • SkillBridge or military hiring program info: A veteran-friendly company will usually mention SkillBridge directly on their website or careers page. If they are looking for SkillBridge interns, it means they’re familiar with hiring people with military experience.


Extra help: If you're interested in or actively interviewing for a company, other veterans at the company can be a great source of information.

Most veterans will be willing to share honest feedback of their experience to someone looking to start a similar journey.

Want to find other veterans at a company on LinkedIn?
- Use the search bar at the top of LinkedIn and type in the company name.
- Once you’re on their company page, click the “People” tab.
- From there, search terms like “veteran,” “U.S. Army,” “Marine Corps,” "SkillBridge"
- You can also filter by past experience to see who has military service listed in their background.

Once you find someone, a short message will help you get connected. Try something like “Hey Mark, I am currently transitioning out of the [Army] and interviewing with [Company]. Would be great to connect with a fellow veteran and hear your experience.”


The job hunt is hard enough.

Companies that have experience hiring veterans may be more understanding of the value of your background (and have had positive experiences with other veterans that will reflect well on you!)

SkillBridge is a perfect time for you to add to the impact other veterans have made at a company.

Plus, it is your chance to evaluate the employer just as much as they’re evaluating you.

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Featured Jobs:

📍 San Diego, CA - Improvised Electronics is looking for a EOD Technology Instructor. In this role, participants will develop a specialized curriculum on the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) applications of technical skills such as Fusion 360, 3D printing, DC electronics, Arduino, or CNC milling.

📍 Baltimore, MD - ST Engineering is hiring for a NDT Supervisor to oversee the planning, development, implementation, maintenance, and process for conducting nondestructive testing to aircrafts material, components, and assemblies.

📍Colorado Springs, CO - Bowhead Systems is looking for a Missile Warning Instructor to provide support of the Joint Ballistic Missile Defense Training and Education Center at Schriever AFB.

Want to get your company's SkillBridge job featured? Just hit reply.

💬 Community & Networking

Looking for support during your transition? Join our Discord to connect with fellow transitioning veterans and share tips, resources, and job leads.

Have other friends getting out soon? Forward them this newsletter so they can sign up here!

We’re here to support you every step of the way as you transition from military service to civilian success.

Keep an eye out for future editions with more opportunities, tips, and resources!

Have a great week!

Kathy + Andrew
Career PCS

SkillBridge Navigators

Get tips, strategies and resources for getting out along with the hottest SkillBridge postings.

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