Exiting Veterans Find Career Opportunities in Clayton
A workforce development partnership connecting military service members to careers in North Carolina’s life sciences industry is helping local veterans transition from active duty to civilian employment through paid training and internships.
According to the U.S. Census, Clayton and the surrounding region are home to a significant population of veterans, many of whom relocate from Fort Bragg as they transition out of military service. According to program leaders, that transition period can be marked by uncertainty about employment and career direction.
The U.S. military established the SkillBridge program more than a decade ago to and led locally by MOVE Boots to Biotech Director Jacob Key, operates in partnership with Fort Bragg and is powered by the North Carolina Biotechnology Center (NCBiotech). The initiative allows eligible service members to spend their final 180 days of military service gaining civilian work experience through apprenticeships and internships with participating employers.
One of the program’s industry partners is Novo Nordisk, a global life sciences manufacturer with operations in Clayton and a growing presence in North Carolina. Through its partnership with SkillBridge, Novo Nordisk has hired more than seven veterans over the past two years.
“At Novo Nordisk, we believe in investing in people and creating meaningful career pathways,” said Nicole Niwa, Alliance Development and Social Responsibility Principal at Novo Nordisk. “Programs like SkillBridge allow us to recognize the value veterans bring to the workforce while strengthening our connection to the Clayton community.”
The partnership with Fort Bragg was formalized approximately two years ago, allowing MOVE Boots to Biotech to connect service members directly with North Carolina employers at a critical point in their military careers.
The first internship position created through the Career Skills Program and Novo Nordisk partnership was filled in June 2025 by Aneesa Jagoo, an active-duty U.S. Army Sergeant based at Fort Bragg and assigned to Womack Army Medical Center. Jagoo recently completed six months of training with Novo Nordisk through the program.
“Internships for veterans in the Life Sciences industry highlights the incredible opportunities available right here in Clayton. These programs not only support our heroes in transitioning to rewarding careers but also strengthen the talent pipeline for one of our fastest-growing sectors,” said Joe Stallings, Economic Development Director for the Town of Clayton.
Jagoo holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology degree from the University of Maryland, which she completed online while serving overseas. Prior to her internship, she managed a mental health clinic serving five different units.
Key, who joined the military at age 17, said his own experience navigating uncertainty early in his career informs his work with the program.
“Many service members reach the end of their service without knowing where they will work next,” Key said. “SkillBridge helps close that gap by connecting them directly with employers who recognize the value of military training and leadership.”
Jagoo said the internship helped clarify her career goals and build confidence as she prepares for life after military service. She plans to pursue a master’s degree in business administration and continue working in roles focused on community support and workforce development.
According to Key, the SkillBridge program benefits both transitioning service members and participating employers by pairing experienced, disciplined candidates with industries facing workforce needs.
Businesses interested in participating in the SkillBridge program can contact the Fort Bragg installation Transition office during the program’s designated ramp-up period to learn more about partnership opportunities.
