VTA aims to Increase Veteran Hiring Easing Transition to Civilian Life

Houston, TX–Veteran Chaunté Hall has partnered with employers, training programs, and veteran groups to form the Victory Trades Alliance (VTA) to increase veteran hiring in the MEP trades (Mechanical [Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning “HVAC”], Electrical, and Plumbing).  VTA will bring together veterans, transitioning military members, training programs, and employers for their mutual benefit.

Since 2012, the MEP trades have experienced significant demand for skilled tradesmen, and this demand is expected to continue for the foreseeable future.  This high demand has caused considerable difficulties for the construction and MEP service industries as companies have struggled to find suitably trained workers.  This shortage of workers has persisted despite average salaries in the trades which are above those of college-educated workers of similar ages.

Chaunté Hall said in a statement:

“The Victory Trades Alliance is working to bring transitioning military personnel and veterans together with employers in the MEP trades, through MEP training programs and schools.  VTA is there to make employers and potential MEP employees aware of the training opportunities that exist, to everyone’s benefit.

“When we’re looking at the post-COVID world, what are the economic opportunities going to look like?  How are we going to ensure, in an increasingly competitive global environment, that we have that backbone of highly skilled individuals, that highly-skilled workforce, that America’s economic strength and stability absolutely depend on?

“As more employers realize the benefits of having us work from home, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing are more important than ever.  I personally can’t go outside and look at my AC unit and fix it.  So, this essential personnel are going to continue to be highly valued post-COVID.

“It’s an opportunity for those that are interested.  The whole purpose of the Victory Trades Alliance is to debunk the myths that are associated with the trades.  There are over 200 skilled trades within the construction, transportation, manufacturing, and mechanical sectors that need well-trained workers.

“Employers know that veterans make some of their best employees, but many haven’t realized that it’s in their best interest to help veterans get the training they need to become successful MEP tradesmen.  At the same time, veterans and transitioning military often have difficulty in re-entering civilian life, and having a path to an in-demand, good-paying job is one of the best ways to make this transition easier.

“What we’re doing with the Victory Trades Alliance is a win-win for everyone involved.  Employers have access to a pool of dedicated, disciplined, skilled tradesmen.  Veterans and transitioning military personnel have a clear pathway to good jobs that will allow them to support themselves and their families.  Training programs can enroll, train, and place graduates in good positions across the country.

“I’m simply honored that I get to be a voice and an advocate for the trades.  And, as a veteran, I’m excited to be able to give something back to my fellow vets, while helping strengthen our country’s economy.”

Chaunté Hall is a 15-year USAF veteran and Co-Founder and CEO of the Centurion Military Alliance, an organization that facilitates the transition from active duty service to civilian life by working with the DoD, veterans, families, spouses, nonprofits and industry leaders across the U.S.  Her service experience as well as her experience in assisting transitioning servicemen and women make her an ideal candidate to head the VTA.

For more information about the Victory Trades Alliance, or to arrange an appearance or interview with Chaunté Hall, go to https://www.victorytradesalliance.com or on Facebook @VictoryTrades.