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BENTONVILLE, Ark. (July 30, 2016) — UHP (Unlock Human Potential) today celebrates the first graduating class of its Skilled Trades Institute, marking the launch of a new workforce development model created in collaboration with several employers, including Walmart, to prepare veterans for in-demand skilled trades careers.
Today’s ceremony graduates UHP’s largest class to date with 124 students, including the nation’s first nine graduates of the UHP Skilled Trades Institute. The accelerated program combines hands-on training and employer collaboration to prepare veterans for highly in-demand skilled trades careers.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, the country is projected to face a shortage of more than 2.1 million skilled-trades workers by 2030. UHP created the Skilled Trades Institute to address two critical needs: helping veterans successfully transition after military service and strengthening America’s skilled trades workforce through accelerated, industry-focused training.
“As a former electrician, skilled trades training is vital in our industry,” said RJ Zanes, Vice President, Walmart Facility Services. “Through our collaboration with UHP, we’re expanding opportunities for veterans while helping build the skilled workforce our facilities will need for years to come.”
UHP is working to help veterans transition into civilian careers while strengthening the pipeline of skilled trades talent. Participants receive technical training from UHP experts while gaining exposure to employers’ career opportunities.
Walmart Academy, the largest private training ecosystem in the nation, has helped create elements of the UHP training experience to align with the skills needed for in-demand technician roles, supporting participants as they build relevant industry knowledge and prepare for potential career opportunities.
“This program is more than preparing veterans for jobs,” said Matt Hesse, Founder and CEO of UHP. “It’s about helping them build purpose after service. By combining immersive training and direct access to employers, we’re creating a new model for veteran transition, one that connects veterans with opportunity while helping meet America’s growing demand for skilled workers.”
UHP Skilled Trades Institute is a subsidiary of UHP, a veteran-focused education and leadership development organization that has served thousands of veterans, military spouses, and dependents since 2021. Applications are now open for upcoming training cohorts, with additional programs planned throughout the coming year.
Media Contact:
Brecke Boyd
press@uhp.com
202.290.6108
Media Kit Available Upon Request
About UHP
UHP (Unlock Human Potential) is a veteran-focused education and leadership development organization headquartered in Bentonville, Arkansas. Through immersive programs and hands-on training, UHP helps service members, veterans, military spouses, and dependents develop the skills, mindset, and leadership capabilities needed to thrive in their next chapter. Its holistic approach combines leadership development with real-world skill-building to prepare individuals for meaningful, long-term careers. Learn more at UHP.com.
