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FSWEP, SkillBridge, and Beyond: Your Guide to Getting ‘Bridged’ into a Government or Tech Role

Introduction

August 4, 2025
Reviewed By Product Expert and Coach Elizabeth Hogue

Looking to jumpstart your career in government or tech? Programs like FSWEP, SkillBridge, and Bridged offer tailored pathways for students, military personnel, and career changers. Here's what you need to know:

  • FSWEP: A federal program for students to gain hands-on government experience. Open to full-time students with no prior work experience required.
  • SkillBridge: A Department of Defense initiative for active-duty service members transitioning to civilian roles. Offers up to 180 days of paid, on-the-job training with over 6,300 partner organizations.
  • Bridged: A career guidance platform helping individuals identify skill gaps, explore career options, and find certifications to match their goals.

Each program addresses a specific career stage, from students seeking government roles to military members transitioning into civilian jobs. Ready to take the next step? Keep reading for details on eligibility, application processes, and tips for success.

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FSWEP: How to Get Government Work Experience

FSWEP

The Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) stands as the largest student employment initiative within the U.S. federal government, employing over 7,000 students annually from a pool of 50,000 applicants. This program provides students with a direct opportunity to gain practical experience in government roles, serving as a stepping stone for those aspiring to build a career in public service. Think of it as a counterpart to SkillBridge for military personnel - offering a structured pathway to long-term opportunities in the federal sector.

Who Can Apply and How to Apply

FSWEP is open to all full-time students, and the best part? No prior work experience is required. To qualify, you must be a full-time student who plans to return to full-time studies in the next academic term and meet the minimum age requirement for your state or territory of employment. While preference is given to U.S. citizens and permanent residents, all applicants must meet the job-specific requirements.

The application process kicks off by creating a profile on the U.S. government's job application system through the Public Service Commission (PSC) portal. Once your profile is submitted, it enters a candidate pool where hiring managers can search for matches. If your profile aligns with their needs, you may be contacted for tests or interviews.

Liz Bailey, a Recruitment Officer with the Federal Public Service Commission, shared her experience with FSWEP:

"I thought I would graduate and go into the private sector. But after being hired in the government, getting some experience and networking with people, I realized it was a better fit for me. I was fortunate to get a full-time job after graduation. There definitely are opportunities for full-time work in the government for new graduates."

To improve your chances, keep your profile up to date - especially your contact details and academic status - and check your email regularly for communication from hiring managers.

Job Types and Career Fields

FSWEP provides opportunities across more than 200 federal departments and agencies. The roles span a variety of career fields, including administrative support, health services, research, and IT. Students can work full-time or part-time during summer breaks, part-time during the academic year, or during university-approved work terms.

The program actively encourages applications from underrepresented groups, including women, Indigenous peoples, individuals with disabilities, and members of visible minorities, to create a diverse and skilled workforce. Being open to different locations and flexible about your field of interest can significantly increase your chances of landing a position.

What You Get from FSWEP

Participating in FSWEP is more than just a job - it’s an opportunity to grow. The program complements your academic studies, sharpens your skills, and boosts your employability, all while giving you a glimpse into potential careers in federal public service. Beyond the work itself, you’ll have access to networking, training, and mentoring opportunities, along with specialized support services tailored for student employees.

For many, FSWEP serves as a gateway to permanent roles in the federal government. Students often transition into full-time positions after graduation, thanks to bridging opportunities within the program. Not only does FSWEP strengthen your resume, but it also sets the stage for professional growth, aligning with broader career development strategies designed to maximize your potential in public service.

SkillBridge: Moving from Military to Civilian Jobs

SkillBridge

The Department of Defense (DoD) SkillBridge program provides active-duty service members with the opportunity to gain real-world civilian work experience during their final 180 days of service. While participating in the program, service members continue to receive their full military pay and benefits, making it a valuable resource for those transitioning to civilian careers.

With over 6,300 partner organizations and more than 9,200 job openings as of Q2 2025, SkillBridge is one of the most extensive programs designed to help service members shift into civilian roles. The program partners with a wide range of industries, including government agencies, tech companies, healthcare systems, and more, creating a robust network of opportunities.

