Resources / Nonprofit
Helmets to Hardhats
A nonprofit that connects military veterans and transitioning service members to registered apprenticeships and careers in the building trades.
Official resourceNo-cost resource
This profile is provisional — some details may have changed. Confirm specifics on the official site before applying.
Helmets to Hardhats (H2H) is a national, no-cost program that helps active-duty, National Guard, Reserve, and veteran service members move into federally approved apprenticeship programs in the construction trades — often without needing prior civilian experience. Many pathways pair with the GI Bill so veterans can receive a housing allowance while they train. H2H is backed by North America's Building Trades Unions.
Why we recommend it
It's a free, trusted bridge from military service into paid union apprenticeships, with GI Bill compatibility that few other paths offer.
Pros
- +Free, veteran-specific
- +Direct line into union apprenticeships
- +GI Bill can supplement apprenticeship wages
Watch-outs
- –Focused on union/building-trades pathways
- –Opportunities depend on local program intake
Before you apply
How to applyProfile Creation
Experience neededNo Experience Ok
ReadinessApprenticeship Application Required
Time to applyCreate profile; program timelines vary
License / certsMilitary experience often crosswalks to trade skills; GI Bill may apply to registered apprenticeships.
Coverage
Trades
ElectricianPlumberPipefitterIronworkerWelderCarpenterHeavy Equipment OperatorElevator Constructor
Segments
CommercialIndustrialInfrastructure