The members of Camp Pendleton Welding Class 47 recently celebrated their graduation from the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program, marking the start of their transition from military service to rewarding civilian careers.
The UA VIP program is a DOW SkillBridge program designed to help transitioning active-duty service members in their last six months prepare for a new civilian career with a focus on industry-leading training and guaranteed job placement.
Thanks to the training and hands-on experience the program provides, the graduates possess the basic skills to begin civilian careers in the pipe trades.
Where Class 47 Graduates Are Going
Once they transition out of the military, Camp Pendleton Welding Class 47 graduates are guaranteed a job with a UA signatory contractor. They also gain direct entrance into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program at an agreed-upon location.
After they have completed their military commitment, the graduates from Welding Class 47 will be starting their careers in the following areas:
- Los Angeles – UA Local 250
- Houston – UA Local 211
- Colton, Calif. – UA Local 364
- Phoenix – UA Local 469
- Toledo, Ohio – UA Local 50
- Raleigh, N.C. – UA Local 421
- Minneapolis – UA Local 539
- Bakersfield, Calif. – UA Local 460
- Chicago – UA Local 597
- San Diego – UA Local 230
Advice for Future VIP Students
As a Class 47 graduate, U.S. Marine Corps. Motor Transport Operator and Training Supervisor Martin Enriquez encouraged future students to stay engaged, keep learning and approach the work with the right mindset.
“Keep seeking knowledge and always be proactive, but be safe while doing it,” he said.
That advice reflects the VIP program's standards. Success in welding comes from staying focused, building skills every day and maintaining a strong commitment to safety throughout the process.
The UA Veterans in Piping Program Advantage
UA VIP’s 118-day, 720-hour curriculum helps participants develop skills in one of three crafts — fire suppression, welding or HVACR. The program’s on-base training prepares students for success in the UA’s five-year, debt-free Registered Apprenticeship Programs.
Once they transition out of the military and begin their apprenticeships, UA VIP graduates will earn good union wages as they continue to master their trade. They will quickly qualify for full-family healthcare and start contributing to a pension and a 401(k) for retirement.
The UA VIP program offers nine programs at the following seven military bases:
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (Welding and HVACR)
- Camp Pendleton (Welding)
- Fort Carson (Welding)
- Fort Hood (Welding)
- Camp Lejeune (Welding)
- Fort Campbell (Welding and Sprinkler Fitting)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVACR)
Congratulations, Camp Pendleton Welding Class 47
The UA family applauds your dedication and achievement and welcomes you into our union family. As you embark on this new chapter, know that you are joining a Brotherhood and Sisterhood built on solidarity, opportunity and lifelong learning.
Are you interested in applying to the UA VIP Program at Camp Pendleton? Visit our Camp Pendleton page to learn more about our accelerated welding training for active-duty transitioning service members.
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