WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement regarding the unanimous House passage of his legislation, H.R. 147, the Bringing Registered Apprenticeships to Veterans Education (BRAVE) Act:

“We provide America’s servicemembers with world-class training to fulfill their responsibilities to our nation, and it is only right that we provide them with world-class opportunities as they transition back into civilian society,” said Congressman Donald Norcross, the author of the bill. “The men and women of the U.S. Armed Services are highly skilled and uniquely qualified for Registered Apprenticeships, which allow apprentices to earn while they learn and build toward a fulfilling career in a skilled trade.”

According to the Department of Labor, 92% of apprentices who complete a Registered Apprenticeship retain employment, with an average annual salary of $72,000. For comparison, the average starting salary for a graduate of a traditional four-year college is around $55,000 a year.

“Programs like Helmets to Hardhats act as pipelines for the veteran community into the skilled trades. But without the education and training piece, these vital career pathways aren’t being tapped to their fullest potential,” continued Norcross. “That’s why I’m proud the BRAVE Act passed today. It will bridge servicemembers to long-term, family-sustaining careers.”

There are an estimated 3 million veterans who served in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, many of whom are considered “prime working age” or between the ages of 25-54.

The BRAVE Act provides servicemembers transitioning off active duty better access to information about and access to VA-certified registered apprenticeship programs. It also extends Post-9/11 GI Bill stipend benefits to participants in these registered apprenticeship programs.

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Contact: Britton Burdick, Communications Director
britton.burdick@mail.house.gov