Why Union

In this episode of Why Union, we sit down with Martin Helms, Executive Director of Helmets To Hardhats, to talk about the life-changing opportunities available to veterans and transitioning service members through the union skilled trades. Drawing from his own journey from military service to the trades, Helms shares how Helmets to Hardhats helps veterans find purpose, stability, brotherhood, and long-term careers through registered apprenticeship programs.The conversation dives into the parallels between military life and construction work — discipline, teamwork, leadership, and mission-focused thinking — and why union apprenticeships create a natural transition for those leaving the service. Helms also discusses the personal struggles many veterans face when re-entering civilian life, and how programs like H2H provide more than a job: they provide direction, support, and a future.“H2H means more to me than most,” Helms says, reflecting on how discovering the program “changed my life.” He also describes the trades as “a brother and sisterhood, much like the uniform,” highlighting the sense of community veterans often rediscover through union careers.This episode offers an honest look at transition, identity, and opportunity — and shows how the union trades continue to open doors for those who have served.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.