Who Qualifies and What You Need

To be eligible for SkillBridge, you must be an active-duty service member in your final 180 days of service, with at least 180 consecutive days of active duty under your belt. Approval from your command is required, and you’ll also need to be certified as "career ready" by your branch. This certification involves completing pre-separation counseling and transition assistance programs, as well as meeting any specific education, certification, or licensing requirements for your desired civilian career.

It’s recommended to start planning and searching for opportunities at least six months before you become eligible, as suggested by SilverEdge.

How to Apply and Program Benefits

Applying to SkillBridge is straightforward. Start by visiting the DoD's Authorized SkillBridge Organizations website to explore available internships. Once you find a position that fits your goals, complete the necessary application forms and connect with a SkillBridge coordinator for guidance.

One of the program’s biggest advantages is that you’ll maintain your full military pay and benefits throughout the transition. On top of that, SkillBridge offers hands-on training and a chance to explore different career paths before committing to one. The selection process is competitive, ensuring that your skills, education, and experience align with the specific requirements of the position you’re applying for.

Andrew B., a U.S. Air Force veteran who transitioned into a Pre-Construction Specialist role at Semper Tek through SkillBridge, shared his experience:

"SkillBridge gave me the opportunity to join a company without the stress of trying to fight for an interview... Semper Tek would have never had the chance to see who I was not just on paper, but in real life..."

Companies and Jobs Available

SkillBridge connects service members to a variety of industries, offering roles that can lead directly to civilian careers. Federal agencies like Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Department of Interior, and the Department of Homeland Security provide opportunities that often transition into government jobs. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) also offers positions in fields like claims processing and healthcare, both of which show strong employment growth and prioritize veterans.

Tech and consulting firms are key partners as well. For instance, GDIT, where veterans make up over 25% of the workforce, provides roles in areas such as Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, Data Analytics, Software Development, Finance, and Human Resources. Similarly, SilverEdge focuses on internships in high-demand technical fields like cybersecurity, systems administration, intelligence analysis, and engineering management.

The healthcare and education sectors also offer valuable opportunities. Mayo Clinic has tailored internships for service members looking to transition into civilian healthcare roles. Harvard University, as an authorized SkillBridge partner, provides access to roles in higher education and research.

Beyond individual service members, many SkillBridge partners extend their programs to include veterans, reservists, National Guard members, and even military spouses, creating a wide-reaching support network for military families. These partnerships not only help you land your first civilian job but also set the stage for long-term career growth.

Anthony S., a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who became a Software Engineer at Microsoft, praised the program’s impact:

"MSSA is groundbreaking in that it really helps service members recognize those skills that they bring to the table. They're dedicated, they're focused, they're driven, they never take no for an answer - these are the kinds of people you want in your company."

Using Bridged to Find Your Career Path and Fill Skill Gaps

Bridged

Programs like FSWEP and SkillBridge are excellent for stepping into government and tech roles, but figuring out your career direction and the skills you need can feel overwhelming. That’s where Bridged steps in, providing a clear roadmap to help you navigate your next career move. It builds on the strategies discussed earlier, offering a more personalized approach.

Bridged is a career content platform that helps you uncover high-paying job opportunities aligned with your strengths and goals. Instead of starting from scratch, it highlights your transferable skills and lays out a clear path to your target job.

Taking Bridged's Career Path Quiz

To complement programs like FSWEP and SkillBridge, the first step in your career transition is understanding where you currently stand in the job market. Bridged's career path quiz evaluates your skills, experience, and interests to match you with high-paying opportunities that align with your background. It identifies transferable skills - for instance, project management or customer relations - that can open doors to new roles.

The quiz gives you tailored recommendations, directing you toward career paths with strong growth potential. This focused approach not only saves time but also ensures you’re channeling your energy into the most promising opportunities.

Finding and Filling Your Skill Gaps

Bridged also helps you tackle skill gaps head-on. Its gap identifier compares your current abilities with job requirements from vetted companies. Then, it suggests affordable and reputable certifications to close those gaps. For example, if you’re aiming for a tech role, Bridged might point you toward free training programs like those offered by TechSF, which cover HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and IT support certifications. If you're targeting government roles, it might recommend courses from the California Department of Technology (CDT) on topics like leadership, cybersecurity, or project management.

