SkillBridge Program

The City of Chesapeake's SkillBridge Program gives Active-Duty military members who will soon transition into civilian life a chance to gain valuable work experience through specific industry training and development. The City of Chesapeake is proud to be an authorized SkillBridge organization through the Department of Defense (DOD), bridging the skills of service members to their new civilian careers.

Active-Duty military members can participate anytime during their final 180 days of service. The program is designed to provide the candidate and the City value in a strategic skillset match, candidate development, and a path to potential regular employment. Ultimately, we are looking for transitioning service members to join our team after completion of the program in numerous job categories. Military members who are considering participating in the program can search our careers site to see what positions may be of interest.

Hiring and Investing in Veterans

Kelvin Foye, a Senior Human Resources Manager at the City of Chesapeake, remembers what it was like to make the transition to the civilian job market. He completed 20 years of combined active and reserve service in the Army and then joined the City of Chesapeake in 2014.

“Entering the job market was a scary situation because there were so many things to consider. I knew I had skills, but I was unsure how they would transfer or what level of job I should apply for?” “I had to really dig deep, do my research and reach out to individuals who I knew could answer my questions about the transition.”

The City of Chesapeake's SkillBridge Program aims to ease the process and help service members find a sense of belonging at the City.

“These individuals come from all walks of life, representing a wide variety of socio-economic backgrounds, genders, religions and races,” says Allison Myers, Human Resources Director. “They also bring with them translatable practical, hands-on experience, leadership skills and discipline that is unique to military service and extremely valuable in our City.”

This support for service members taking their next career step contributes to the City of Chesapeake’s success and ensuring that we continue to be an exceptional place to live, learn, work, farm, and play.

FAQ'S

Am I eligible for the City of Chesapeake SkillBridge Program?

Service members must be able to complete the program within their last 180 days of military service and must also obtain approval from their chain of command, which varies by each Branch of the Military. Such Branch Commanders may approve or disapprove participation by a service member based upon unit mission requirements.

What opportunities does the City of Chesapeake SkillBridge Program offer?

The goal of the City of Chesapeake's SkillBridge Program is to find a great match by aligning the candidate and interests of the City. We are looking for transitioning service members to join our team in numerous job categories.

Who is the ideal candidate for the City of Chesapeake SkillBridge Program?

The goal of the SkillBridge Program is for transitioning members of the military to secure career opportunities they love within the City of Chesapeake. To be successful in the program, we look for those who are willing to explore new challenges and embrace this opportunity of on-the-job training as an effective way to translate your skills from one industry to another.

Where and when does the City of Chesapeake SkillBridge Program take place?

SkillBridge opportunities are based on current needs of the City. While we cannot guarantee that you will be placed into the program, if you are selected for an interview for the SkillBridge Program, you will be contacted regarding next steps. We appreciate your interest and look forward to hearing from you.

How do I apply?

Please complete the SkillBridge Candidate Information Form located at https://forms.office.com/g/dE8reAUpNt and submit all required documents. Once received and reviewed you will be contacted to discuss potential SkillBridge opportunities at the City of Chesapeake.  

Additional information regarding the DOD SkillBridge Program can be found at https://skillbridge.osd.mil/