Vets Access, LLC, founded in 2005, is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business dedicated to supporting veterans by providing specialized medical equipment and services across the U.S., including Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Guam. As project management specialists, Vets Access ensures that veterans receive the best possible products and services, addressing the unique challenges they face with empathy and respect. Recognizing the need to go beyond traditional support, the company has expanded its mission to help veterans thrive in various facets of life, including career development.
In response to a growing skills gap in the construction industry, particularly in residential carpentry, Vets Access partnered with GST Michigan Works! to launch a hybrid apprenticeship program specifically tailored for veterans. This innovative program combines hands-on training with classroom instruction, enabling participants to gain essential carpentry skills in a supportive and structured environment. Led by Chris Emmons, the program director at Vets Access, the apprenticeship is designed not only to meet industry demands but also to honor the unique experiences and backgrounds of veterans, helping them transition into fulfilling civilian careers.
With funding from a $6,000 MiSTAIRS Grant and additional financial support from GST Michigan Works!, Vets Access has been able to cover training costs for its apprentices, removing financial barriers to participation. The three apprentices in the program are actively engaged in real-world carpentry projects alongside experienced professionals, gaining practical skills and building a strong sense of community. Through this initiative, Vets Access is not only equipping veterans with valuable, job-ready skills but also reinforcing their connections to one another and to their new profession, empowering them for long-term success in the workforce.
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