Media Contact: Aidan Strickland
astrickland@helmetstohardhats.ca
Want to learn welding for a new career in the building trades? International Brotherhood of Electrician Workers local 105 in Hamilton will be running one Welding course that starts February 5th 2024.
View the Course details here
[Edmonton, AB] – Helmets to Hardhats (H2H), in partnership with the Government of Alberta's Minister of Advanced Education, Rajan Sawhney, proudly announce the launch of the Skilled Pathway Program, an initiative aimed at equipping Alberta's Veterans, Reservists and their immediate family members with the preparation and skills needed for fulfilling careers in Alberta's unionized construction industry.
The first-of-its-kind program in Alberta is based on the success of a similar initiative in Ontario, where H2H has empowered hundreds of Veterans and military families to secure meaningful, long-term employment in the unionized construction sector. By providing Veterans and Reservists with the necessary certifications and training, the Skilled Pathway Program aims to bridge the gap between military service and the growing demand for skilled labour in Alberta.
With a focus on reducing barriers to entry and expediting the pathway into one of Canada's 14 Building Trades Unions, the program aims to support 40 Veterans into apprenticeship systems, providing them with the necessary support to transition into civilian employment while supporting Alberta's economic growth.
The program will focus on enhanced engagement, with outreach to Alberta's military communities to ensure awareness and access to our resources. It will offer participants foundational safety certifications, including Working at Heights and First Aid, to prepare them for Alberta construction sites. The Skilled Pathway Program will also offer leadership training to equip participants with essential skills for safety management.
Additionally, each participant will receive access to personal safety equipment, ensuring they are fully prepared for employment in the construction industry.
"This program exemplifies the Alberta government's commitment to supporting our Veterans. It addresses critical workforce needs while providing military families with opportunities for meaningful, long-term careers in the unionized construction industry," said James Hogarth, Executive Director at Helmets to Hardhats. "This initiative is a testament to what can be achieved when we work together to create pathways for those who have served."
“Having recently commemorated Remembrance Day, I want to emphasize the importance of supporting our veterans and service members through the entire year. I am excited to partner with Helmets to Hardhats to open new doors for Alberta’s service members and am confident that their hard work and dedication will translate seamlessly to post-service careers in the trades.”
Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Advanced Education
"We are thrilled to see this initiative come to life, supporting Veterans as they transition into civilian careers. This program will add immense value to our unionized construction sector by bringing in highly disciplined and skilled individuals. This partnership will strengthen both our workforce and our communities."
Terry Parker, Executive Director, Building Trades of Alberta
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On Remembrance Day, our thoughts turn to the brave men and women who have and are currently serving our country with pride and dedication. We honour and remember the fallen, whose sacrifices shaped our freedom. Today, and every day, we remember their service.
At Helmets to Hardhats (H2H), we are committed to supporting Veterans as they transition into civilian life by offering opportunities for rewarding and meaningful careers in the unionized construction industry. This Remembrance Day, we want to highlight the importance of providing second careers to the military community and recognize that this is a necessity that needs to continue throughout the year.
Helmets to Hardhats is a national non-profit organization that provides career opportunities in the unionized construction industry for Veterans, reservists, and military family members. We serve as a bridge, connecting those who have served our country with opportunities to build rewarding careers in the skilled trades. Many skills learned in the military—such as leadership, teamwork, discipline and a strong work ethic —translate seamlessly into the trades, making this transition a natural fit. But our mission goes beyond career referrals. Veterans face unique challenges when reintegrating into civilian life, which can be daunting. That's why we are committed to offering support and guidance every step of the way. Through Veteran-to-Veteran support, training opportunities, and guidance from industry professionals, Helmets to Hardhats provides Veterans and their families with the resources they need to succeed.
As we commemorate Remembrance Day, it's important to remember that the service of our Veterans doesn't end with their military careers. The skills, leadership, and work ethic they develop while serving our country make them valuable contributors to the civilian workforce, with many indicating they want to use these and their new skills to benefit their communities. Helmets to Hardhats ensures that this talent is recognized and utilized. On this solemn occasion, we renew our commitment to Veterans by honouring their sacrifices and empowering them to build new careers. We believe that one of the best ways to show appreciation is through action—helping Veterans secure the futures they deserve. As we reflect on the service and sacrifice of our military personnel this Remembrance Day, let's also look toward the future, ensuring that those who served continue to thrive in the skilled trades.
