Eurest Opens Doors for Veterans Through SkillBridge

For Tenzin Choegoyab, Interim Superintendent of Command and Control Operations for the U.S. Air Force, the kitchen has become a new kind of mission.

After serving 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, Tenzin Choegoyab decided to pursue a lifelong dream of opening his own restaurant.

“I’ve always loved to cook for others and see the joy that food brings,” he said. “Food brings people together and that’s what I love most about it.”

As his military career nears its close, Tenzin saw the Department of Defense SkillBridge program as a chance to explore something entirely different from his day-to-day duties, a path that connects his passion for food with a future career as he transitions into civilian life.

The SkillBridge program offers service members the opportunity to gain valuable civilian work experience during the last 180 days of service through on-the-job training and mentorship through its network of industry partners.

“Our role is to meet our veterans where they are and support how they want to exit military service,” said Dawn Lyons, Sr. Director, HR & Military Talent. “Helping veterans who possess a diverse skill set in technical and specialized areas find career paths that are fulfilling and lasting is an honor and a joy.”

Through SkillBridge, Tenzin identified an opportunity to join a Eurest Centers for Excellence in Golden Valley, Minnesota, where he is training as a Chef Manager and immersing himself in the fast-paced world of culinary operations.

“Teamwork is everything,” he shared. “It reminds me of the military — everyone working together, supporting each other, focused on the mission.”

Tenzin’s story illustrates how Eurest is creating career opportunities for service members transitioning to civilian life, helping them build the skills and confidence to start their next chapter.

“We provide the necessary training and support to incoming SkillBridge fellows to make the experience mutually beneficial and fulfilling,” added Robin Hernaez, Eurest Vice President of Culinary Services. “One of the first questions we ask is, what do you want to achieve during your time? From there, we tailor our teaching approach, so it is truly based on individual goals.”

For Tenzin, that support has made all the difference.

“The management and HR team have been so flexible and understanding,” he said. “It’s been an incredible learning experience, and I’ve gained so much support from everyone I’ve met.”

Compass Group earned recognition as a SkillBridge industry partner in December 2023, and through that partnership, Eurest has since placed over 10 veterans in training roles, with the goal of providing job opportunities after the fellowship period ends.

If you are interested in learning more about SkillBridge opportunities with Eurest, reach out to [email protected].