The students in Camp Pendleton Welding Class 46 have officially reached the halfway mark of their advanced UA VIP training.
The UA VIP program is a DOD SkillBridge program created to assist active-duty service members as they transition out of the military and into a civilian career.
Marine Cpl. Nelson Marquez described his time in the UA VIP program so far as informative. He started learning on day one and continues to learn more every day, he said.
“I had zero experience before UA VIP, so learning the basics of welding, cutting and pipe fitting has been very valuable,” he said.
Marquez said he decided to join the UA VIP program because it was the most beneficial route.
“UA VIP sounded better than other programs because it does not use our GI Bill and it helps set us up for success in the workforce after the military,” Marquez said.
Before joining the program, Marquez had no experience in the trades, but he is confident he will be ready to begin his apprenticeship once he graduates and transitions out of the military.
Marquez will relocate to Austin, Texas, after he graduates and transitions out of the military to begin his apprenticeship with UA Local 286.
Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer Sky Weis said his experience in the UA VIP program has been outstanding.
“I am very grateful that I was accepted into this amazing opportunity,” he said. “The instructors are very well trained and I am confident they will be able to teach me how to become a certified welder and a valuable member of the UA.”
Weis discovered the UA VIP program after searching for welding jobs for military members. He is excited to join an organization with similar camaraderie as the military.
“Any transitioning service member should apply for the UA VIP program,” Weis said. “I would tell them to consider joining the UA VIP program because it sets you up for success post-military service with a good-paying job in a field that is very hard to get into.”
Weis plans to stay in California and begin his apprenticeship with UA Local 393, San Jose.
Other Class 46 students will travel to various parts of Texas, California, Oklahoma, Washington, Wisconsin and New Jersey to begin their apprenticeships.
Prepare for a career with the UA
The UA VIP program prepares students with the skills necessary to thrive in a civilian pipe trades career.
UA VIP graduates are guaranteed direct entry into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program and job placement with a UA signatory contractor.
After transitioning from the military, VIP students are placed with a UA Local Union at an agreed-upon location nationwide, where they will complete their five-year apprenticeship program.
While working as apprentices, VIP graduates earn good union wages and quickly qualify for comprehensive healthcare benefits for themselves and their families.
All interested active-duty service members who are looking for a rewarding career are encouraged to apply for the UA VIP program.
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