Space Coast Salutes: Military Launchpad
Push what’s possible.
Military Launchpad is an innovative talent attraction and retention program aimed at empowering the military community by linking them to engaging and fulfilling job prospects on Florida’s Space Coast. Our objective is to act as a conduit between the military community and local employers, facilitating smooth transitions into civilian careers.
SkillBridge & Apprenticeships
“The men and women who choose to serve in our military come from every corner of the country, represent every demographic, and have diverse backgrounds and experiences. Using the Skillbridge Program as one of our recruiting avenues, we have found an experienced, dedicated, and talented group of individuals who are a great compliment to our company.”
Skillbridge
The Department of Defense SkillBridge program is a valuable initiative that aims to support military service members in their transition to civilian employment. Through the SkillBridge program, military service members have the chance to participate in internships, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training programs with approved employers or licensed SkillBridge providers. These opportunities allow service members to apply the skills and training they acquired during their military service to real-world situations, thereby enhancing their employability and gaining valuable experience. By collaborating closely with private sector companies, service members are exposed to various industries and can explore potential career paths.
- Internship for active duty service members during the last 180 days of military service.
- Available for degreed and non-degreed service members.
- Learn more about SkillBridge opportunities.
Ready to get started?
Apprenticeships
Employers are increasingly recognizing the benefits of linking their Registered Apprenticeship programs to the Department of Defense (DoD) SkillBridge program. This connection offers employers the opportunity to tap into a pool of potential employees before their competitors. It allows them to assess whether a service member is a suitable fit for their organization prior to making a hiring decision. Additionally, employers can provide training to the service member while the DoD covers their salary and benefits. Once the service member is hired as an apprentice, employers can further nurture their development within the Registered Apprenticeship program.
Become approved for GI Benefits
Companies that want to hire veterans can provide an added incentive to attract skilled veterans. By becoming “Approved for GI Bill”, Registered Apprenticeship program sponsors can assist their current and future veteran apprentices with the benefits they’ve earned. Veterans who have existing benefits under the GI Bill and are participating in a program “Approved for GI Bill” can use those benefits towards tuition and fee payments.
Ready to get started?
Apprenticeships
Registered Apprenticeship offers a valuable career path that is driven by industry demands. Employers have the opportunity to cultivate and prepare their future workforce, while individuals can gain paid work experience, receive increasing wages, attend classroom instruction, and earn a nationally recognized credential. These apprenticeship programs are carefully vetted and approved by both the U.S. Department of Labor and the Department of Education.
For veterans, apprenticeship programs provide the chance to acquire paid on-the-job experience while learning a new skill that may be different from their military occupation. It also allows them to further develop skills acquired during their military service, aiding them in transitioning to a civilian career.
GI Bill Benefits Approved
If you’re a veteran employed in a registered apprenticeship program, ask your employer if the program is “GI Bill Benefit Approved”. If you have questions about GI Bill Benefits, visit the VA’s eBenefits website or call 1-800-827-1000 (Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m – 9:00 p.m. Eastern Time).
Ready to get started?
Events
Expanding on the success of Launches & Lagers, the EDC announces a new series of events called Launches, Lagers & Vets. These events aim to provide an informal platform for connecting transitioning servicemembers, veterans, and spouses with rewarding and empowering employment opportunities. Recognizing the unique skills and experiences they bring to the table, the EDC seeks to bridge the gap between military service and civilian career paths. By facilitating these connections, the EDC will support veterans in finding meaningful employment that utilizes their talents and helps them thrive in their post-military lives.
Our Goals
- Networking and employment are the focus of the events.
- Providing a low-pressure and professional environment for informational interviews between employers and the military community.
- Create relationships between employers and job seekers from varying industries.
Learn about sponsorship opportunities by emailing: events@spacecoastedc.org
Great American Defense Community
The Great American Defense Communities (GADC) program shines a light on the regions and individuals that are making a difference. The program was designed to recognize and celebrate communities with an exceptional commitment to improving the lives of service members, veterans and their families. The Great American Defense Communities is made possible through ADC’s partnership with USAA.
Florida’s Space Coast is proud to be one of five communities across the country named to the 2022 Class of Great American Defense Communities.