Camp Pendleton UA VIP Program Welding Class 25 graduates 16 members

It was a special day for the Camp Pendleton UA VIP Program Welding Class 25, as 16 members graduated from the intensive 18-week training program.

In addition to a job, each VIP graduate will enter a UA apprenticeship program, where they will receive additional free classroom and on-the-job training in the pipe trades on their way to becoming a journeymen.

UA VIP Administrator Mike Hazard said the students should be proud of their hard work, which has positioned them to succeed when they start their new jobs.

 “The VIP graduates of Welding Class 25 have proved through their hard work and dedication over the past 18 weeks that they are ready to make an immediate impact with their newly developed skills in their new careers as UA apprentices, and we wish them the best of luck,” said Hazard.

 Sean Ellis, UA VIP Instructor at Camp Pendleton, told the graduates that their success in the field has a lot to do with consistency.

 “Success isn't always about greatness,” said Ellis. “Success is about consistency. Consistent hard work gains success. Greatness will follow.”

Having completed the intensive 18-week training course, the graduates will have the opportunity to make their mark in the piping trades industry.

 The UA VIP Program operates on eight military bases across the country. Active-duty members of the Armed Forces who are preparing to transition out of the service are eligible to participate in the free on-base career-training program.

 Once accepted into the program, members go through an accelerated 18-week training course featuring classroom education and hands-on skills instruction. Upon graduation from the program, graduates are given the opportunity to accept an apprenticeship with an agreed upon UA Local. Upon leaving the military, graduates will begin an UA apprenticeship and are guaranteed a job with one of their signatory contractors.