By Sarah Roebuck
Corrections1
NORFOLK, Va. — The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) has marked a significant milestone by hiring its first employee through the Virginia SkillBridge Program, an initiative aimed at assisting service members in transitioning to civilian employment.
Phillip Williams is breaking new ground at VADOC as the first hire through the Virginia SkillBridge Program. Now a probation and parole officer in Norfolk’s District 2, Williams completed an internship that helped him transition his military experience to a civilian role, according to VADOC.
In March, VADOC’s Office of Human Resources partnered with the Virginia Department of Veterans Services to become an approved participant in the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) SkillBridge Program. During his internship, Williams honed his existing skills and acquired new ones, preparing him for a role as a probation and parole officer. Upon completing the internship in September, he successfully navigated VADOC’s competitive recruitment process to secure full-time employment.
“VADOC’s partnership with the Skillbridge program is a great opportunity to support veterans and help them transition into the next phase of their professional lives,” said VADOC Director Chad Dotson. “The VADOC is committed to hiring U.S. veterans. I am pleased that Officer Williams gained employment with our agency through this program, and we look forward to seeing more success stories from the Virginia Skillbridge program.”
District 2 Chief Probation and Parole Officer Kelli Brown praised Williams’s integration into the team.
“I am pleased to share that PO Williams has been a fantastic addition to our team at District 2,” said District 2 Chief Probation and Parole Officer Kelli Brown. “His eagerness to engage in various aspects of the role has significantly contributed to his professional development. We look forward to seeing PO Williams continue to thrive in his role and contribute to our mission at VADOC.”
Reflecting on his experience, Williams expressed gratitude.
“I am loving working here with the VADOC and am very fortunate to have been granted this opportunity,” said Officer Williams. “It can be very difficult transitioning from the military world to the civilian world. However, I can say that my transition has been positive. Everyone has been very helpful and supportive, which has definitely played a role during my transition and my positive experience thus far.”
Approximately 6.5% of VADOC’s workforce comprises veterans, who bring a wealth of skills and experience to their roles, VADOC said. In return, VADOC offers a structured environment, a strong sense of teamwork, competitive salaries, excellent benefits and numerous opportunities for professional advancement.
What is SkillBridge?
The Department of Defense SkillBridge program allows transitioning service members within 180 days of separation to gain relevant civilian work experience while still receiving military pay and benefits.
How does SkillBridge work?
The DOD SkillBridge program connects service members with both public and private sector organizations offering internships. These internships help them build resumes, explore career options and gain valuable civilian job experience to ease the transition from military to civilian careers.
WATCH: At MCON 2024, veterans shared their experiences transitioning from military service to roles in law enforcement, EMS and firefighting.