Alberta is showing its commitment to Canadian Armed Forces veterans with a $300,000 investment in Helmets to Hardhats. They are a non-profit organization that helps military members transition into Alberta's booming skilled-trades sector.
Founded in 2012, Helmets to Hardhats has long connected veterans with rewarding careers in construction. The grant supports their Skilled Pathway program, offering apprenticeship education for veterans, reservists, and military families.
Additionally, participants receive safety certification, personal safety equipment, supervisory training, and employment referrals. The program prepares service members for entry-level roles and supervisory positions, bridging the gap between military service and the skilled-labour market.
“Having recently commemorated Remembrance Day, I want to emphasize supporting veterans through the entire year,” said Rajan Sawhney, Alberta’s Minister of Advanced Education.
“I’m excited to partner with Helmets to Hardhats to open new doors for Alberta’s service members. I am confident their hard work and dedication will translate seamlessly to post-service careers in the trades.”
Meanwhile, the 18-month program will equip 50 participants with construction safety and supervisory training. Of those, 40 will enter apprenticeship programs and become members of Alberta trade unions.
Jim Hogarth, national executive director of Helmets to Hardhats Canada, highlighted the program’s dual benefits for veterans and the labour market.
“This initiative is a direct result of the Alberta government’s support, particularly Minister Sawhney," said Hogarth. "It will have a profound impact on the lives of our veterans as they transition into second careers. With this program, we’re helping to fill Alberta’s workforce gaps and offering military families a chance at a fulfilling and sustainable career in construction.”
A Win for Veterans and Industry
As Alberta’s economy grows, so does the demand for skilled tradespeople. This program aims to reduce barriers for veterans and reservists. Additionally, it helps them find rewarding careers while meeting the province’s labour needs.
Trade unions across Alberta have expressed their support for the initiative. International Union of Operating Engineers 955, business manager Chris Flett, praised the government investment.
"IUOE 955 is very pleased to see the Alberta government provide support to the H2H Skilled Pathway program, which helps open the door to a rewarding career in the skilled trades for those who have bravely served our nation," stated Flett. "Our union has been an active partner with Helmets to Hardhats for some time, and we’re honoured to be able to help skill up our veterans in the trades we operate in, which assists them transition into civilian life.”
Mack Walker, who holds the same position at Boilermakers Local Lodge 146, agrees.
“The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers and Boilermakers Local Lodge 146 has had a longstanding partnership with Helmets to Hardhats," said Walker. "We are pleased by this announcement from Minister Sawhney and Alberta’s government. We are proud to support the Canadian Armed Forces and Helmets to Hardhats’ hard work in transitioning military personnel to a career in the trades is a welcome addition to unionized construction in Alberta.”
Making the transition either
Alberta Advanced Education recognizes certifications the Department of National Defence provides, enabling seamless transitions into the skilled trades. Additionally, veterans, senior cadets, and Afghan interpreters, along with their families, are eligible for the program.
The Helmets to Hardhats Skilled Pathway program also prepares participants for long-term success. It equips them with industry-standard safety and supervisory skills and ensures job site readiness. After completing the program, participants can pursue apprenticeships in one of Alberta’s 50 designated trades.
Its partnerships with unions, government, and industry have made a tangible difference for military families across Canada. Alberta’s investment builds on this legacy, reinforcing the province’s commitment to its veterans.
Read more: Harper new head of AIMCo
Locally owned and community driven, the Lloydminster Meridian Source is the online news source in the Border City. Whether it’s breaking news, features or sports, if you have questions about what’s going on around town, then Source it with us.
Since online platforms no longer support the sharing of news, we encourage you to bookmark meridiansource.ca. So, whether you’re having a coffee or enjoying a meal, check in any time for the most up-to-date news in Lloydminster.