Earning industry certifications can make a big difference - they can double your chances of promotion and increase pay by 20–40%.

The demand for structured skill-building programs is growing rapidly. As of 2024, there are over 64,800 registered apprentices in tech-related roles, marking a 29% jump over the past four years. Companies like Amazon are leveraging these programs to develop specialized talent.

"Registered Apprenticeship programs offer Amazon a multifaceted solution to tech talent acquisition and development. They provide access to broad talent pools while offering a faster way to upskill new hires and existing employees for specific IT, cyber, and technology roles. Additionally, apprentices bring fresh perspectives from their lived experiences that contribute to Amazon's innovation culture, and help address the challenge of ensuring we look to talent in all ways to help critical business areas."
– Nick Curry, Senior Manager, Emerging Talent Pipelines, Amazon

Combining Bridged with Other Programs

Bridged works seamlessly with programs like FSWEP and SkillBridge to create a comprehensive career transition strategy. You can use Bridged to pinpoint which government agencies or tech companies align best with your skills and interests, allowing you to strategically target your applications.

While participating in FSWEP or SkillBridge, Bridged helps you zero in on the skills that will make you stand out for full-time roles. For instance, if you’re completing a SkillBridge placement at a cybersecurity firm, Bridged might recommend certifications to boost your chances of landing a permanent position.

Even after completing your program, Bridged continues to support your career growth. It identifies advancement opportunities and highlights additional skills that can help you excel. The platform also vets job postings at top companies to match you with roles that suit your experience and preferences.

This integrated approach recognizes that career transitions take time. By combining the hands-on experience from FSWEP or SkillBridge with Bridged’s strategic planning and skill-building support, you can open multiple doors to success. Starting early - whether you're exploring FSWEP options or preparing for SkillBridge eligibility - ensures you’re making the most of every opportunity to fast-track your path to your dream role.

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How to Succeed in Your Career Transition

Making a career shift into government or tech roles requires a well-thought-out plan that showcases your strengths and aligns with your goals. Whether you're polishing your resume, growing your professional network, or outlining a clear career path, a strategic approach can set you apart.

Writing a Strong Resume

Your resume is often the first opportunity to make an impression, especially in government hiring, where structured processes dominate. To stand out, your resume needs to clearly demonstrate how your experience matches the job's requirements. Don’t leave hiring managers guessing - spell out your accomplishments in detail.

Whenever possible, use measurable achievements to highlight your impact. For instance, instead of saying "managed a team", try something like, "led a 12-member team to complete a $2.3M project 15% under budget and two weeks ahead of schedule." Both government and tech recruiters value specific, quantifiable results.

Tailor your resume to the role you're pursuing by referring to the Qualifications & Evaluation sections in job postings. For your most recent or relevant roles, include detailed bullet points about your responsibilities and achievements. For earlier positions, focus only on the essentials, such as the company name, job title, dates, and key accomplishments. When using technical terms, spell out acronyms and provide context to ensure clarity.

Once your resume is fine-tuned, the next step is to use your network to uncover opportunities and gain deeper insights.

Networking and Interview Tips

While a strong resume opens doors, networking ensures you step through them. Building relationships is a critical part of any career transition, with studies showing that successful job changers spend about 70% of their time networking and only 30% applying to jobs.

Start by optimizing your LinkedIn profile with relevant keywords to make yourself more visible to recruiters. Reach out to former government employees who have transitioned into tech, and personalize your messages with clear career goals to seek advice or referrals.

Beyond LinkedIn, expand your network by attending industry events, such as meetups, conferences, and webinars. Join alumni networks or explore volunteer opportunities in your target field to connect with others and gain valuable experience. When preparing for interviews, focus on informational conversations to learn about a company's culture before requesting job referrals.

