Melbourne, Fla., July 11, 2025 — 8-koi is proud to announce the renewal of its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Defense (DoD), continuing its participation as an approved partner in the SkillBridge Program — an initiative that provides separating military service members with valuable civilian work experience during their final months of active duty.

Through this renewed partnership, 8-koi will continue to provide immersive training and real-world career development opportunities in fields such as construction, finance and IT. Originally approved as a DoD SkillBridge partner on November 10, 2021, 8-koi’s collaboration with the Department of the Air Force (DAF) SkillBridge team at JBSA-Randolph AFB underscores its commitment to supporting the long-term success of our nation’s veterans.

“At 8-koi we see the DoD SkillBridge as a strategic tool to evaluate and onboard high-quality talent while offering veterans a real-world ‘test drive’ in civilian roles before they separate from the military,” said Dean Rosenquist, chief operating officer at 8-koi. “It has been incredibly beneficial to both our business and the service members transitioning into the workforce.”

To date, 8-koi has welcomed four SkillBridge participants representing the U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army and Space Force. Of those, three transitioned into civilian employment following the program, while one returned to military service to pursue further education and credentialing.

The training plan developed for SkillBridge participants is hands-on, structured and highly personalized. A 12-week construction-focused program, for example, offers service members exposure to general contracting skills, construction management and project estimation — culminating in a potential full-time job offer and a pathway to licensure.

“This partnership honors the incredible experience and discipline service members bring to the workforce,” said Inga Young, 8-koi founder and president. “We are proud to help guide them through the transition process and connect them with meaningful opportunities that align with their goals.”

8-koi continues to welcome applications from separating service members, especially those with experience or interest in IT, finance or construction who intend to grow their civilian careers in the Melbourne, Florida, area.

To learn more about 8-koi’s SkillBridge opportunities, visit 8-koi.com or email tfriederichs@8-koi.com.