Together, we can ensure that those who have served our country continue to have the opportunities and support they need as they transition into civilian life. Let us commit to action as we pause to honour our Veterans, and the lives lost this Remembrance Day.
Lest we forget.
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On Truth and Reconciliation Day, Helmets to Hardhats stands united in our commitment to honouring the rich heritage and invaluable contributions of Indigenous peoples across Canada. We recognize the importance of this day in reflecting on the historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities and reaffirming our dedication to fostering positive change.
Helmets to Hardhats is devoted to providing meaningful and sustainable employment opportunities tailored to the unique skills and experiences of the Indigenous military-affiliated community. Our mission is to assist in their transition to civilian life and empower them with opportunities for long-term success and fulfillment in their chosen careers
We are continuously working to build partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations, ensuring that our initiatives are inclusive and culturally respectful. By actively collaborating with Indigenous leaders and stakeholders, we aim to create a supportive network that values and honours their traditions and perspectives.
Our commitment extends beyond today; it is reflected in our ongoing efforts to enhance employment programs, offer mentorship, and develop resources that cater to the specific needs of Indigenous Veterans. Through these actions, we strive to contribute to the broader movement toward reconciliation and justice.
On this day of reflection and respect, we reaffirm our pledge to stand alongside Indigenous communities, honouring their past, supporting their present, and working together for a future of equity and opportunity for all.
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Toronto, ON – August 26, 2024 – Helmets to Hardhats proudly served as a major sponsor of the 165th running of the King’s Plate, a landmark event that brought together a distinguished assembly of Union representatives, industry employers, Provincial building trade councils and government representatives including Ontario Lieutenant-Governor Edith Dumont and the Right Honourable Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. This prestigious occasion underscored our mission to support Veterans and the military-affiliated community transitioning into civilian careers in the unionized construction industry.
The King’s Plate, a hallmark of tradition and excellence, provided the perfect backdrop for highlighting our ongoing efforts to assist Veterans, Cadets, Reservists, and military family members as they navigate their career transitions. The event saw a remarkable turnout, and people gathered to reinforce their commitment to the Helmets to Hardhats initiative and the unionized construction industry’s dedication to our Veterans.
This event served as a platform to raise awareness about Helmets to Hardhats’ mission, highlighting the collective effort of all involved to bridge the gap between military and civilian careers through targeted support and training. It also emphasized the critical role of the skilled trades in our economy and the importance of supporting Veterans as they move from military service to civilian roles. Having representation from so many of Canada’s Building Trades Unions showcased their solidarity with Veterans, reiterating their commitment to providing valuable career opportunities within the construction industry.
“We are honoured to have been a key sponsor of this historic event,” said James Hogarth, Executive Director of Helmets to Hardhats. “The King’s Plate provided an exceptional opportunity to showcase the dedication of our partners and the unwavering support of the unionized construction industry for our Veterans. Together, we are making significant strides in ensuring that those who have served our country are given the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in their new civilian careers.”
The Helmets to Hardhats initiative remains steadfast in its commitment to facilitating the transition of Veterans and the military-affiliated community into skilled trades professions, fostering a supportive network that values their unique skills and experiences. The success of this event highlights the strong partnerships that drive our mission forward and the collective commitment to honouring and supporting those who have served.
Ottawa, Canada - June 21, 2024 - Helmets to Hardhats (H2H) proudly announces the remarkable progress of its Indigenous Veteran Outreach Project, a pivotal initiative aimed at fostering diversity in the skilled trades while advancing Reconciliation by promoting careers in Canada's 14 Building Trades Unions to Indigenous communities across Canada.
Since its inception in June 2023, the project has emerged as a pathway for Indigenous Canadian Armed Forces Veterans and their families' seeking opportunities in the unionized construction industry. The Indigenous Veteran Outreach Project has achieved significant milestones by engaging with over 70 Indigenous organizations nationwide, which is led by the dedicated efforts of the Helmets to Hardhats Indigenous Outreach Advisor. This engagement has been supported by the project's active participation in eight major conferences and cultural gatherings, from the Hadiya'dagénhahs First Annual Pow Wow at Brock University to Indigenous Veterans Day celebrations in Manitoba and participating in the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls March with the Cheam First Nation in British Columbia, these events enhanced cultural awareness and facilitated valuable networking opportunities crucial for bridging the gap between military service and civilian careers.
