NY Helmets to Hardhats - About the Program

Helmets to Hardhats is a national, federally-funded program that exists to connect transitioning active-duty military members as well as National Guardsmen/women and Reservists with quality career training and employment opportunities within the building and construction industry.

The program is about an entire industry doing what’s right to ease the difficult passage back into civilian life for military families, providing lucrative career opportunities and economic security to those who have earned the promise of a nation for their years of dedicated service.

Helmets to Hardhats collects nationwide career opportunities within the building and construction industry and matches that data to former military personnel interested in a career within the industry. Interested candidates can access information about careers and apprenticeships via the Internet from anywhere in the world. Candidates accepted into a registered apprenticeship program can collect their Montgomery GI Bill benefits . . . this means up to $1075 per month in addition to wages.

With the implementation of Direct Entry in New York, Helmets to Hardhats candidates are able to get into quality construction careers soon after applying for them. Direct Entry allows all Joint Apprenticeship Training Councils (JATC’s) and Local Unions in New York to accept current and honorably discharged former military personnel into their training programs on a prioritized basis, as well as providing credit for military training and experience. Prior experience with a particular craft or trade is not necessary.

Interested military candidates need only to log on to the Helmets to Hardhats web site at www.helmetstohardhats.org and follow the instructions for completing an online resume and profile. Candidates can then go directly to a JATC to complete the application and interview process or apply online for future openings. Interested in a trade that is not currently recruiting? Contact New York State Representative Anne Trenkle at malloy62@aol.com for more assistance.