I just finished registering our company with the Department of Defense SkillBridge program. Each branch of service is different in how they handle it. So far I've contacted the Navy and Sailors can now come work for me for up to 6 months while active duty and receiving full pay and benefits from the Navy. They work unpaid by me but learn on the job. After the program I can offer them a job if they meet my criteria. All they need to do now is have an approved special request chit from their command. Pretty cool. 

The process is you fill out the MOU (already written you just fill in some blanks) which requires very little from you. You submit the MOU and the help desk will ask you a few questions via email. Then the DOD will sign the MOU. You then receive the option to register on their interactive map and the contact info for each branches SkillBridge representative to find out how they handle it.

The benefits to the member are a smoother transition to civilian life while not having an abrupt stop in pay, a move, and a job change all at the time. While also learning a new skill. Plenty of military members don’t plan to go to college after their service. You’d have to accept the member into your program after they contacted you so it’s not a free for all either. 

I use the SkillBridge program for our company.  Anyone can apply. It lets active duty members who are separating or retiring work for a company for up to 180 days while still in active duty pay.  Once you complete the MOU in about 2 weeks you’ll receive a survey. In the survey they ask for a training plan. After that it takes 2-3 months for approval. Then you’ll get a link to post yourself in the webpage/map listing.

I have SIX interns showing up in November. They all told me I am the only company even responding to them. I’ve had nothing but crazy hard workers during this program. Currently on my 3rd intern.

 They receive full pay and healthcare coverage while working for you from the military.

 Cannot work them over 40 hours.

 Cannot pay them yourself.

 Must offer them a job that starts when the program ends. They do not have to accept. You’re allowed to not offer 15% of your interns and not be removed from the program.