DoD SkillBridge: Two Veterans On Planning For Life After Service And Exploring Careers at Lowe’s

Apr 09, 2021

Lowe’s is honored to employ nearly 20,000 associates in the military community. Within that community, our company has found some of our strongest leaders and greatest assets. We’re proud to continue our long history of supporting service members as the eighth Fortune 50 company to be approved as a national Department of Defense SkillBridge Industry Partner.

The Department of Defense SkillBridge program allows service members to gain valuable civilian work experience through internships during their last 180 days of service. Program fellows can take up to a six-month internship with approved companies, giving them the chance to explore different facets of a role and enter the civilian workforce with confidence and ease.

As an initial step in our partnership, Lowe’s is launching four 12-week SkillBridge fellowships in store management, supply chain management, human resources, and technology. The first DoD SkillBridge fellows joined Lowe’s in January 2021 in supply chain and talent acquisition. Below, meet Terrence Ishmeal, the newest fellow assisting our military recruiting team, and Marc Jankovich, who joined us in supply chain.

Terrence Ishmeal, DoD SkillBridge Fellow — Human Resources

“I’ve served and deployed with a variety of unit types throughout my career, ranging from aviation, combat arms and recruiting. My background is in human resources, administration, and equal opportunity/employee relations, and I received my master’s in human resources management from Webster University.

For any potential SkillBridge applicants, I’d recommend that you start researching SkillBridge companies early in your transition process. Communicate your intentions to your command leadership early and often. Strategic planning is key to not only landing a SkillBridge role, but also to securing command approval to participate.

Ultimately, the SkillBridge program is a gateway to professional development and future employment with established and reputable companies such as Lowe’s. Transitioning service members should definitely take advantage of the program if it fits their transition timeline and desired location.”

Marc Jankovich, DoD SkillBridge Fellow — Supply Chain

“I’ve served 12 years in the U.S. Army. I was a Combat Engineer, stationed at Fort Campbell for all 12 years, with two combat deployments to Iraq. In my time serving as a Sergeant First Class, I gained leadership and management experience. Additionally, I earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in management.

My advice for any transitioning service member is to stay active on Indeed and LinkedIn, and always stay connected with your local Career Skills Program Office. There is no one more concerned with your transition than yourself, so continue networking and ask as many questions as possible. You never know when a golden opportunity may appear—especially when you least expect it.”

Join the DoD SkillBridge Program

If you’re nearing the last few months of your military service, it’s a great time to start thinking about your next career move. The second cohort of the Lowe’s DoD SkillBridge fellowship program will begin in May 2021, with opportunities available in Store Management and Supply Chain Management. 

As a SkillBridge fellow at Lowe’s, you’ll have the chance to make an impact and explore working in a Fortune 50 environment while receiving competitive pay, benefits, and more. As an employer of choice for transitioning veterans and military spouses, it’s our goal at Lowe’s to give every military team member and spouse the support, guidance and growth opportunities needed for a great civilian career. 

When you join Lowe’s, you’re joining a company that honors your service and takes great pride in our military partnerships and the strong military community we’ve built. Visit our careers site to learn more about military at Lowe’s, and apply today to become a Department of Defense SkillBridge fellow. We’d love to have you lead with us.