From Recovering Heroes to Supporting the Homeland: Gustavo Albaladejo’s CBP SkillBridge Story

As retirement approached, Albaladejo learned about DoW SkillBridge while attending a DoW Transition Assistance Program course that is required for transitioning service-members to prepare them for success in their post military lives. Looking for an opportunity to continue serving in a federal mission, he discovered CBP's SkillBridge internship program and connected with Jeff Jack, CBP’s veterans employment program manager.

"I contacted Mr. Jack through the DoW SkillBridge website," Albaladejo said. "He was, and continues to be, an exceptional communicator, aggressive advocate on my behalf, and an impressive facilitator of my post military career aspirations with CBP."

Albaladejo credits Jack's mentorship and responsiveness with making the application process both straightforward and encouraging.

"He was always quick to respond to my questions, and I believe he went out of his way to ensure my package landed in the hands of the program managers who ultimately offered me the opportunity to participate," he said. "I cannot say enough about how grateful I am to have Mr. Jack as my CBP SkillBridge liaison."

Upon arriving at CBP's ATC in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, Albaladejo immediately found himself welcomed by a team committed to helping transitioning service – member(s) succeed.

"The staff at the CBP’s OTD welcomed me into their community and have been gracious with their time," he said. "Their guidance in helping me transition from a U.S. Coast Guard contracting officer's representative role to meeting the needs of a CBP contracting officer's representative has been nothing short of exceptional."

Although he noted that civilian service offered a different pace than military life, Albaladejo appreciated the opportunity to focus more deeply on his area of expertise.

"In the military we wear multiple hats and are constantly multitasking," he said. "With my current role, I can concentrate on my specific skill set and continue improving it."

During his internship, Albaladejo quickly put his extensive acquisition experience to work. As a certified Level II Contracting Officer's Representative, he supported the development of statements of work, independent government cost estimates, acquisition documentation and project tracking systems that enhanced office efficiency and supported agency procurement requirements.

His previous military experience allowed him to integrate seamlessly into the CBP workforce while immediately contributing to mission success.

"My transition from active-duty Coast Guard service to a potential career with CBP has been a smooth experience," Albaladejo said. "Everyone at the Harpers Ferry facility has been welcoming, and many prior service members have been eager to share their advice on navigating the transition from military service into the civilian workforce."

Reflecting on the value of DoW SkillBridge, Albaladejo believes more service members should take advantage of the opportunity.

"For the Coast Guard, SkillBridge is one of those outstanding programs that remains underutilized," he said. "Whether it's because people aren't aware of it or don't understand how to participate, I encourage every transitioning service member to do their homework. It is an exceptional pathway into the civilian and federal workforce that should not be passed up."

He also believes the program offers significant advantages over traditional federal hiring methods.

"I cannot understate the advantages and simplification of the hiring process through SkillBridge compared to the traditional USAJobs process," Albaladejo said. "Even if the internship doesn't lead directly to employment, the skills you gain and the professional network you build are priceless." 

As Jack explains to all of his potential participants, SkillBridge interns benefit by already having their CBP Background Investigations prior to the start of the program. By clearing Background Investigations in advance, they are prepared to immediately transition into their CBP career either in the position they interned for, or in another CBP role for which they are qualified. If the host office is unable to hire, Jack advised that he can refer active CBP SkillBridge participants for other roles for which they can be hired outside of the traditional USAJOBS process. In Albaladejo's case, his supervisors at CBP said impact was evident from the moment he joined the team.

"Mr. Albaladejo's solid military background and years as a senior enlisted leader in the Coast Guard enabled him to hit the ground running in the position of business specialist," his supervisor said. "He's been a great addition to our team, fitting right in and quickly making a positive impact for the Advanced Training Center."

For Albaladejo, DoW SkillBridge represented more than a bridge from military service to civilian employment — it was an opportunity to continue a lifetime of service. Whether helping recover America's fallen heroes during his Coast Guard career or strengthening CBP's mission through acquisition and business operations, he has remained committed to supporting those who protect the nation. His journey reflects the enduring value of military experience and demonstrates how DoW SkillBridge empowers transitioning service members to continue making meaningful contributions long after they hang up the uniform. 

We at CBP are proud to support dedicated service members like Gustavo Albaladejo in their continued commitment to serving and protecting our nation. If you’re ready to take the next step in your career through the DoW SkillBridge program, that is available strictly for our non-law enforcement careers, contact Jeffrey Jack, CBP’s national VEPM, at Jeffrey.R.Jack@cbp.dhs.gov.

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