How M3 and the SkillBridge Program Are Shaping Future Careers for Military Service Members in Transition
M3 is proud to participate in the DOD SkillBridge program, an initiative supporting military members transitioning into civilian careers. Tristan Barbour, a 26-year-old U.S. Air Force veteran, has spent the past five and a half years serving his country. As he approaches the end of his active-duty service, he has chosen to embark on a new journey with M3 as an Intern in the Human Resources department. Tristan’s transition is not only a personal milestone but also a significant achievement for M3, as it marks the company’s participation in the Department of Defense (DOD) SkillBridge program.
About the DOD SkillBridge Program
SkillBridge is a vital initiative that connects service members nearing the end of their military service with industry partners through apprenticeships, internships, and industry-specific training. This allows transitioning military personnel to gain hands-on civilian work experience during their final 180 days of active duty. Importantly, while participating in SkillBridge, service members continue to receive military support, allowing companies like M3 to benefit from a highly skilled and motivated workforce as they transition into civilian careers.
For service members, SkillBridge offers a unique opportunity to develop valuable skills and transition smoothly into the civilian workforce. For companies, it provides a chance to recruit, evaluate, and nurture talent with military discipline, dedication, and experience. However, the success of this program hinges on both military approval and the willingness of companies to accept and support these transitioning service members.
Tristan’s Journey and Why M3 Was the Right Fit
For Tristan, the thought of returning to civilian life after over five years of active duty was both exciting and daunting. He knew he wanted to get a head start in building his new career while still fulfilling his military obligations. Having always been drawn to the human resources industry, Tristan was eager to find a position that would challenge him and allow him to put his leadership and communication skills to good use. After managing financial assets for the Air Force, he felt confident about the next chapter in his professional life, but the journey wasn’t easy.
Tristan spent months searching for the right job, applying to hundreds of positions, and participating in numerous interviews. Many companies were hesitant about his application due to his limited civilian work experience—a common challenge faced by many transitioning service members. Despite his extensive experience managing people and processes in the Air Force, some companies were not open to candidates with military backgrounds and less conventional career paths.
However, M3 is different. From the first phone call, Tristan felt an immediate connection with the company. M3 stood out not only because they recognized his unique qualifications, but also because they embraced his military background and were fully supportive of his participation in the SkillBridge program. Tristan was searching for an accepting, inclusive workplace where his experience would be valued, and M3 provided just that. The company’s willingness to support Tristan through the DOD SkillBridge program speaks volumes about its commitment to fostering growth, inclusivity, and diverse experiences within its workforce.
Tristan’s path to securing this opportunity at M3 was anything but easy. He is the first person from his unit to receive his Chief’s approval to participate in the DOD SkillBridge program. This makes his journey even more significant, as it not only paves the way for future service members to follow in his footsteps but also sets a new standard for excellence within his military unit. His determination to challenge himself and pursue a new career path, combined with M3’s support, exemplifies what is possible when companies like M3 actively participate in programs like SkillBridge.
M3’s Commitment to Inclusivity and Continued Growth
Tristan’s journey with M3 marks a pivotal step in both his career and the company’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, diverse workforce. M3’s acceptance of Tristan for this HR internship highlights the company’s dedication to supporting veterans and creating opportunities for people from all walks of life. By participating in the DOD SkillBridge program, M3 continues to demonstrate its commitment to hiring transitioning service members and committing to their long-term development and success. This decision reflects the company’s inclusive culture—one that values diversity, encourages personal and professional growth, and recognizes the potential in every employee, regardless of their background. Through this collaboration, M3 is setting a strong example of how companies can embrace and support veterans as they embark on new professional paths.
