HALIFAX – The Government of Nova Scotia has officially launched “Skills Bridge,” a new initiative designed to provide a direct pathway for military veterans and their families to enter the province’s construction sector. The program aims to help at least 100 individuals transition into the skilled trades over the next three years, ensuring that those who served the country have a clear and supported route to high-quality civilian employment.
The initiative is being delivered in partnership with Helmets to Hardhats (H2H), a non-profit organization that specializes in connecting former military personnel with unionized construction careers. With a provincial investment of approximately $400,000 over three years, the program will provide participants with essential technical training and leadership development. By focusing on the unique strengths of veterans—such as discipline, teamwork, and problem-solving—the government hopes to integrate these skilled individuals directly into active job sites.
Labour, Skills, and Immigration Minister Nolan Young emphasized that the discipline and expertise of veterans are invaluable assets to the construction industry. This program is not just about employment; it is a strategic move to address a looming labor crisis. With more than 5,000 workers in the construction sector expected to retire over the next decade, the province is in urgent need of a new generation of skilled tradespeople to build essential infrastructure, including housing and hospitals.
Beyond filling immediate job vacancies, the ‘Skills Bridge’ program is expected to strengthen Nova Scotia’s overall economic growth. By bridging the gap between military service and civilian certification, the province is ensuring that veterans can apply their years of experience to help solve the housing and labor shortages currently facing the region. This initiative represents a win-win for both the veterans seeking meaningful second careers and a province in need of a dedicated, highly skilled workforce.
