SkillBridge Internship Opportunities

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Question: What is SkillBridge? 

Answer: As noted by the Department of Defense (DoD), “SkillBridge 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.” Learn more on the SkillBridge website and check out their FAQs.

Question: Who can participate?

Answer: The DoD SkillBridge program is for active-duty service members and select groups of the National Guard and Reserves. 

Question: When do Service members become eligible? 

Answer: Service members must be within 1 year of separation and have completed all Branch-specific pre-separation requirements (TAP).

Question: How long are SkillBridge internships?  

Answer: The duration of a SkillBridge program must not be more than 180 days and must occur during a participating Service member’s last 180 days on active duty in accordance with guidance described in DoDI 1322.29. At Mayo Clinic, each internship opportunity lists the minimum number of days/weeks required.

Question: When should I apply for an internship?

Answer: Applications to Mayo Clinic must include your resume, must be submitted AT LEAST 60 days before the anticipated start date and should include command pre-approval. Some service members may be planning well ahead and are invited to apply as soon as they have confirmed their anticipated start date with command pre-approval.

Question: What information or documents are needed to apply?

Answer: Please complete the application form with a resume.  Providing all requested information, including details on your civilian education/degrees/certifications/licensure will aid in determining if you meet required qualifications for a desired internship role.

Question: Are there remote SkillBridge internship opportunities with Mayo Clinic?

Answer: Yes, some positions may be either in-person or remote.  If working remotely is possible, arrangements will be made through Mayo Clinic to provide the necessary equipment.

Question: What is the next step after submitting an application and resume?

Answer: Qualified applicants are referred to the appropriate Mayo Clinic department for screening and interviews.  If selected/approved for a SkillBridge internship position, applicant must obtain and submit evidence of written approval from their command before beginning the on-boarding process at Mayo Clinic.

***Note: Onboarding takes 30-40 days to complete. Onboarding must be completed prior to the first day of internship.

Question: Will the Mayo Clinic internship provide education or training required for licensure/certification in Nursing or other areas that I am interested in?

Answer: No. Please see the role qualifications for the position you are interested in. Internships are designed to enhance a service member’s previously obtained degree/license/certification, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Question: Does Mayo Clinic pay the SkillBridge intern during their internship?

Answer: No. Through this program, the DoD will continue to provide these service members with their salary, allowances, and benefits while they are in training with DoD SkillBridge Industry Partners.

Question: Can service members receive gifts or travel benefits or similar perks while participating in a SkillBridge Program?

Answer: As a general rule, service members may not accept gifts, travel benefits (transportation, lodging, meals) or similar perks from a SkillBridge Industry Partner. However, they may be accepted if available to ALL participants (including members of the public) from the Industry Partner or Mayo Clinic.

Question: What are the requirements regarding employment post-completion of a SkillBridge Program?

Answer: SkillBridge industry partners' internship programs must offer a high probability of post-service employment with the provider or other employers in a field related to the opportunity. Participants are not entitled to a job at the conclusion of the SkillBridge opportunity with that specific industry partner or employer simply by virtue of completing the SkillBridge Program.

Question: If a service member has accepted an offer from Mayo Clinic via normal application process (non-SkillBridge), can they use SkillBridge to arrive earlier?

Answer: No. If the service member has accepted an offer for a paid fulltime position or paid fellowship, offering an unpaid internship experience in the same area is non-compliant with Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) guidelines.

Question: Does Mayo Clinic offer any remote SkillBridge internship opportunities?

Answer: Service members interested in what Mayo Clinic has to offer for internships should review current list offerings.  Currently there are some limited remote internships available.  For those who are accepted into the remote internship, Mayo Clinic will provide the necessary equipment to the service member.  

If you still have questions, please contact MCSKILLBRIDGE@mayo.edu.