From Battlefield to Building Site: Helmets to Hardhats Helps Vets Thrive

Leaving the military can be tough. Many service members struggle to find their footing in civilian life, even with valuable skills. They miss the teamwork and sense of purpose they had in uniform. Enter Helmets to Hardhats! This awesome organization bridges the gap, helping our heroes transition into rewarding careers in the building trades.

A Success Story That Hits Home

Meet Devin Carlisle, a veteran and now a proud journeyman with the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers. He’s a shining example of what Helmets to Hardhats can do. "A lot of guys coming out of the military are lost," Devin says. "Helmets to Hardhats helped me provide for my family and the people I care about."

20 Years of Building Futures

Since 2003, Helmets to Hardhats has teamed up with 15 construction trade unions, offering a lifeline to transitioning service members. They help explore different trades, land earn-while-you-learn apprenticeships, and connect with employers.

Martin Helms, executive director, says, "For over 20 years, we've passionately connected service men and women to the Union Building Trades Industry." With over 50,000 successful transitions, they’re super proud to support active duty, reservists, the National Guard, and veterans as they build solid, middle-class careers.

Using Your Benefits Wisely

Helmets to Hardhats also shows service members how to use their G.I. Bill benefits to boost their income while in an apprenticeship.

Devin's Journey: From Supply Specialist to Journeyman

Devin spent five years in the military as a supply specialist. When he was leaving the service, he found Helmets to Hardhats. They hooked him up with the Boilermakers, where he got amazing training.

"I had to go to class and do schoolwork, just like a regular college student, and I was getting paid to do it," Devin recalls. "They sent me out on jobs with a journeyman who taught me the ropes, even welding, which was brand new to me!"

The Payoff

This past January, Devin graduated and became a journeyman! It was hard work, but totally worth it. "I didn't even know if I could get through it, but now I'm a journeyman," he says. "Helmets to Hardhats gave me a career, and it can do the same for many others transitioning out of the military."

Veterans: An Asset to the Workforce

Helmets to Hardhats makes the transition smoother for vets, providing them with stable careers after serving our country. Alabama Power and companies like them are always looking for veterans. Jerry Grissom, VP at Alabama Power, said that the state is blessed with a well-trained and motivated veteran population. They will continue to advocate for policies that supports the well-being of every veteran to find success in civilian life.

Auburn Grads Gear Up to Tackle Science Teacher Shortage!

Get ready to welcome a new wave of science educators! Auburn University's AUTeach program, designed to combat Alabama's science teacher shortage, is sending its first cohort of graduates into the world.

Meet the Future Teachers

Austin Broom, Charity King, and Jackson Belcher are the trailblazers of this innovative program, and they're singing its praises! They say AUTeach has prepped them to rock the classroom.

What They're Saying:

"This program transformed how I teach science!" says Broom. "I feel more prepared than ever!"

King agrees, adding that AUTeach showed her that teaching isn't just a calling, "it’s a call to action."

Belcher raves about the AUTeach faculty, praising their dedication to developing "well-prepared science teachers."

AUTeach: A Game Changer

Launched in 2023, AUTeach combines the expertise of Auburn's College of Education and College of Sciences and Mathematics. With a hefty grant, they've created a hands-on program that lets science majors explore the world of teaching.

How It Works:

Students major in both a science discipline and science teaching, earning certification to teach grades 6-12. The program includes diverse coursework, from science research to classroom management.

These grads are ready to inspire the next generation of thinkers and problem-solvers!

North Alabama Airports Get a Lift!

Big news for North Alabama skies! Cullman and Albertville regional airports are set for some major upgrades, thanks to over $1.9 million in federal Airport Infrastructure Grants! Congressman Robert Aderholt dropped the awesome announcement Wednesday, highlighting the importance of these improvements.

Airport Cash Incoming!

Cullman Regional Airport – Folsom Field is soaring high with $1,011,708, while Albertville Regional Airport – Thomas J. Brumlik Field is cleared for takeoff with $939,038. This is all about boosting those critical infrastructure projects!

Aderholt's Take

"These federal dollars are HUGE for North Alabama," Aderholt stated. "Upgrading our airports helps our economy and keeps everyone safe. It's an investment in the future!"