The various outreach methods used in engaging with Indigenous communities are central to the project's success. Through virtual outreach to remote Indigenous communities and active participation in culturally significant gatherings, this versatile approach has enabled Helmets to Hardhats to exceed engagement goals by facilitating deeper connections within Indigenous communities while promoting the available opportunities in Canada's Building Trades Unions.
Looking ahead, Helmets to Hardhats reaffirms its commitment to Reconciliation by empowering the Indigenous military community to explore career opportunities within the skilled trades workforce. By building upon its solid foundation of outreach through community organizations and national Indigenous associations, the project aims to sustain and expand its efforts, aligning closely with the evolving needs of Indigenous Veterans and their families. By prioritizing community-specific outreach, the project continues to pave the way for successful transitions of Indigenous peoples into fulfilling careers within Canada's unionized construction sector.
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TORONTO, June 20, 2024 – Woodbine Entertainment and Helmets to Hardhats Canada (H2H) are pleased to announce a new partnership for the 2024 King’s Plate, taking place at Woodbine Racetrack on August 17.
Through the partnership, H2H will be recognized as the Official Building Trades Unions Veterans’ Liaison of the 165th running of The King’s Plate, and a Canadian Veteran will be included in the opening ceremony.
“Woodbine is proud to support Helmets to Hardhats and its valuable objectives,” said Woodbine Entertainment CEO Michael Copeland. “We can think of no better way to show our appreciation for our servicepeople than to see them succeed in life after their years of hard work and sacrifice.”
H2H’s mission is to support Veterans, reservists, senior cadets, military family members, and Afghan Interpreters in finding meaningful second careers in the unionized construction industry. They do this by simplifying and expediting the process of joining the skilled trades by assisting clients into apprenticeship opportunities with one of Canada’s 14 Building Trades Unions or offering direct hires with recognized employers.
"We are thrilled to partner with Woodbine Entertainment to champion our mission of empowering Veterans with meaningful career opportunities in Canada's Building Trades Unions," said James Hogarth, Executive Director of Helmets to Hardhats Canada. "Through this partnership, we aim to raise awareness about our organization and our services to the military community while showcasing the abundant career possibilities available within the unionized construction industry. Together, we will pave the way for a brighter future in the construction industry with the value added by a Veteran."
Founded in 1860, The King's Plate is the longest continuously run stakes race in North America and the richest horse race in Canada.
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It is an unfortunate reality that women are predominately underrepresented in careers throughout the skilled trades. However, with the demand at an all-time high for skilled tradespeople, Helmets to Hardhats (H2H) is committed to increasing awareness, reducing barriers and ensuring military-affiliated women and members of the LGBTQ2S+ community can find meaningful careers in the unionized construction industry. Helmets to Hardhats in undertaking this work with the support of the Office to Advance Women Apprentices (OAWA).
Today, on International Women’s Day, we recognize and celebrate the contributions of tradeswomen throughout Canada while aiming to empower the next generation of tradeswomen to enter the workforce. In recognition of this important day, H2H reaffirms their commitment and vital partnership to assist women in service in their search to find rewarding second careers in the skilled trades.
Through the Veterans and Family Well-Being Fund, administered by Veterans Affairs Canada, Helmets to Hardhats recruits and retrains marginalized groups, including women and members of the LGBTQ2S+ community, as apprentices within Canada’s 14 Building Trades Unions. This initiative has been ongoing since 2022 and has successfully registered 145 individuals from these marginalized communities. Helmets to Hardhats expects to surpass their goal of 150 diverse registrants by the end of March 2024.
As Canada is up against a tight timeline to counteract the aging demographic of the workforce, the construction industry needs to recruit 309,000 new workers over the next decade. Helmets to Hardhats knows that the military-affiliated community is an underutilized demographic crucial to filling these labour shortages. Employers will attest to the skills that the military community brings to the workforce, including leadership, time management and work ethic.
