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Machine operation has always appealed to me, but I didn't know there was a course out there that I could take to help me make it my career. Helmets to Hardhats knew that if I had the patience to wait for this opportunity (Operating Engineer course with the Nova Scotia Construction Sector), it would be a smooth transition once the ball got rolling. Our teacher was phenomenal, offering personalized guidance and encouragement. While the large machines were initially intimidating, I never let that stop me. My instructor reminded me never to give up and supported me until I felt confident in the driver's seat. It was hands-on, learning how to move dirt, dig trenches, and build roads, and I had the chance to operate bulldozers, loaders, rock trucks, and excavators. I couldn't be in the position I am in right now, which is life-changing, without H2H. It's giving me an opportunity I never thought I would have, and I'm so grateful to have it. I see myself helping more women and people who don't necessarily believe there is a place for them in the skilled trades-there is a space for all of us here.

The Helmets to Hardhats program was instrumental in my transition from military to civilian life. It provided me with the opportunity to enter a new, team-focused environment in the trades, where I could apply the skills and discipline I developed during my service. As a result, I started my career as a boilermaker apprentice and have progressed to journeyman status, accumulating over seven years of experience. Joining Boilermakers Union Local 128 in Ontario has allowed me to leverage the positive attributes gained from the military and apply them effectively in my current career. Helmets to Hardhats eases the worry when releasing by guiding you in the transition to a great career in the trades.

Helmets to Hardhats (H2H) registrant Sardar worked as an interpreter with Canadian and American Special Forces in Afghanistan for a decade. He immigrated to Canada in August 2021 under Canada’s Special Immigration Measures Program for Afghan Nationals (and their families) who assisted the Canadian Armed Forces. When Sardar arrived in Canada, he reconnected with a Canadian Armed Forces Captain whose unit he assisted in Afghanistan. The captain suggested contacting Helmets to Hardhats (H2H) to find employment in Canada. When Sardar registered online with H2H, within a matter of days, he received a call from an H2H career advisor. H2H then connected Sardar with Tomorrow’s Trades for a free experiential learning program to help him start his new career in the unionized construction industry. Sardar chose to pursue Carpentry and has since been a member of Local 1946 in London, ON. Sardar had much to overcome as a Canadian newcomer and new to the workforce. Thankfully, with support from his fellow Union members and leadership, Sardar felt comfortable raising his questions or concerns, which were always handled quickly and professionally by his Union. Sardar continues learning new skills with local 1946 and positively contributes to his new community while supporting his young family.

I served with The 3rd Battalion Royal Canadian Regiment for six years and loved every minute of it.However, during my 5th year I recently returned home from a rotation in Afghanistan and decided that it was time for me to start a family. I knew in my mind that I didn’t want my family to be subject to that lifestyle. I finished out my second contract and moved home to southern Ontario knowing that I wanted to get a skilled trade. Helmets to Hardhats wasn’t integrated into Canada at that time which made joining a United Association very difficult without knowing a current member. Approximately a year had passed, and I was getting my biweekly haircut, the man cutting my hair was an Ex U.S Army Ranger. He began to tell me that the Helmets to Hardhats program had recently been integrated into Canada. When I left the barbershop, I went directly to UA 663 and filled out an application. The UA practically jumped out of their chairs when they discovered that I was a Veteran. After the panel interview and aptitude test, I signed with the Ontario college of trades as a Steamfitter Apprentice and it has been the best decision that I have ever made. If you are making the transition back to civilian life, I highly recommend acquiring a skilled trade. United Associations are constantly looking for people with duty, honour, integrity and most of all discipline. These assets make Veterans a crucial part in strengthening our workforce. PRO PATRIA