Marines planning on joining the civilian workforce can take advantage of credentialing opportunities and employment training up to the last day of active duty.  DoD SkillBridge and Marine Corps Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) are tools that enhance a Marine’s ability to securing meaningful employment with a higher starting salary.

Services

DoD SkillBridge

The DoD SkillBridge program is an opportunity for Service members to gain valuable civilian work experience through specific industry training, apprenticeships, or internships during the last 180 days of service. SkillBridge connects Service members with industry partners in real-world job experiences. MARADMIN 350/18

• Marines report to the SkillBridge industry partner for the duration of the internship or employment training.
• Receive industry recognized job training, employment skills training, apprenticeships and internships leading to employment in high demand job fields.

Marine Corps Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL)

Marine Corps COOL provide Active Duty Marines, Veterans and Spouses a one stop resource to research and locate industry recognized certifications.  Active Duty Enlisted Marines receive 100% funding for qualified certification testing up to six months prior to EAS/Retirement.  MARADMIN 583/15

• Service members receive unlimited funding for qualified certifications based on formal Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) and Collateral Duty training.
• Industry recognized leadership credentials that provide civilian agencies verification of human resources and managerial experience.

United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP)

USMAP enhances employment opportunities by documenting military job skills and experience through the Department of Labor (DOL) registered apprenticeship program.  Having a DOL Certificate of Completion of Apprenticeship is a definite advantage in landing a civilian job at a higher starting salary.  Employers know the value of apprenticeships.  

• Apprenticeships expand career options and build on your military experience by having immediate supervisors verify the ability to perform required duties and task.
• At the completion of the apprenticeship, Marines receive a certificate and have a documented work history that can be used as a supplement to resumes, award nominations and military promotion boards.

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See Also

• Transition Readiness
• Marine for Life Network

• Family Member Employment Assistance