As service members prepare to transition from military service to civilian careers, large employers play an increasingly influential role in shaping post-service opportunities. Amazon has positioned itself as one of the most visible corporate partners supporting the veteran community through structured fellowships, training programs and long-term career development pathways.
Through initiatives such as its Military Fellowship and participation in the DoD’s SkillBridge program, Amazon connects military experience with roles across technology, logistics, operations and leadership functions throughout its global workforce.
Hiring Commitment
Amazon employs tens of thousands of veterans and military spouses across its businesses. In 2021, the company publicly committed to hiring 100,000 veterans and military spouses by 2024. According to company reporting, that goal was surpassed ahead of schedule, with veterans and spouses now represented across Amazon Web Services, operations, robotics and consumer technology teams.
This hiring scale reflects a broader workforce strategy focused on integrating military talent into both technical and nontechnical roles.
SkillBridge Access
A central component of Amazon’s approach is its participation in the DoD’s SkillBridge program. SkillBridge allows eligible service members to gain civilian work experience during their final 180 days of active duty while continuing to receive military pay and benefits.
Amazon’s SkillBridge pathway places participants into fellowship-style roles aligned with their skills and career interests. These assignments are designed to provide hands-on experience, exposure to corporate operations and a clear transition to full-time employment when appropriate.
Fellowship Model
Amazon’s Military Fellowship program, delivered in partnership with the Hiring Our Heroes initiative of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, places eligible service members into 12-week professional fellowships.
Participants complete project-based assignments, receive structured mentorship and gain experience applying military leadership and technical skills within a civilian business environment.
“Amazon is focused on recruiting and developing military talent with training programs specifically designed to help veterans transition into roles in the private sector,” said John Quintas, Amazon’s director of global military affairs.
Ongoing Support
Veteran support at Amazon extends beyond hiring and onboarding. The company offers internal employee networks, such as Warriors at Amazon, which connects veterans, military spouses and allies through local chapters, mentorship and professional development programs.
Amazon also operates a Military Mentoring Program that pairs newly hired veterans with employees who have previously transitioned from military careers. This peer-based guidance helps accelerate onboarding and supports long-term career progression.
Skill Development
Amazon’s broader workforce development programs further reinforce veteran career growth. Initiatives such as Career Choice and AWS re/Start provide free or subsidized training in high-demand fields, including cloud computing, robotics and technical operations. These programs support advancement both within Amazon and across the broader labor market.
Employer Model
By aligning fellowship timelines with military transition periods and pairing hiring with structured training and mentorship, Amazon’s approach reflects a growing trend among employers. Rather than focusing solely on recruitment, the company emphasizes long-term integration and career mobility for military-connected employees.
For many transitioning service members, programs like these serve as more than entry points. They provide a structured bridge from military service to sustainable civilian careers.
Read more articles for the Veteran Community here.
