Hero to Hero is a DoW Skillbridge provider helping transitioning service members launch first responder careers (police, fire, EMT, paramedic) in their desired post-military location.

SkillBridge allows you to train full-time while keeping your military pay and benefits. It does not guarantee employment, or cover tuition, though eligible programs may accept the GI Bill.

How It Works

  • Police & Fire: You apply to and get hired by a department, then attend their academy during your SkillBridge window. This does depend on state/municipal requirements. There may be other routes.

  • EMT & Paramedic: You apply to an approved training course. If the class is part-time, you must find/add an internship with an ambulance service or fire department to meet the mandatory 40-hour weekly requirement.

Roles & Responsibilities

  • Your Role: Choose your target location, apply to programs/departments, satisfy all hiring standards, cover any tuition costs, and maintain direct communication with your host site.

  • Our Role: Coordinate required DoW documentation, educate host agencies on SkillBridge rules, formalize agreements, and provide program oversight while you remain on active duty.

Next Steps Because every track is customized, we build your plan around your target location and goals. Complete the attached application, write the introductory essay, and submit all requested documents to begin.

Please review our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page if you have any questions about the application process or program.  

Before you being completing the application form (link at the bottom) you will need to have the following: 

  1. Your ASVAB Scores  

  2. Your Physical Readiness Scores  

  3. Your last three periodic performance evaluations (FitReps)

  4. Approximately a 500-word essay addressing why you want to be a first responder, how your time in the military has prepared you, what your goals are, & how you see this program helping you achieve your goals. 

Please be advised, the process of application review and placement takes a minimum of six weeks and placement is not guaranteed. The DoW Skillbridge Program begins at 180 days prior to your End of Active Service date. Planning for a Hero to Hero placement 8-10 months in advance is advised, especially for Police and Fire programs.

Our application