While Helmets to Hardhats fills career vacancies with trained, skilled, and reliable employees, they also aid in the successful transition, financial stability, and increased visibility of underrepresented groups within the skilled trades.
H2H strongly believes that the construction industry has a significant role to play in breaking down barriers and biases to ensure that all women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals have the chance to find success in the skilled trades. Our work today will pave the way for future generations of skilled tradespeople.
The unionized construction industry has diverse career opportunities requiring a diverse workforce. Helmets to Hardhats is committed to supporting marginalized groups – Veterans, women, members of the LGBTQ2S+ community, and Indigenous peoples access the training they need to start and excel in a career in the skilled trades. Helmets to Hardhats will continue to advocate for the value added by all Veterans into the unionized construction industry.
I want to help others get started in a career that can support themselves and their families. Change is coming, and change is scary, but change is ok, and for me, change is welcome. There is a place for everyone to succeed and I want to be the change I would like to see in the world.
View the Original release hereDuring my time in the military, I was unaware of the vast opportunities in the civilian world that would have been available to me after my service. At Helmets to Hardhats, I can promote and connect other Veterans to incredible and versatile careers in the skilled trades. Providing the military community with the knowledge they need to start a second successful career ensures all Veterans feel supported and empowered to enter their next chapter.
Helmets to Hardhats (H2H) continues to promote in-demand and well-paying career opportunities within Canada’s Building Trades Unions (CBTU) to members of the Canadian military community. This summer, H2H expanded outreach initiatives to participants of the Canadian Cadet Program aged 16 to 18.
As Canada addresses labour availability issues across the country, Helmets to Hardhats is engaging with an untapped demographic of youth talent to support the unionized construction industry by building the workforce of tomorrow. By collaborating with the Canadian Armed Forces and the Cadet and Junior Canadian Rangers Support Group leadership, Helmets to Hardhats visited 11 Cadet Camps across Canada to promote the opportunities for Cadet members within Canada’s 14 Building Trades Unions. Helmets to Hardhats connected with over 1,000 potential skilled trades employees of the future at Cadet Training Centres, such as:
Cadets are a valuable demographic to recruit into the skilled trades. There are approximately 52,000 Cadets across Canada, and 1/3 of them will be ready to enter the workforce when they finish high school. Cadets are also honing valuable skills that future employers within the unionized construction industry will appreciate. Throughout their time as a Cadet, they are taught leadership skills, develop an appreciation for health and safety and are instilled with the military values of excellence, discipline and physical fitness.
While BuildForce Canada estimates that the construction industry needs to recruit 299,200 new workers by 2032, Helmets to Hardhats understands the importance of promoting pathways to rewarding and life-long careers in the skilled trades to Canada’s youth.
View the Original release here
As Remembrance Day approaches and Veterans' Week begins, Helmets to Hardhats (H2H) not only honours the memory of all Veterans who have passed but also reaffirms our commitment to Canada's current Veterans, Reservists, and transitioning military members and their families. Our work, which plays a vital role in helping Veterans find second careers in the construction industry, has a profound impact on these heroes, offering them a renewed sense of purpose and opportunity. This is only possible with the strong partnerships that enable us to support them.
We are honoured to collaborate with exceptional organizations including:
Together with so many other support systems, these partnerships help us fulfill our mission of supporting Veterans as they embark on their next chapter. We are collectively committed to ensuring that Veterans have a comprehensive support system, including resources, training, and pathways, to build strong futures in civilian life.
"As we honour the sacrifices of Veterans during this important time, Helmets to Hardhats remains deeply committed to helping them build strong, fulfilling second careers. Through our partnerships with industry leaders, unions, and government programs, we can provide Veterans with the skills, training, and opportunities they need to succeed in the civilian workforce. Their service deserves nothing less than our unwavering support, and we are proud to be a part of their journey."
"Helmets to Hardhats is more than just a program; it's a bridge connecting the dedication and discipline of our military Veterans with the skilled trades. It's a testament to the value of experience and the potential for a fulfilling second career and we are proud to support this initiative that not only benefits our Veterans but also strengthens our workforce."
