EDMONTON - Prime Minister Stephen Harper has outlined a plan to help soldiers find jobs once they leave the military.

The program is intended to provide veterans, Armed Forces members and reservists career choices in the construction industry.

It will also offer apprenticeships in various building trades.

Harper says it can be difficult for soldiers to transition to civilian life after a career in the military.

The Helmets to Hard Hats program was first mentioned in last year's budget just before the federal election.

The NDP supported the idea during the campaign.