For many military veterans, finding satisfying employment following the transition to civilian life can be challenging. The DOD SkillBridge Program, managed by the U.S. Department of Defense, helps in those efforts by connecting active-duty service members in their final 180 days of service to industry partners who provide civilian work experiences. These internships allow separating service members to “build their resumes, explore employment interests, develop job skills, and gain valuable work experience that will help them prepare for their adjustment to the workplace.”
In recognition of the caliber of experience and perspectives SkillBridge participants bring to their host organizations, ISS has offered internships to service members through the program since 2020. The company has also extended a number of offers of full-time employment to participants at the end of their internships, including Jason Mallare, a former member of the United States Air Force. Jason joined ISS as a permanent placemaker in one of its largest client accounts when his SkillBridge internship ended in 2022.
A Different Kind of Basic Training
After 22 years of service in the U.S. Air Force, Jason was ready for the next stage of his life. The SkillBridge internship program introduced him to both ISS and its financial services client’s southwest U.S. hub. From the onset of his time at that client facility, Jason understood both the value of the training ISS offered and the potential to leverage that knowledge into a future profession. He immersed himself in the day-to-day operations of the ISS engineering and janitorial teams, attending strategic meetings, contributing to project discussions, and working on initiatives. Despite the challenges that facilities management presents on a daily basis, Jason proved a consummate professional who drew upon his prior military experience to tackle situations with ease.
Under the guidance of the site’s chief engineer, Jason learned how to navigate critical facility, equipment, and HSEQ management and maintenance systems, including modules of ISS’ integrated workplace management system, FMS@ISS. Jason also conducted weekly plant tours and worked in building cleaning and sanitation, mentored by the on-campus custodial supervisor. In addition to collaborating with various ISS facility teams, Jason strengthened existing skills in and developed new understanding of the people management-side of client account services. He learned how to create job requisitions and hire and onboard new team members, among other activities.
Coming in for a Safe Landing
Throughout his internship, Jason was impressed with the synergies between his values and ISS’ service ethos, commitments, celebration of diversity, and acceptance of individuals as their authentic selves. This was a company he could see his future in, and he made his interest known. “ISS has shown professionalism and respect regardless of race, religion, sex, culture, and country of origin, and embraces diversity. From what I have seen so far, ISS provides great opportunity for career growth within the company.”
When a role opened on the client account’s southwest hub engineering team, Jason was the ideal candidate for the full-time engineer position. He had always felt connected to the team and excited for a future at ISS.
Identifying, attracting, and retaining the best talent is a requirement for fulfilling ISS’ mission of connecting people and places to make the world work better. Jason's story testifies to the company’s commitment to fostering talent and professional growth — especially for those with the right ambition.
Are you a veteran? Check out the ISS recruitment program specially designed for service members looking for their next challenge.