"SkillPlan is proud to partner with Helmets to Hardhats to support Veterans in finding fulfilling second careers in the unionized construction industry. We are immensely grateful for the service, dedication and sacrifice of our Veterans and honour all who have served and continue to serve our country. Through our Helmets to Hardhats Hub, we’re privileged to provide learning tools and resources that help Veterans embark on meaningful careers in the skilled construction trades."
"We have a social contract with our military servicemen and women who protect our country and preserve our freedoms, which means we have a responsibility to ensure they have a civilian life to transition to when their service is complete. With around 8000 Canadian Armed Forces members released from service every year, our government is proud to work with Helmets to Hardhats to train Veterans so that they can leverage their expertise and experience to land new careers in construction. These careers are more than a paycheck – they offer stable future and a community of workers who have your back."
"The Millwright Regional Council deeply values the skills, discipline, and leadership Veterans bring to the workforce. Through our partnership with Helmets to Hardhats, we are honoured to support Veterans as they transition into rewarding second careers in the millwright trade. Our scholarship program is just one way we aim to provide the tools and opportunities needed for Veterans to succeed and thrive in civilian life and we are proud to stand alongside them and offer a pathway to a fulfilling future."
"During this time of reflection, we honour the sacrifices of our Veterans and acknowledge the unique challenges they face in transitioning to civilian life. The Nova Scotia Construction Sector Council is proud to partner with Helmets to Hardhats on training opportunities, connections to employment and providing supports that empower Veterans to build meaningful careers in the construction industry. Through our collaboration we work to ensure that Veterans have access to the resources and pathways they need to create bright futures for themselves and their families."
For more information on our programs or to get involved, visit www.helmetstohardhats.ca or contact us at support@helmetstohardhats.ca
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Helmets to Hardhats (H2H) applaud the 2024 Ontario Budget, announced yesterday. This government recognizes the contributions and vital importance that the construction industry will make to continue growing Ontario's economy and meeting the needs of our expanding communities. Through the Building Ontario Fund, we will see investments and advancements in our province's infrastructure to ensure our province can continue to thrive and support future generations.
Helmets to Hardhats also recognizes the government's emphasis on investing in the skilled trades workforce to ensure they get the skills and training they need for in-demand jobs. This includes an additional $100 million in the Skills Development Fund, which has been supporting Helmets to Hardhats and the Ontario economy by allowing us to train and refer former military personnel into second careers in the skilled trades.
The 2024 Ontario Budget also focuses on attracting youth to explore promising careers in the skilled trades by advancing various programs to break the stigma and simplify the apprentice system. This will enable H2H to play a more significant role in meeting the demands of the Ontario labour market as we continue to promote in-demand and life-long careers in the skilled trades to the young men and women of the Canadian military as they seek rewarding civilian careers.
H2H is excited by the funding provisions in the 2024 Ontario Budget and recognizes the Ontario government as an ally of the unionized construction industry and the military community. The construction industry will continue to thrive with these investments and the value added by hiring Veterans.
On November 11th, we honour the brave men and women who have served or are serving our nation in the Canadian military. Today, we collectively pause to remember their sacrifices and pay tribute to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, defending the rights and freedoms that we, as Canadians, cherish.
One way to remember and recognize the dedicated service of Canadian Veterans is by providing them with meaningful civilian employment as they transition into a new chapter in their life. Many Veterans leave the service at a young age, with a long working career ahead of them. They have acquired elite skills, training and a work ethic that is unmatched. This year, as we remember the fallen, Helmets to Hardhats encourages you to continue to stand up for the Veterans looking for careers in your communities.
We will never forget the sacrifices the Canadian Armed Forces members and our Veterans have made for us. Therefore, we have made it our mission to offer our services to support them as they find well-paying second careers in the unionized construction industry. To minimize the stress of our clients and simultaneously reduce skill shortages across Canada, Helmets to Hardhats works with Canada's 14 international unions that represent 60+ different trades by referring Veterans to available opportunities.
Today and every day, we pay tribute to the Canadian service members, past and present, who have served in uniform to keep Canadians safe.
Lest we forget
Helmets to Hardhats is grateful to the many contributions it has received in the 10 years we have served the military community. The real recipients of these donations are the men and women who have found meaningful careers after their military service. Read their stories to see how your donations impact not only the Veteran, but their families as well.
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