INSTALL, the floorcovering industry’s most recognized training and certification program, has partnered with Helmets to Hardhats in both the United States and Canada to actively recruit veterans into the floorcovering workforce.

Helmets to Hardhats has independent but complimentary programs in both the United States and Canada. This nonprofit program connects National Guard, Reserve, retired and transitioning active-duty military service members with skilled training and quality career opportunities in the construction industry. The program is designed to help military service members successfully transition back into civilian life by offering them the means to secure a quality career in the construction industry.

INSTALL is a quality training and certification program dedicated to putting highly skilled floorcoverers to work in an industry that is suffering from a shortage in skilled labor. The two programs, recognizing the great potential to help each other, established the partnership with the ultimate goal of putting more veterans to work.

“This is a situation where justice, patriotism, and good business are all served,” said John McGrath, executive director, INSTALL. “Our veterans are disciplined, team- and goal-oriented and deserve all the help in re-entering civilian life that can be provided. INSTALL and our contractors appreciate their service in defending our freedom and liberties and are eager to embrace our veterans. Work is plentiful and we have the opportunities available.”

Through this partnership, INSTALL has committed to dedicated efforts to recruit INSTALL contractors to sponsor a veteran in INSTALL’s industry accredited apprenticeship program and upon completion, employ them as a full-time journeyman. Helmets to Hardhats will work to educate the veterans in their program as to the benefits of a career in the floorcovering industry, directing them to the INSTALL program as the path to training, certification and employment. INSTALL and H2H have set a goal of getting at least one veteran enrolled in the INSTALL apprenticeship program per month in 2016.

Getting Involved

INSTALL contractors that would like to support this partnership must commit to sponsoring a veteran in the INSTALL apprenticeship program and hiring him or her. For this commitment, contractors will be recognized as partners of Helmets to Hardhats. Once a contractor has committed to the program by contacting INSTALL, H2H will match the company with potential candidates for the position. Flooring contractors interested in this program should contact John McGrath, INSTALL executive director, info@installfloors.wpengine.com.

Veterans interested in pursuing a career in floorcovering through the INSTALL program should begin the process by contacting Helmets to Hardhats.

United States: rschwartz@helmetstohardhats.org | Canada: info@helmetstohardhats.ca