Creating Your Career Plan

With a polished resume and a strong network, the next step is crafting a clear plan to guide your transition. A successful career shift combines education, certifications, and hands-on experience into a structured roadmap. If you're a SkillBridge participant, start planning 9–12 months before your separation. Use this time to prepare applications, refine your resume, and practice interview techniques. Early preparation is crucial, as only about 10–11% of eligible service members participate in SkillBridge, often due to lack of awareness.

Research high-demand careers in your desired industry and location. Many states are ramping up workforce development in areas like healthcare, technology, energy, and education. For example, Washington's S.B. 5582 supports nursing opportunities through education and apprenticeships, while Oregon's H.B. 4154 created the Semiconductor Talent Sustaining Fund to increase opportunities for underrepresented workers.

Consider registered apprenticeships as a practical "earn-and-learn" option. These programs have grown by 85% over the past decade, with over 600,000 apprenticeships nationwide as of 2023. Kansas, for instance, is aiming to become one of the top 25 states for apprenticeships by 2025, offering tax credits and grants to employers in high-demand industries. Additionally, take advantage of supportive services like childcare and transportation assistance, which can help remove barriers during your transition.

Combine hands-on experience with targeted skill development from programs like Bridged to create a smooth career transition plan.

"SkillBridge is a great way to learn a little bit about what life is like outside of the uniform, and to explore an opportunity that you want to learn more about." – Mike Arnone, Veteran and M6 Employee

Program Comparison: FSWEP vs SkillBridge vs Bridged

Let’s break down how FSWEP, SkillBridge, and Bridged stack up against each other to help you navigate your career transition options. Whether you're a student aiming for government experience, an active-duty service member preparing for civilian life, or someone seeking personalized career guidance, there’s a program tailored for you.

FSWEP is designed for students currently enrolled in recognized educational programs who want hands-on government work experience. SkillBridge caters to active-duty service members nearing the end of their military service, offering them civilian work experience while retaining their military pay and benefits. Bridged, on the other hand, focuses on helping individuals identify skill gaps, explore career paths, and pursue targeted certifications.

Comparison Table: FSWEP vs SkillBridge vs Bridged

Here’s a quick side-by-side look at the key features of these programs:

Feature FSWEP SkillBridge Bridged
Eligibility Students in recognized educational programs Active-duty service members nearing separation Anyone exploring career paths or skill-building
Program Length Based on academic schedules Up to 180 days (final 180 days of service) Self-paced, ongoing access
Compensation Government student wages Full military pay, allowances, and benefits No direct pay (educational platform)
Application Process Apply via government student job postings Requires commander and chain-of-command approval Complete a career quiz to access resources
Job Types Government roles across departments Civilian roles with 6,344+ partner organizations Career guidance across multiple industries
Primary Benefit Pathway to government roles Civilian work experience with military benefits Skill-gap identification and certification advice
Success Rate 16.6% of hires had prior student program experience Employers aim for a 75%+ employment rate for graduates Personalized career recommendations
Special Features Non-advertised government appointments possible Continued healthcare and housing benefits during transition Curated job matches

This table highlights how each program aligns with different career needs and timelines. For instance, SkillBridge now boasts over 9,000 position announcements with more than 6,300 partner organizations as of Q2 2025. Employers participating in SkillBridge must maintain a minimum 75% employment rate for program graduates, with a goal of 85% or more.

FSWEP’s success is notable too - 16.6% of permanent and term government hires over the last decade had prior experience in federal student employment programs. This makes FSWEP a solid stepping stone for students eyeing long-term government careers.

When considering timing, FSWEP participants should focus on internal government postings, ensuring they meet the eligibility criteria and can complete their studies within the job’s timeframe. SkillBridge participants, meanwhile, should plan ahead by scheduling their Separation Health Assessment up to a year before their separation date.

Geographic and industry flexibility varies as well. FSWEP primarily connects students to federal government roles, while SkillBridge opens doors to a range of industries, including healthcare opportunities at the VA and internships with the Department of the Interior. Bridged, however, offers career guidance without geographic limitations, making it accessible to anyone, anywhere.

The financial aspect also sets these programs apart. SkillBridge participants continue receiving their full military salary during the transition, while FSWEP offers government student wages, which vary by position and location. Bridged, as an educational platform, focuses on affordable certifications rather than direct compensation.

