From Leading Sailors to Strengthening the Mission: Dylan McConnell’s SkillBridge Journey to U.S. Customs and Border Protection

For Dylan McConnell, leadership has never been defined by rank alone. It has been measured by the people he has mentored, the missions he has supported, and his unwavering commitment to service. Through the Department of War SkillBridge internship program with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, McConnell successfully transitioned from a distinguished U.S. Navy career into a civilian role where his leadership, logistical expertise, and mission-focused mindset continue to support the nation's security.

Now serving as a Mission Support Specialist at the Port of Atlanta in Georgia, McConnell credits his military service with preparing him to excel in a wide range of responsibilities. During his career as a Navy Master-at-Arms, he gained experience across numerous disciplines while serving alongside military and civilian personnel around the world.

"The highlight of my Navy career was being able to experience different cultures and styles of leadership while doing a little bit of everything as a Master-at-Arms," McConnell said. "I was able to conduct VIP escorts, executive protection, patrol officer duties, serve as a watch commander and shift supervisor, lead our supply and weapons divisions, and most rewarding of all, help develop young Sailors into future leaders both inside the Navy and as they prepared to transition into civilian life."

As he prepared for his own transition from military service, McConnell sought an opportunity that would allow him to continue serving while providing stability for his family. After discovering the DoW SkillBridge Program, he connected with Jeff Jack, CBP's Veterans Employment and Program Manager.

"I knew where my family wanted to settle down, and this position aligned with my interests and skills," McConnell said. "Mr. Jack provided excellent guidance, helped me join the CBP Talent Network, and walked me through building my application package."

McConnell described the transition process as straightforward thanks to the structure and support provided throughout the internship.

"The process of being accepted and brought on board was long but extremely easy with Mr. Jack's guidance," he said. "Having a set schedule, a mission and being around other veterans made for a smooth transition from military life to CBP."

Although the civilian workplace offered a different pace than military service, McConnell said the internship provided the ideal environment to adapt while remaining mission focused.

"My SkillBridge experience was wonderful," he said. "After spending my entire career in the Navy, it was a nice change of pace. The program was excellent for transition because I was surrounded by other veterans while still having structure and a mission.” 

McConnell believes that joining an agency where 25% of the 70,000-person workforce is made up of veterans helped give him a sense of familiarity and of “coming home.”

During his internship, McConnell embraced every opportunity to expand his knowledge, especially during periods when staffing adjustments created opportunities to support multiple mission areas.

"As an intern, you want to be a sponge and learn as much as possible," McConnell said.

His internship responsibilities included inventory management, supply accountability, Local Property Officer duties, vehicle management, safety, badging, and credentialing. He also supported the Airport Tactical Homeland Security program by tracking mission-critical supplies and equipment.

One of McConnell's most significant accomplishments came when he developed a new vehicle asset accountability program from the ground up. The initiative provided CBP leadership with an effective system for tracking government vehicle assets, improving accountability and helping prevent the loss of critical equipment supporting mission operations.

The broad experience McConnell gained throughout his internship allowed him to become well-versed in every aspect of mission support while strengthening his understanding of CBP operations, organizational priorities, and the importance of supporting frontline personnel.

McConnell believes the DoW SkillBridge program also provided a significant advantage in securing his current position by allowing him to gain practical experience before officially entering the federal workforce.

"SkillBridge allowed me to enter the workforce while still getting paid by the U.S. Navy and become a subject matter expert in all aspects of Mission Support," he said. "It also allowed me to work directly with the exact team I hoped to join and build strong working relationships before the position became available."

When asked what advice he would offer fellow service members considering the DoW SkillBridge program, McConnell emphasized patience, flexibility, and a commitment to learning.

"Be patient and flexible," he said. "As an intern, your role is to learn everything you can about your department. This internship is an incredible opportunity that is not afforded to many people. Take advantage of it, network, and learn as much as you can."

His supervisors at the Area Port of Atlanta said McConnell's impact was immediately evident throughout his internship.

"During his tenure, Mr. McConnell's exceptional organizational skills, consistently positive attitude, and valuable military experience proved highly beneficial," his supervisor said. "His expertise in mission support and logistics directly contributed to operational readiness and efficiency, while his attention to detail and commitment to procedural excellence significantly enhanced our mission."

For McConnell, the DoW SkillBridge program provided more than a pathway to federal employment. It offered the opportunity to continue serving the nation while applying decades of military leadership, operational expertise, and a passion for mentorship in a new environment. His journey demonstrates that military service does not end with military service. Through preparation, mentorship, and a willingness to embrace new challenges, he successfully transformed decades of service into a new mission with CBP, continuing to protect the homeland while inspiring the next generation of transitioning service members.

CBP is proud to support dedicated service members like Dylan McConnell 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, contact Jeffrey Jack at Jeffrey.R.Jack@cbp.dhs.gov.

To learn more about CBP’s mission, visit join.cbp.gov and connect with a recruiter.

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