One of Children’s Wisconsin’s inclusion, diversity & equity commitments is focusing on increasing the diversity of our workforce and leadership with a special focus on underrepresented populations and veterans. Children’s Wisconsin is proud to be a qualified employer with the U.S. Department of Defense Skillbridge program. Since 2021, Children’s Wisconsin has worked with six service members to provide civilian work experience and specific industry training.

During the last four to six months of their service with the military, the Skillbridge program offers service members an opportunity to gain valuable skills, cross-training and experience with an industry partner. The Department of Defense continues to provide salary and benefits for the service members while the industry partner provides training and connections from military service to the civilian world and exposes them to potential careers and future opportunities.

At Children’s Wisconsin, service members participating in the Skillbridge program often work with the Facilities team to support hospital and clinic operations through maintaining HVAC, electrical, plumbing and other key building functions. Skillbridge participants translate their military career experience, knowledge and skills to a civilian career environment that supports the health and well-being of Wisconsin’s kids and families.