In 2013, Army Spc. William “Billy” Northrop took the first step toward a rewarding civilian career by joining the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program, opening the door to new opportunities in the pipe trades.
Before he transitioned out of the military, Northrop enrolled in Joint Base Lewis-McChord Welding Class 1, where he gained foundational skills in the pipe trades through hands-on training and classroom instruction. 
After completing the UA VIP program, Northrop moved to Boston to start his apprenticeship with UA Local 537. He has since advanced to journeyman.
Northop is thankful for his time in the UA VIP program and said it provided him with a career opportunity when his initial plans fell through.
“Transitioning from one career to the next is scary, but the UA and military have one huge similarity, and that’s camaraderie,” he said. “That is something most military personnel are seeking. That Brotherhood from one career to the next helped me feel accepted.”
Northrop said he felt prepared on the first day of his apprenticeship thanks to what he learned in the UA VIP program.
“The UA VIP program trained us to be more prepared than most first and second-year apprentices,” Northrop said.
Since transitioning out of the military over 10 years ago, Northrop has worked on many projects, including heating and cooling jobs and different sports venues. He is currently working on a large semiconductor project.
“The VIP program gave me direction and an opportunity when I didn’t have one,” Northrop said. “I know the training I received personally helped me excel when I got the opportunity to work.”
Northrop highly recommends the UA VIP program to any active-duty service member looking to transition back into civilian life, calling the program a gift.
“UA VIP provided me with a career that I love when I had no idea what my next move was,” he said. “The program gives you an opportunity and it’s on you to see it out. When you see how much the UA VIP program coordinators care and how much effort they put into it, the only choice is to succeed.”
Apply for UA VIP
UA VIP is a DOD SkillBridge program designed to help active-duty service members who are preparing to leave the service learn skills that will help them begin a civilian career in the pipe trades.
After graduating from the UA VIP program and transitioning out of the military, UA VIP graduates will be placed with a UA Local Union at an agreed-upon location to begin their apprenticeships. 
While working as apprentices, UA VIP graduates will earn good union wages and quality full-family healthcare and retirement benefits, including a pension and a 401K.
Apprentices can eventually top out and become experienced journeymen in their trade, which opens up excellent career paths with potential for advancement in the piping industry.
Active-duty service members who are considering transitioning out of the military and want to begin a civilian career that will allow them to provide for themselves and their families are encouraged to apply for the UA VIP program.
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