Information for Veterans

For eligible veterans, apprenticeship offers special opportunities. The Missouri State Approving Agency (SAA) has been contracted by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to approve GI Bill programs in the State of Missouri for veterans and other eligible persons. Each state has State Approving Agents whose function is to inspect, approve, and supervise qualified educational programs as well as on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs for GI Bill purposes. Eligible individuals under the GI Bill may choose to learn by working on the job. The State's approval is necessary before veterans and other eligible persons can receive their GI Bill benefits. Work experience in the occupation can be counted toward the credits required for skilled worker status.

For more information, please visit the link below:
http://www.dese.mo.gov/divcareered/documents/VetEd_directory_Jan2009.pdf

Helmets to Hardhats is a national program that connects transitioning active-duty and reserve-component members with training and employment opportunities with the construction industry.

The statewide direct-entry program provides a common agreement between Building and Construction Trades, Joint Apprenticeship Training Councils, locals (at their discretion) and Helmets to Hardhat leaders to support candidates in that state. The program allows candidates to start construction careers soon after they apply, and also gives them credit for military training and experience.

The intent of the program is to help those with military experience get hired in civilian construction trades that the program's organizers claim are facing a critical labor shortage.

Military personnel interested in a construction career should visit www.helmetstohardhats.org, or call (866) 741-6210 or your One-Stop Veterans Representative.