The Forge Fellowship, as an authorized DoD SkillBridge provider, connects qualified individuals with hands-on work-based learning experiences, career development resources, and exclusive training through the Forge Academy. Our Fellows also gain access to our partnerships with businesses across Arkansas, Fellows gain valuable industry experience and build professional relationships to support a successful transition into a wide range of career fields.

“Forge Institute is providing much-needed awareness, education, and reform for cyber defense and are passionate about employing veterans. They are leading the charge in Arkansas and beyond with their initiatives to strengthen national security. Check them out if you are interested in a fellowship opportunity whether it is in cyber/IT, or even in other industries. They have the ability to out-place with other companies all over and especially in Little Rock, Arkansas.”

CMSgt (Retired) Nicholas Tonino, Forge Fellow, Construction Project Manager, Nabholz Construction

Meet Some of Our Fellows

  • CMSgt. (Retired) Nick Tonino, Forge Fellow, Construction Project Manager, Nabholz Construction

    Forge Institute is providing much-needed awareness, education, and reform for cyber defense and are passionate about employing veterans. They are leading the charge in Arkansas and beyond with their initiatives to strengthen national security. Check them out if you are interested in a fellowship opportunity whether it is in cyber/IT, or even in other industries. They have the ability to out-place with other companies all over and especially in LR, Arkansas.

  • Marsha Wallace, USAF Engineering Technician, Forge Fellow, AR Dept of Corrections

    I successfully gained the knowledge and hands-on experience I sought in the role, allowing me to truly understand the job and determine if it was a career I wanted to pursue as a civilian. The opportunity provided me with the flexibility to expand my skills and achieve my personal goals. Forge made it seamless to collaborate with the company I was passionate about, making the process smooth and efficient.

  • Preston West, USSF Network Infrastructure Technician, Forge Fellow, Network Administrator, Forge Institute

    Becoming a Fellow with Forge Institute provided me with the opportunity to pivot from the field I was in with the Air/Space Force. It has allowed me to learn, grow, and train in a new environment, working with cutting-edge systems. Through this experience, I’ve expanded my expertise from Network Administration to include Google Cloud Development and AI Development/Training, opening new doors for my career,”

  • Amanda Hamilton, USAF Air Traffic Controller, Forge Fellow, Project Manager, Forge Institute

    Thank you Forge Institute for the amazing experience during my transition from the Air Force to civilian life! Through my Fellowship, I have met so many great and talented people, and I had a blast while doing it. I’m so grateful to be able to transition into a completely different career field- one that has been my goal for the past year and a half: Project Management.

The Forge Fellowship Provides

  • Hands-on Work-based Learning Experiences

    The Forge Fellowship provides hands-on work-based learning experiences that allow Fellows to apply their skills in real-world environments. Through immersive projects and direct engagement with industry professionals, participants gain practical knowledge that enhances their expertise. This experiential learning approach ensures that Fellows are well-prepared to transition into the civilian workforce with confidence.

  • Special Activities

    Fellows take part in special activities designed to develop leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. From interactive workshops to networking events, these experiences foster personal and professional growth. Whether engaging in virtual sessions or in-person collaborations. Fellows build connections and refine the skills necessary for long-term success.

  • Access to Courses in the Forge Academy

    Through the Forge Fellowship, participants gain access to a network of partners across a variety of industries throughout Arkansas. These partnerships provide unique internship opportunities with leading businesses, allowing Fellows to explore different career paths. By working alongside industry experts, Fellows expand their professional network and increase their chances of securing full-time employment.

  • Preparation for Employment

    To ensure a smooth transition into the workforce, the Fellowship offers comprehensive preparation for employment. Fellows receive expert guidance on resume building, interview techniques, and career planning, equipping them with the tools needed to stand out in the job market. Additionally, they gain access to job opportunities with Forge Institute’s corporate partners, helping them take the next step toward a fulfilling career.

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Partnerships

  • Education Partner

    All Fellows receive FREE access to the Fortinet Training Institute, and the complete Fortinet Certified Fundamentals certification. This certification validates that you have mastered the technical skills and knowledge that are required for any entry-level job role in cybersecurity. This curriculum will offer courses that cover today’s threat landscape and the fundamentals of cybersecurity. Fellows are eligible to apply for vouchers for further certifications through the Fortinet Training Institute.

  • Corporate Partner

    Fellows may gain access to cybersecurity and other technical or non-technical internships with our partner company, Acxiom, offering valuable hands-on experience and potential follow-on employment opportunities.

  • Career Services Partner

    Insight Global provides staffing services and free Career Resource Workshops.

  • Apprenticeship Partner

    ACDS facilitates IT apprenticeships with many Arkansas employers & can help you begin!

  • Career Services Partner

    Certified resumes and unbiased employer marketplace.

  • Career Services Partner

    A digital community focused on helping individuals take the next steps towards their career goals!

  • Corporate Partner

    The Arkansas Aerospace & Defense Alliance is a group of public and private aerospace companies, government agencies and educational institutions dedicated to growing the aerospace, aviation and defense infrastructure in Arkansas and training a qualified workforce.

  • Corporate Partner

    Fellows may gain access to internships with our partner company, Gentry Professional Services, offering valuable, hands-on experience and potential follow-up employment opportunities. Roles with Gentry Professional Services include business development roles, sales, account management, cybersecurity, and more.

  • Corporate Partner

    Fellows may conduct internships with Nabholz, one of the largest construction companies in the region. Fellow alumni currently serve as Construction Project Managers.

