The United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program welcomed another class of transitioning active-duty service members who are interested in training for a future civilian career in the pipe trades.
On Aug. 19, the students in Camp Lejeune Welding Class 27 began their accelerated welding training.
UA VIP is a DOD SkillBridge program created to help active-duty service members smoothly transition from military life to a rewarding civilian lifestyle.
Marine Cpl. Danny Ramirez Hernandez had prior welding experience during his Marine service and was excited to continue learning the trade.
“I learned about the VIP program through SkillBridge Orientation and immediately applied because I want to further my career as a welder and this class brings everything a welder needs to succeed,” Hernandez said.
Hernandez hopes to learn as much as possible and earn certifications before he begins his UA apprenticeship.
“When I get placed with a Local Union, I will continue learning so I can move up as a journeyman and eventually into other positions,” he said.
Marine Cpl. Marquis Branson discovered the UA VIP program through the Marine Corps Community Services website and was immediately attracted to it because it offered the opportunity to earn different welding certifications and expand his welding skills.
“During my time in the VIP program, I want to learn about stick and TIG welding along with overall pipe fitting knowledge,” Branson said.
Over the next 118 days, Hernandez, Branson and their fellow Class 27 classmates will learn oxy-fuel cutting and SMAW and GRAW welding on plates and pipes. They will also have the opportunity to receive certifications in SMAW and GTAW pipe welding.
The UA VIP program offers training in welding, HVAC-R and fire suppression at the following seven military installations:
- Camp Pendleton (welding)
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (welding and HVAC-R)
- Fort Carson (welding)
- Fort Cavazos (welding)
- Camp Lejeune (welding)
- Fort Campbell (welding and fire suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVAC-R)
Apply for the UA VIP program today
During the program, UA VIP students will learn the basics of welding, HVAC-R or fire suppression through classroom instruction and hands-on training.
After graduating and transitioning out of the military, UA VIP students are placed into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program at an agreed-upon location, where they are guaranteed a job with a UA signatory contractor.
Once VIP graduates begin their apprenticeship, they will receive good wages and comprehensive healthcare.
After apprentices top out, they will open the door to a plethora of career advancement opportunities as a journeyman welder.
All active-duty service members in their last six months of military commitment are encouraged to apply for the UA VIP program and start a rewarding civilian career.
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