From Service to Success: How VETCOMM is Helping Veterans Transition to Civilian Careers

Transitioning from military service to civilian life can often be one of the most challenging time periods for service members. After years of structured schedules, specialized roles and close-knit community, many find themselves grappling with uncertainty, decision fatigue and a sense of disconnection. One of the most significant hurdles during this transition is finding meaningful employment–a process complicated by the unique challenges veterans encounter.

The specialized roles that service members take on while in active duty may not provide them with skills that transfer well into civilian roles. It could also be the first time a service member is navigating the civilian job market, writing a resume or preparing for an interview.

To address these barriers, VETCOMM has partnered with the Department of Defense’s (DOD) SkillBridge program. The program offers transitioning service members hands-on civilian work experience during their final 180 days of active duty. This initiative allows participants to explore potential career paths while still receiving military pay and benefits. For employers like VETCOMM, SkillBridge provides access to a highly trained and motivated workforce at no additional cost.

Since becoming an official SkillBridge partner in December 2023, VETCOMM has hosted 14 service members in the program. Eight of these participants have accepted full-time roles within the company–a testament to SkillBridge’s effectiveness in preparing veterans for civilian careers while supporting VETCOMM's mission to help veterans secure their VA benefits.

A service member has two position paths to choose from at VETCOMM: Claims Associate or IT Manager. These roles provide participants with valuable experience in fields that align with their interests and skills. VETCOMM is also planning to expand its offerings to include more career options in the near future.

Andrew Marian, a recent participant in VETCOMM's SkillBridge program, exemplifies the program’s impact. After serving for four years as a Marine Corps Captain (O3) for four years, Marian is getting hands-on experience as an IT Manager at VETCOMM.

“The SkillBridge program is important, since it allows military personnel the opportunity to gracefully transition into corporate America,” says Marian. “Many military personnel have trouble adjusting and finding a new job outside of the military, so having a program that sets them up for success on the outside is essential.”

The decision to join SkillBridge stemmed from VETCOMM CEO Kate Monroe’s commitment to easing veterans’ transition into civilian life. Monroe recognized that employment is one of the greatest hurdles veterans face after service and saw SkillBridge as an opportunity to provide them with tools, experience and support.

“We’ve seen firsthand how difficult the transition from military to civilian life can be, especially when it comes to finding a career,” says Monroe. “That’s why partnering with the SkillBridge program was so important to us. It’s about giving service members the tools, experience and support they need to succeed in the next phase of their lives.”

Transitioning from military service is fraught with challenges–both personal and professional–but programs like SkillBridge offer a lifeline for veterans navigating this critical period. By providing hands-on experience, mentorship and career opportunities to service members, VETCOMM is doing its part to support our veterans and strengthen the workforce with the unique skills and dedication that veterans bring to the table.