Cullman's Taxiway Tango

Cullman's getting a shiny new 600-foot Midfield Taxiway, ready to handle more aircraft action. It's Phase 2 of a plan to keep Cullman at the forefront.

Words From Cullman

Ben Harrison, Cullman Regional Airport director, is pumped! "We are so grateful. This helps us develop the airport for the next decade! It's a team effort, and it'll benefit the whole community."

Albertville's Lighting Leap

Albertville's using their grant to overhaul the runway and taxiway lighting on Runway 5/23 and Taxiway A, giving it a much-needed refresh.

Staying Safe and Strong

Aderholt emphasized the importance of keeping these airports up-to-date. "These grants make sure our local airports meet today's safety standards and serve our communities well. They're lifelines for rural areas, boosting the economy and supporting emergency services."

Source: 256 Today

Opp's Wheelhouse: More Than Just a Restaurant

Ever dream of a place so good, it transforms your town? That's exactly what happened in Opp, Alabama, thanks to local resident Merrill Culverhouse and childhood friend/chef Jon Gibson. Together, they built Wheelhouse, a restaurant that's not only thriving but also boosting the community.

A Hometown Hunger

Tired of leaving Opp for a decent meal, Culverhouse envisioned a restaurant that would draw people in, turning Opp into a dining destination. His wife's condition? Partnering with the talented Chef Gibson.

Coastal Comfort & Community Vibes

Wheelhouse boasts a menu of "coastal comfort food," from steaks to Gulf-fresh seafood, all with a touch of local, seasonal flair. The vibe? "Flip-flop casual or not!" Dress it up or down, everyone's welcome.

A Destination Worth Discovering

Folks are traveling from miles around (Crenshaw, Covington, Coffee counties, you name it!) to experience Wheelhouse. Some customers even say it feels like stepping into New Orleans! Culverhouse's goal? To make everyone feel "welcomed and at home."

Honoring the Past, Serving the Present

Located in the historic Donaldson Hotel (circa 1923!), Wheelhouse blends old-world charm with modern tastes. Dining spaces range from cozy private rooms to a lively patio perfect for celebrations. Local art adorns the walls (and it's for sale!), and a handsome bar awaits in the back.

A Chef's Eclectic Touch

Chef Gibson brings a global approach to the kitchen, blending Southern classics with flavors from California, the Pacific Rim, and beyond. Think "Coastal Southern cuisine" and "new American" dishes that are sure to tantalize.

Menu Must-Haves

The menu rotates seasonally, but staples include fantastic steaks, fresh Gulf seafood, a seriously good burger, and pizza based on a Sicilian recipe. Don't miss the Wheelhouse Burger or the Southern Burger! The Tri-Tip Apple Salad is a personal favorite, and the tacos (birria or fish!) are always a hit. And save room for the white chocolate bread pudding or Key lime pie!

More Than Just a Meal

For Culverhouse, Wheelhouse is about more than just good food. It's about giving back to Opp, creating jobs, and providing a gathering place for the community. The name "Wheelhouse" itself is a nod to the town's railroad history, symbolizing a turning point and a new direction.

10 Things We All Hate About Car Key Replace | #key replacements for cars

The Three Greatest Moments In Car Key Replacement History | #auto key replacement

MMOEXP Great Sports Administration Amateur That Are Not Football Manager | #madden 25 coins #cheap Madden 25 coins

What is the Zoomancer Ritualist Summoner Build? | #path of Exile 2 Currency for sale #mmoexp

7 Small Changes That Will Make The Biggest Difference In Your License Uk | #uk driving license online

Weezy's Whirlwind: Mother's Day Drama!

Hold up, ChumCity citizens! Word on the street is Lil Wayne's relationship status just took a nosedive. His fiancée (whoa, things moved fast!), is spilling some serious tea.

Mother's Day Meltdown?

Sources say she's claiming Weezy gave her and her daughter the boot… on Mother's Day! Talk about a plot twist no one saw coming.

Allegations of Abuse

And that's not all. The accusations don't stop at bad timing; she's also alleging physical abuse in the past. Yikes! This story is definitely still developing, but it's already got everyone talking. Stay tuned to ChumCity for more as it unfolds!