The U.S. Army Reserve and the Army National Guard signed an agreement with Helmets to Hardhats at the Pentagon on July 2 that allows soldiers greater access to career opportunities in the construction industry.

Helmets to Hardhats is a nonprofit program that works with the 15 building and construction trades and more than 80,000 employers represented by nine leading contractor associations to help connect servicemembers to quality career opportunities in the skilled trades.

As part of the Army Reserve Employer Partnership Initiative, the joint venture will benefit all parties by recruiting and training highly skilled workers to serve both the civilian and military sectors.

According to Maj. Gen. Raymond Carpenter, acting director of the Army National Guard, "More than anything, Helmets to Hardhats brings the opportunities to our soldiers to come back and find a job if they don't have one."
 
Darrell L. Roberts, executive director of Helmets to Hardhats, said he wants the program to help soldiers with "careers that are not short term, not dead-end jobs, but opportunities coupled with skilled training that helps place the servicemember on a path to sustained, secure career opportunities."

“I’m pleased to begin this partnership with Helmets to Hardhats, an organization that has been a great friend to the military. I look forward to collaborating with our newest valued partner to achieve mutual goals to attract, develop and retain a quality workforce,” said Lt. Gen. Jack C. Stultz, Chief, Army Reserve. “This is a natural partnership because Army Reserve Soldiers are well-trained and have the appropriate skill set for the building and construction industry.”

Started in 2008, the Employer Partnership Initiative helps soldiers succeed in their chosen career while serving their country.