  • Corporate Partner

    Radius Aerospace brings more than a half century of experience in aviation and aerospace forming and fabricating. Their core services include formed, welded, bonded, machined, and processed fabrications and assemblies.

  • Corporate Partner

    Riverside Performance Engines is highly skilled at tearing down, cleaning up, and rebuilding any type of engine, including diesel. They can also build new engines exactly to customer specifications. In addition to engines, they service crankshafts, heads, blocks, and more. Their expert craftsmen (and women) are some of the best in the business, using the most advanced machinery on the market.

  • Career Services Partner

    Apprenticely is a nonprofit working to bridge the divide between employers and career seekers in multi-industry workforces by connecting available talent to employers looking to grow and expand their businesses through the proven model of Registered Apprenticeship.

 Past Fellows

Why Arkansas

Your Gateway to a Fulfilling Post-Military Life powered by the Forge Fellowship!

LIVE

Settle in welcoming communities and enjoy affordable housing, a low cost of living, and a warm sense of belonging. Discover safe neighborhoods, diverse cultural offerings, and a relaxed pace of life that allows you to truly savor each moment.

GROW

Thrive in a robust economy that fosters career growth across diverse sectors. Arkansas offers a range of industries, including technology, healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing, providing abundant employment options and entrepreneurial possibilities.

WORK

Leverage your military skills and discipline to excel in the professional arena. Employers in Arkansas highly value the qualities instilled by military service, offering ample job prospects and a supportive business ecosystem that recognizes your unique talents.

RAISE A FAMILY

Create a nurturing environment for your children with excellent schools, enriching extracurricular activities, and a strong emphasis on family values. Arkansas prioritizes education, ensuring that your kids receive a quality upbringing and ample opportunities to thrive.

RETIRE

Embrace the tranquil charm of Arkansas for your well-deserved retirement. Indulge in a peaceful lifestyle, surrounded by picturesque landscapes, serene lakes, and a wealth of outdoor activities. Revel in a close-knit community, access to quality healthcare, and a cost of living that allows you to make the most of your golden years.

The Forge Fellowship empowers you to embrace the vast opportunities that Arkansas offers, providing comprehensive support and customized resources to ensure a seamless and successful transition into your post-military life. Experience the transformative power of Forge Fellowship as you embark on a fulfilling journey in the Natural State.

“After serving in the military as an Avionics Technician for 4 years, I knew I wanted to find a meaningful training program that would enable me to challenge myself. I wanted to gain skills that would not only provide career growth opportunities but also become passionate about it. Through Forge Institute's Cyber Training Bootcamp, I have been exposed to areas of technology and cybersecurity that I did not know existed. The course ranged from basic concepts to operational systems, all the way to offensive & defensive TTPs. I was even able to land a job shortly after the course concluded. Overall my experience was one-of-a-kind and I look forward to continuing to grow my skillset in cyber. Thanks, Forge Institute!

”

—Corey Halterman (Fellow & Cyber Bootcamp Graduate, 2021)

Skills We’re Looking For:

 

  • Cyber Offense & Defense

  • Writing & Communications

  • Data Analysis/Science

  • Contracting

  • Administrative/Executive Assistance

  • Intelligence Analysis

  • HUMINT, RUMINT & OSINT (SALES)

  • Project/Program Management

  • Information Technology

  • Other Interesting Things… even if you can’t talk about it

 

In addition, we are looking for fellows who are passionate about their work, who are eager to learn and grow, and who are committed to making a difference in the world.

If you have these qualities, we encourage you to apply for the Forge Fellowship Program!

Are you ready to supercharge your veteran hiring initiatives by tapping into a pool of highly trained U.S. Military Veterans actively seeking roles in the dynamic field of technology?

 

Access to Quality Talent Pool

Becoming a partner of the Forge Fellowship program grants you exclusive access to a high-quality talent pool of transitioning U.S. military personnel with exceptional skills and dedication. By joining forces with the Fellowship, you can tap into this specialized talent pool to attract and recruit individuals who bring unique perspectives, valuable experience, and a strong work ethic to meet your organization's needs. This partnership ensures access to top-tier candidates who are motivated to excel in the technology industry, enhancing your recruitment efforts and strengthening your workforce.

Highlight Your Brand

Becoming a partner of the Forge Fellowship program presents a unique opportunity to elevate and showcase your brand as a leader in supporting transitioning service members and fostering innovation in the technology sector. By aligning with the Fellowship, your brand will be associated with empowering talented individuals and driving positive social impact, solidifying your reputation as an organization dedicated to fostering growth and opportunities in the industry.

Robust, Successful SkillBridge Program

Partnering with the Forge Fellowship offers tremendous benefits through its robust and successful SkillBridge program. As a partner company, you gain access to a proven platform that seamlessly bridges the gap between military service and civilian careers, providing you with a pipeline of highly skilled and motivated individuals. By leveraging the SkillBridge program, you can tap into this talent pool to meet your organization's workforce needs, harness their diverse skills, and contribute to the success of your business. This partnership empowers you to bolster your workforce with individuals who possess a strong work ethic, adaptability, and a wealth of transferable skills gained during their military service, giving your company a competitive advantage in today's evolving market.

 

Application Process

  1. Submit your application

  2. We’ll review then send you a link to sign our NDA

  3. Upon receipt of your NDA, we may choose to conduct a virtual interview. If we do, you’ll receive an email with a link to schedule.

  4. Once our review is complete, we will determine if you are eligible to continue the application process.