SkillBridge at Polk State College

What is SkillBridge?

The U.S. Department of War (DoW) SkillBridge program offers transitioning service members the chance to gain valuable civilian work experience through industry training, apprenticeships or internships during their last 90-180 days of service. SkillBridge connects these service members with industry partners for real-world job experiences. Service members continue to receive their military compensation and benefits while industry partners provide the civilian training and work experience.

For service members, DoW SkillBridge offers an invaluable chance to work and learn in civilian career areas. For industry partners, it provides access to the world’s most highly trained and motivated workforce at no cost.

Installation and unit commanders who have members about to transition from active duty, bridge the gap between their service members’ end of service and the beginning of their civilian careers with the DoW SkillBridge participation. Commanders ease this military-to-civilian transition period for their members when they permit SkillBridge participation with trusted employers.

Service members can be granted up to 180 days of permissive duty to focus solely on training full-time with Polk State College after their chain of command, field grade commander, provides written authorization and approval. Polk State College offers real-world training and in-demand work experience while having the opportunity to evaluate the service member’s suitability for future employment.

Polk State College SkillBridge Program

The Polk State College SkillBridge Program equips transitioning service members with advanced skills, training and practical experience to support a seamless transition into civilian employment. The program also aligns with the Polk State College Strategic Plan by increasing institutional resources and efficiency to drive operational excellence. Through this initiative, Polk State will honor and serve veterans by providing exceptional opportunities for those who have served our great nation.

Program Details:

    • Availability: SkillBridge opportunities are based on availability, with new roles added as demand grows.
    • Duration: Industry experts lead our 90–180 day internship, providing instruction, coaching and hands-on training to help participants put their newly learned skills into practice.
    • Training: Interns participate in employee training and professional development activities under the direct guidance of college personnel.

Note: At the moment, remote positions are not being offered with Polk State’s SkillBridge Program.

Possible Internship Opportunities

The College’s departments below are for informational purposes only and provide details about various organizations within Polk State College. To apply for an internship, complete and submit the SkillBridge Internship form. Do not contact the listed departments directly.

    • Finance
    • Student Services
    • Student Financial Aid
    • Human Resources
    • Marketing and Communication
    • Athletics
    • Facilities Management
    • IT/Network Management

Contact information:
Cody Gatliff
DoW SkillBridge Program Manager
863.297.1000
skillbridge@polk.edu