October 10, 2013 – The Government of New Brunswick is investing $50,000 in Helmets to Hardhats Canada, a national not-for-profit organization providing apprenticeship training to current or former members of the Armed Forces or Reserves who are seeking a civilian career.

“This program will help veterans, especially our younger veterans, make the transition from military service to good jobs in the skilled trades, where we need more workers,” said Brian Macdonald, legislative secretary to the premier for intergovernmental affairs and military affairs. “The west-to-east pipeline, oil and gas development—as well as mining—are going to grow our economy. We will need skilled workers to continue building New Brunswick. Our veterans should be part of that prosperity.”

The program is an opportunity for members of the military—as well as unions, contractors, owners and associations within Canada’s building, construction and maintenance industries—to match employment needs with potential employment openings.

“The building trades unions are proud to partner with the New Brunswick government to provide training and jobs for our veterans,” said Andrew Dawson, president of the New Brunswick carpenters’ union. “The construction unions recognize the valuable contribution that members of the Canadian Forces have made to our country, as well as their outstanding qualities and experience that can transfer into a successful career in the skilled trades.”