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NY Helmets to Hardhats - Frequently Asked Questions!
I am exiting my branch of the military in 6 months. How do I plan ahead for a career?
I have no experience in the construction field. Can I still apply?
Union Jobs are really hard to get into ... what are my chances?
How much money will I make as an apprentice?
Is it true that I can use my Montgomery GI Bill when I join an apprenticeship program?
Why should I join a union apprenticeship program?
There are so many skilled trades in the Building Trades, how do I figure out which one is right for me?
Are there vets who have been through the program that can help me out?
I am exiting my branch of the military in 6 months. How do I plan ahead for a career?
Planning ahead for a career can be a very difficult task. But careful, early planning will provide you the time to consider your opportunities and make the right choice for your future.
First step . . . get registered on the Helmets to Hardhats website. Read about the different trades that participate in the program and choose the one that best suits you. Then check the opportunities posted and get your application rolling
I have no experience in the construction field. Can I still apply?
The great thing about an apprenticeship program is that you do not need to have any skills in the trade you choose. You will work full time and train according to the guidelines of your JATC...maybe one night a week, one day a month, etc. Union Jobs are really hard to get into ... what are my chances?
New York State was the first state to create Direct Entry for returning Veterans. This means your military service and experience are recognized and rewarded by the Construction Industry. Depending on what trade you choose and when you apply, your wait time will vary. For instance, most trades start apprentice classes one to two times per year, depending on the needs of the industry. They usually begin in September and February. It is imperative to get your name in as early as possible... even before you separate! How much money will I make as an apprentice?
Apprentices usually start at 40% of a Journeyman's wage. Your wages and benefits will increase regularly during your program. Is it true that I can use my Montgomery GI Bill when I join an apprenticeship program?
Yes, it is true. Because a registered apprenticehsip program is an educational program, you are entitled to collect your Montgomery GI Bill Benefits. After you are accepted into an apprenticeship program, go to www.gibill.va.gov to download the appropriate forms. For active duty members, the benefits are as follows:
| Apprenticeship and On-Job Training |
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Training Period
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Monthly rate
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First six months of training
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$913.75
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Second six months of training
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$698.75
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Remaining pursuit of training
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$483.75
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Why should I join a union apprenticeship program?
- Union apprenticeship programs offer unparalleled training.
- You will learn your craft using state of the art technology, the highest safety standards.
- You will be working under the protection of a union contract ~~ good wages, health insurance, pension and continued skill training.
There are so many skilled trades in the Building Trades, how do I figure out which one is right for me?
Go to www.helmetstohardhats.org to read a brief description of all the trades that are looking to hire our Vets. Are there vets who have been through the program that can help me out?
Coming Soon
We will have a testimonial page as well as a blog where you can read comments from other vets like yourself and their experiences with transitioning from military life to life as a civilian in the Building Trades. Just as you knew you weren't alone while serving your country . . . you should know that your fellow vets and the members of the Building Trades have your back.
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