The clock is ticking. You have a limited window – until April 1st – to submit your agency’s application for the Department of Defense SkillBridge program. This opportunity won’t return until October.
In today’s competitive landscape, attracting high-caliber recruits requires a strategic, proactive approach. Simply attending career fairs is no longer sufficient. You need to demonstrate why your agency is the ideal career destination for transitioning military personnel.
Why Military Veterans?
We all know the inherent value they bring: physical fitness, impeccable backgrounds, and unwavering commitment to service. But their advantages go beyond the obvious. They boast exceptional retention rates, staying with agencies an average of 3-5 years longer than their civilian counterparts.
Crucially, law enforcement aligns perfectly with their post-service aspirations. A recent study revealed that:
- 70% of transitioning service members prioritize “finding a job” and “finding a purposeful career.”
- “Parting ways with friends in the military” ranks as a top concern, highlighting their desire for camaraderie and a strong sense of belonging.
Your agency can provide the purpose and community they seek. But are you effectively communicating this?
SkillBridge: Your Strategic Advantage
The SkillBridge program offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with these highly qualified individuals during their final 180 days of service. Participation is surging, from 4,600 in 2017 to 22,000 last year. Competition is fierce, with over 150 law enforcement agencies now participating, up from just 13 in 2021.
Why SkillBridge Matters Now:
- Address Transition Anxiety: Service members face immense uncertainty as they leave the military. SkillBridge provides a “soft landing,” allowing you to build relationships and secure their commitment before they explore other options.
- Early Access to Talent: SkillBridge allows you to begin the training process well before their official separation date.
- Pre-Academy Training: A well designed Skillbridge program allows you to prepare them for the academy and not just get them to the academy.
Don’t Make the Common Mistake:
Many agencies treat SkillBridge as a mere cost-saving measure, rushing recruits into the academy. This approach misses critical opportunities:
- Building lasting relationships and fostering loyalty.
- Showcasing your department’s unique strengths and addressing their core needs.
- Providing comprehensive pre-academy preparation for long term success.
Police Hiring Solutions: Your Partner in Success
We go beyond simply navigating the SkillBridge approval process. We partner with your agency to:
- Develop a tailored SkillBridge program that aligns with your specific needs.
- Craft compelling messaging that resonates with transitioning service members.
- Design an effective outreach and selection process.
- Equip your team with the tools and expertise to ensure program sustainability.
Time is of the essence. The April 1st deadline is rapidly approaching.
Don’t miss this crucial opportunity to secure the best and brightest for your agency.
Contact Police Hiring Solutions today to learn how we can help you maximize your SkillBridge participation and build a force for the future.