(06/12/06) TRENTON ? A new program designed to help military veterans gain employment kicked off in New Jersey Monday.

The ?Helmets to Hardhats? program addresses a statistic many consider to be a tremendous black eye for veterans. The unemployment rate for vets aged 20-24 is three times the national average. According to veterans, finding a steady job upon their release from the service is often a daunting task.

Helmets to Hardhats matches veterans with various construction jobs. The vets say they?re thrilled to be productive and earn a living at the same time. Employers say they need people with certain skills, namely organization and experience working outdoors, to work for their company.

Related information: Helmets to Hardhats