Press Release

In recognition of Veterans Day, the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (NASRCC) is highlighting its commitment to helping military veterans build rewarding careers in the skilled trades through training, apprenticeship opportunities, and programs designed to support their transition to civilian employment.

Through its participation in the United Brotherhood of Carpenters Military Veterans Program (MVP), NASRCC helps connect transitioning service members and veterans with opportunities to pursue careers in carpentry and other skilled trades. The program recognizes the discipline, leadership, and practical experience gained through military service while providing participants with the additional training needed to succeed in the construction industry.

To mark Veterans Day, NASRCC Local 277 will host a ceremony at its Syracuse office, located at 6920 Princeton Court, on Wednesday, November 11, at 1 p.m. The event will include the unveiling of a commemorative plaque honoring the local’s veteran members, with future graduates of the MVP Program at Fort Drum and a representative from State Senator Mark Walczyk’s office expected to attend. The ceremony will recognize the contributions of veterans within the union while highlighting the opportunities available to transitioning service members pursuing careers in the skilled trades.

“Serving our country takes commitment, discipline, and a willingness to put something bigger than yourself first. Those are qualities we value in every union carpenter,” said James Mason, NASRCC. “Our responsibility to veterans doesn’t end when they take off the uniform. We want to make sure the men and women who served have opportunities to build meaningful careers, support their families, and put their skills to work. Programs like MVP help make that possible.”

The MVP program offers eligible veterans eight weeks of free, hands-on training, preparing them for careers as carpenters, millwrights, and pile drivers. Graduates receive direct entry into an apprenticeship program with one year of credit toward their training, helping establish a pathway to careers offering competitive wages, health benefits, and retirement security.

The program also provides opportunities for veterans without prior construction experience, recognizing that the skills developed through military service can translate into success in the trades.

“Leaving the military, I knew I wanted a career where I could keep working with my hands, learning new skills, and being part of a team,” said Thomas Butler, a retired U.S. Army veteran and MVP program graduate. “The program gave me a chance to take what I learned through my service and apply it to something new. I came away with practical training, a clearer sense of where I wanted to go, and a real opportunity to build a career.”

Beyond MVP, NASRCC connects veterans with additional resources, including Helmets to Hardhats, which helps transitioning service members pursue union apprenticeships and employment opportunities in the construction industry.

As NASRCC recognizes veterans across its membership and communities this Veterans Day, the union remains focused on ensuring that those who served have access to the training, support, and opportunities needed to succeed after military service.

Veterans interested in learning more about available programs and career opportunities can visit nasrcc.org/vets