8-koi Renews DoD SkillBridge Agreement to Support Transitioning Military Members

Posted by Tessa Friederichs on

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.

8-koi Supports Magnolia Government Solutions on $43 Billion Defense Health Contract

Posted by Tessa Friederichs on

Melbourne, Fla., July 1, 2025 — 8-koi is proud to announce its role as a subcontractor supporting Magnolia Government Solutions, LLC (MGS) on the Defense Health Agency’s (DHA) Medical Q-Coded Support and Services – Next Generation (MQS2-NG) contract.

The $43 billion contract vehicle enables MGS and its team of trusted partners, including 8-koi, to deliver critical healthcare staffing services that support the readiness, resilience and well-being of military members and their families nationwide.

“We are honored to partner with Magnolia, an Orlando-based firm whose values align with 8-koi’s commitment to mission-focused service,” said 8-koi Founder and President Inga Young. “Our work together will help ensure the highest quality of care for the men and women who serve.”

Under MQS2-NG, Magnolia Government Solutions is authorized to provide nursing, dental, ancillary, physician and other medical support services to military medical facilities across all regions of the United States. This IDIQ contract allows for both small business set-aside and unrestricted requirements, offering flexible support to meet the evolving needs of the Defense Health Agency.

A Partnership Rooted in Shared Purpose

The award reflects the strength of local small businesses working together to meet national needs. As a Florida-based Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB), 8-koi’s collaboration with Magnolia exemplifies how Florida firms are contributing to the health and readiness of our nation’s service members.

“We are thrilled to support Magnolia’s mission of making a difference in people’s lives every day,” said Young. “This opportunity underscores the trust placed in our team to deliver the specialized staffing solutions essential to military healthcare.”

About Magnolia Government Solutions, LLC

Magnolia Government Solutions is a Joint Venture under the SBA 8(a) Mentor-Protégé Program between Innovative Systems Group of Florida, Inc. (ISGF) and Donald L. Mooney Enterprises, LLC (NURSES Etc STAFFING). Together, they bring over 55 years of combined experience providing highly skilled healthcare professionals to government agencies across the country. Learn more at magnoliags.com.

About 8-koi 8-koi is a Florida-based Woman-Owned Small Business specializing in providing compliant, quality-focused services in Healthcare, Design Engineering and Construction. Our fully integrated approach ensures mission success for government and commercial clients. Learn more at 8-koi.com.

Media Contact:
Tessa Friederichs
tfriederichs@8-koi.com

8-koi Acquires Cape Design Engineering as Wholly-Owned Subsidiary

Posted by 8koi_admin on

8-koi is pleased to share that President Inga Young negotiated the acquisition of Merritt Island design-build firm Cape Design Engineering  (CDE) as a wholly-owned subsidiary to expand WOSB mil-spec construction capabilities. CDE was founded in 1997 and has completed an extensive portfolio of high-profile specialty work for government and commercial customers.

“8-koi acquired CDE because of the similar and familiar culture. We’ve been doing business together for years and have found compatibility that will help to ensure a smooth transition with little to no effect on day-to-day operations. Our focus will remain on supporting our customers with our core values,” says 8-koi President Inga Young.

The acquisition will allow 8-koi to pursue more competitive opportunities for specialized mil-spec construction work to include healthcare and training facilities as a complement to existing capabilities.

Read the full press release here.