"The SkillsBridge and CSP program provides a leg up for service members in their transition process by allowing them to intern with a company. By gaining this experience before applying for a job, they get that extra line in their resume that says they've done something in the civilian sector and can thrive outside of the military."
– Paul Thompson, Veteran who joined Morgan 6 through SkillBridge

In terms of long-term impact, FSWEP serves as a direct path to government employment. SkillBridge ensures a smooth transition into civilian roles, with success stories like Paul Thompson and Mike Arnone, who used their military expertise to thrive in companies like Morgan 6. Bridged, as discussed earlier, continues to help individuals grow by identifying skill gaps and recommending certifications tailored to their goals.

Each program is tailored to a specific career stage. Students looking for government experience should consider FSWEP, active-duty service members transitioning to civilian life will benefit most from SkillBridge, and anyone seeking career clarity or skill development will find Bridged to be a valuable resource.

Conclusion: Your Next Steps

Deciding on a program that aligns with your career aspirations in government or tech is your first move. Each of the programs we've discussed - FSWEP, SkillBridge, and Bridged - caters to a specific career stage, offering tailored opportunities to help you move forward.

If you're a student, FSWEP opens doors to government roles that can set the foundation for your career.

For active-duty service members nearing separation, SkillBridge provides a seamless way to gain relevant work experience while still enjoying your military benefits.

If you're pivoting careers, Bridged can help you develop the skills you need and connect you with roles that match your strengths. Start by taking their career path quiz to uncover roles that suit your goals. Use their gap analysis tool to identify areas for growth, and let the job matcher link you with vetted companies that align with your preferences.

The key takeaway? Every stage of your career has a pathway designed to support you. But the most important step is to act now. FSWEP applications are open year-round, SkillBridge requires early preparation, and Bridged is ready to assist you immediately in mapping out your next move.

So, here's your next step: select the program that fits your current situation and dive in. Whether you're aiming for a secure government job, transitioning from military service, or gearing up for a tech career, these programs can help you close the gap between where you are and where you want to be.

Take that first step today.

FAQs

How can I determine whether FSWEP, SkillBridge, or Bridged is the right fit for my career goals?

Choosing between FSWEP, SkillBridge, and Bridged comes down to where you are in your career and what you want to achieve.

If you're an active-duty service member nearing your transition within the next 180 days, SkillBridge is a solid option. It provides hands-on civilian work experience in fields like government or tech, giving you practical exposure to prepare for life after the military.

For veterans or individuals switching careers, Bridged offers structured programs aimed at filling skill gaps and helping you land a job. It's designed specifically to support those looking for a clear path into new opportunities.

Keep in mind that FSWEP is a Canadian program and may not be relevant for most U.S.-based transitions. Think about your current situation, what you hope to achieve, and the type of experience you're seeking as you decide which program fits you best.

How can I successfully transition from the military to a civilian career using the SkillBridge program?

To transition smoothly from military service to a civilian career using the SkillBridge program, it’s crucial to start planning well in advance - ideally 9 to 12 months before your separation date. Begin by contacting your local transition office to explore available programs and confirm your eligibility. Once you find a program that matches your career aspirations, secure your command's approval and follow the application process specific to your military branch.

SkillBridge offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on training and practical experience through partnerships with various industries. This not only helps you develop valuable skills but also builds connections that can ease your entry into the civilian workforce. By starting early and fully engaging with the program, you can confidently transition from military service to a rewarding civilian career.

How does Bridged help me develop the skills I need for a government or tech career?

Bridged takes a unique approach to skill-building by focusing on your individual needs. It pinpoints the areas where you need improvement and provides solutions designed just for you. With features like personalized assessments, focused training modules, and hands-on project opportunities, Bridged helps you build both the knowledge and real-world experience needed for careers in government or tech.

This step-by-step process doesn’t just enhance your skills - it also gives you the confidence to stand out as a strong candidate. By aligning your abilities with what the industry is looking for, Bridged helps you take a big step closer to landing the career you’ve been working toward.

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Elizabeth Hogue
August 4, 2025

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