Every military transition marks the beginning of a new mission. Through its partnership with the Department of War (DoW) SkillBridge program, Navaide is helping transitioning service members gain meaningful civilian experience before they leave active duty, making the path from military service to a new career more seamless and successful.
SkillBridge connects service members in the final months of their military careers with industry partners for hands-on professional experience. The program allows participants to explore civilian careers, build new skills, and confidently prepare for life after military service.
For Michael Szampruch, Navaide’s Director of Marine Corps Programs and a Marine Corps veteran, the opportunity to participate in SkillBridge is personal.
“I didn’t have the opportunity to participate in SkillBridge when I transitioned out of the military,” said Szampruch. “One of the biggest challenges veterans face is learning how to navigate that next step after service. SkillBridge gives them the chance to gain experience, learn a new environment, and make that transition while they’re still supported by the military.”
That perspective helped shape Navaide’s approach to becoming an approved SkillBridge partner. Over several months, the company completed program requirements, training, and approvals while developing a structured experience designed to give participants meaningful, real-world learning opportunities.
The program also reinforces what Navaide has long recognized: veterans bring a unique perspective to solving complex challenges.
“Veterans bring more than technical skills,” Szampruch explained. “They understand the mission, the culture, and the operational realities of the organizations we support. They help bridge the gap between technology, business processes, and the people who rely on them every day.”
That value is already evident through Navaide’s first SkillBridge participant, Ryan, whose Marine Corps experience in financial management and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems aligns closely with the work Navaide performs in support of federal clients. His experience demonstrates how military expertise can immediately translate into meaningful contributions in the civilian workforce.
As Navaide continues expanding its work in financial management, digital transformation, and emerging technologies, SkillBridge provides an opportunity to welcome professionals who already understand the environment in which the company’s clients operate. Rather than learning mission culture from the outside, these service members bring firsthand experience that strengthens collaboration and delivery from day one.
The partnership also reflects one of Navaide’s core beliefs: investing in people.
Military service develops leaders who thrive in complex environments, adapt quickly to change, and succeed through collaboration. SkillBridge provides the opportunity to carry those strengths into civilian careers through mentorship, professional development, and practical experience before military service concludes.
For Szampruch, that’s what makes the program especially meaningful.
“SkillBridge eases the transition. It gives service members the opportunity to learn a different professional environment, understand how businesses operate, and build confidence before they leave the military. That’s something many veterans never had access to, and we’re proud to be part of it.”
As an approved DoD SkillBridge partner, Navaide looks forward to supporting future participants while strengthening its workforce and continuing its commitment to those who have served. Every military career eventually reaches a transition, and through SkillBridge, Navaide is helping ensure that the leadership, experience, and dedication developed in uniform continue making an impact long after service ends.
Learn more about the DoD SkillBridge program at SkillBridge.mil.
