Member Portal

DoD SkillBridge Program – Rapid City Career Pathways

SkillBridge Internships with Elevate Rapid City

Since 2020, Elevate Rapid City has proudly served as a Department of Defense (DoD)-approved SkillBridge provider, helping service members transition smoothly from active duty to civilian careers. Through partnerships with Ellsworth Air Force Base, the DoD SkillBridge program, and local employers, we connect qualified service members with meaningful civilian internship opportunities.

What Is the DoD SkillBridge Program?

SkillBridge gives active-duty service members the opportunity to gain valuable civilian work experience during their last 180 days of service. Employers gain access to highly trained, motivated individuals who bring leadership and technical skills to the workforce.

 

SkillBridge for Service Members

Explore civilian careers before you transition.

Elevate Rapid City serves as an “umbrella” for local companies that may not yet be registered with the DoD, expanding the number of internships available to you.

How We Support You

  • Guidance: Work directly with our team to identify an employer and develop your training plan.

  • Compliance: Ensure your program aligns with DoD SkillBridge requirements before submission.

  • Timing: The process typically takes 3–4 months. We recommend reaching out 9–12 months before separation.

Ready to get started? Your first step is to complete our intake form.

Elevate Rapid City SkillBridge Intake Form

SkillBridge for Employers

Access top military talent with a streamlined process.

By partnering with Elevate Rapid City, your company can host SkillBridge interns without going through the full DoD registration process.

Benefits for Your Business

  • Skilled Candidates: Service members bring discipline, leadership, and technical training.

  • Low-Risk Talent Pipeline: No employment obligation at the end of the internship.

  • Simplified Process: Elevate guides you through paperwork and program compliance.

Next Step: Review the Employer Intro Packet

Why Partner with Elevate Rapid City?

At Elevate Rapid City, our mission is to elevate the economy for all. By facilitating SkillBridge internships, we strengthen our regional workforce, create opportunities for transitioning service members, and provide employers with access to highly capable talent.

Hear from Service Members and Employers

Crystal Autry

Transitioning Airman and SkillBridge Intern from Ellsworth AFB

I was offered a job at Box Elder Vet Clinic which I accepted for full time. I really appreciate your help during all of this and I believe I couldn't have done it without your help.

Jerry Berndt, Operations Manager

Knecht Lumber and Distribution

’I wanted to reach out and say ‘thank you’ for facilitating this [SkillBridge] opportunity. [Our intern] starts with Knecht Home Center today after a successful program. The SkillBridge program is an amazing program, and we look forward to supporting again.

Kristopher Bethke, IMP

My family and I can't thank you enough for what you did to line up this opportunity for me. You listened to what I was looking for and somehow found it in the local area, it's almost like this position was made specifically for me. You've helped to make the hardest transition of my life easier than I ever thought it could be.

Katy McPherson

Pennington County Sheriff’s Office

Thank you for making this [SkillBridge] process so easy. It’s truly amazing to have a great partnership with Elevate.

I just wanted to say a HUGE thank you for working with me [on SkillBridge] these past couple of months, and helping me get connected. 5 months ago I was completely lost and you help shed so much light on my path and taking interest in my career and working with me. I really appreciate everything you've done!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Do I have to hire the intern if they aren’t a good fit?

While there should be a reasonable expectation for employment, a job offer is not required if the intern isn’t the right fit.

  1. How long can SkillBridge internships last?

Internships can range from 30 days to 180 days, depending on the service member’s availability and command approval. Most internships last around 3 months.

  1. What types of roles are eligible?

Almost any career field is eligible, whether the intern wants to stay in their area of expertise or try something completely new. However, certain industries are ineligible:  

  • DoD Contractors that you worked with while serving
  • Religious Organizations without proof of vacancy
  • Political organizations
  • Manufacturing, distribution or selling of cannabis
  1. Can I host multiple interns at once?

Yes, but each intern should have a corresponding job opening and a reasonable path to full-time employment. Only accept as many interns as you can support post-internship.

  1. Who reaches out to me – Elevate or the intern?

Elevate Rapid City staff will reach out to you for possible placements. If an intern reaches out to you directly, please encourage them to engage with Elevate staff first to start the process.