Veterans in the Trades
Veterans bring discipline, teamwork, equipment experience and a strong safety mindset to the trades. Several programs help service members move into apprenticeships and good-paying construction and industrial jobs.
- Veterans
- Workers
Programs that help
| Program | What it does |
|---|---|
| Helmets to Hardhats | Connects veterans and transitioning service members with building trades apprenticeships and careers |
| DoD SkillBridge | Lets eligible service members train or intern with civilian employers during their last months of service |
| GI Bill | Can provide a monthly housing allowance during registered apprenticeships and on-the-job training, alongside your wages |
| VA Veteran Readiness and Employment | Training and job help for veterans with service-connected disabilities |
| American Job Centers | Priority of service and veteran employment representatives |
Skills that transfer
- Equipment operation, maintenance and mechanics
- Electrical, HVAC, plumbing and construction work done in the service
- Leadership, planning and working under pressure
- Following procedures, checklists and safety rules
Ask apprenticeship programs whether military training or experience can earn credit or advanced placement. See Apprenticeships.
Guard and Reserve members
USERRA protects your civilian job when you serve, including drills, training and deployments. See Military Service & Your Job (USERRA).
Taking care of yourself
- Get service-connected injuries documented; tell your doctor and employer about any limits.
- Protect your hearing; many veterans already have some hearing loss. See Noise.
- Reach out if you’re struggling. The Veterans Crisis Line is 988, then press 1, or text 838255. See Suicide Prevention.
Check your benefits early. Contact the VA about GI Bill use for apprenticeships before you start, so payments aren’t delayed.
Standards & references
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