On Sept. 15, the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program welcomed another class of transitioning active-duty service members to begin training for a future civilian career in the pipe trades.
Students in Camp Lejeune Welding Class 30 will be taught by journeymen instructors Greg Abrams and Rachel Lablance through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training.
UA VIP is a DOD SkillBridge program designed to help active-duty service members transition smoothly from the military to civilian life.
Over the next 118 days, Class 30 students will learn the basics for a future career in the welding industry. They will also have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications that will propel their careers when they begin their UA apprenticeship.
Class 30 students will learn oxy-fuel cutting and SMAW and GTAW welding on plates and pipes, as well as other various certifications that will be valid when they start their civilian careers.
The UA VIP program is provided free of charge, offering graduates direct entry into a UA VIP apprenticeship program and guaranteed job placement after they transition out of the military.
Transitioning active-duty service members are encouraged to apply for the UA VIP program during their last six months of military commitment.
The UA VIP program offers accelerated training in welding, HVACR and fire suppression at seven military bases across the country.
Applicants do not need to be stationed at one of the following bases in order to apply:
- Camp Pendleton (welding)
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (welding and HVACR)
- Fort Carson (welding)
- Fort Cavazos (welding)
- Camp Lejeune (welding)
- Fort Campbell (welding and fire suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVACR)
Join UA VIP today
UA VIP recognizes that men and women with military experience bring a strong work ethic and other valuable skills into the piping industry, which UA signatory contractors highly value.
Since its inception in 2008, the UA VIP program has sought to address two key issues: veteran unemployment and the growing shortage of skilled construction workers.
The training course has provided thousands of career opportunities to service members who decided to return to civilian life.
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, with guaranteed job placement.
UA VIP graduates will receive good wages and comprehensive healthcare benefits as apprentices. Apprentices will also receive regular wage increases as they expand their skills.
If you are an active-duty military member in your last six months of service, consider applying for the UA VIP program today.
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