Find your Next Mission Through SkillBridge at Ursa Major

The SkillBridge program helps active-duty service members transition into the civilian workforce as they prepare to leave the military. Because participants can begin working with a company during their final 180 days of service, the program creates a seamless bridge between military life and a new professional chapter. 

While there are many SkillBridge roles to choose from, the aerospace and defense industry offers a continued sense of purpose and mission—one that extends beyond a successful military career. 

We spoke with Wes Adams, Director of Supply Chains & Logistics at Ursa Major and a retired Air Force Colonel, who began his civilian career through SkillBridge at Ursa Major, to learn more about his experience. 

Reflecting on his time in the Air Force, Wes shared, “I went into aircraft maintenance and logistics. I served for 26 years, commanded four different times, and deployed multiple times. I’ve been all over the world. Truly, it was the adventure of a lifetime, and I loved every minute of it.” 

For Wes, joining Ursa Major through SkillBridge was an opportunity to retire from military service without losing the deep sense of responsibility and fulfillment that defined his career. At the pinnacle of his service, he was the commander of an Air Force Base with thousands of airmen and family members. Stepping away from that level of leadership and into the corporate world was daunting, but SkillBridge made the transition intentional and smooth. 

For service members who are ready to retire but not ready to lose the feeling of contributing to something bigger than themselves, the program offers a powerful path forward. Working with Ursa Major through SkillBridge gave Wes the environment and tools he needed to succeed. 

“The team worked very closely with me, so I had the chance to learn about Ursa Major and what the hypersonic industry looks like. My time in the Air Force was rooted in aerospace. Being here continues to fill that passion.” 

When exploring SkillBridge opportunities, Wes discovered Ursa Major, a company where he could apply decades of aerospace leadership experience to advancing next-generation national security capabilities. 

“As I left the military, I realized the importance of a strong professional network. Thankfully, that network helped me discover Ursa Major, which wasn’t on my radar previously. Once I learned more, and especially once I began SkillBridge, it turned into something deeply significant and wonderful.” 

Ursa Major offers opportunities for various positions through the Skillbridge program, understanding the experience that service-members bring to the workforce is invaluable. As a company with a significant veteran employee population, Ursa Major is dedicated to giving back through offering opportunities to active-duty service members. The talent pool within the military gains the day-to-day skills of working in the civilian sector while capitalizing on their own expertise, leading to strong career prospects after service.  

As Wes reflected on his journey: “Ursa Major has, by every measure, met the requirements and desires SkillBridge sets forth to help members leaving the military transition to life on the outside. I found a culture that was deeply satisfying and aligned with my own moral compass and values.” 

If you are interested in learning more about SkillBridge opportunities at Ursa Major, fill out the Contact Us form here: ursamajor.com/careers/dow-skillbridge-senior-contract-acquisition-specialist/