Fort Campbell Fire Suppression Class 14 students celebrated their graduation from the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program on Aug. 29.
Once they transition out of the military, these graduates will begin their new civilian careers as union sprinkler fitters.
The UA VIP program was designed to assist active duty military members in their final six months of service by offering DOD SkillBridge training in the pipe trades to prepare them for a smooth transition into a civilian career.
During class. Fire Suppression Class 14 students were taught the fundamentals of fire suppression by experienced UA journeyman Curtis Amos.
During their time in the program, students had the opportunity to earn certificates in steel pipe threading and grooving, rigging and signaling, copper joining and more. These certifications will help Class 14 students stand apart from other apprentices on jobsites.
The UA VIP program offers accelerated training in welding, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) and fire suppression.
The UA VIP program offers nine training programs at the following military bases:
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (Welding and HVACR)
- Camp Pendleton (welding)
- Fort Carson (welding)
- Fort Cavazos (welding)
- Camp Lejeune (welding)
- Fort Campbell (welding and fire suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVACR)
Start a career in the pipe trades!
The UA VIP program equips transitioning military service members with the essential skills needed to succeed in a civilian pipe trades career.
VIP graduates are guaranteed direct entry into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program and a guaranteed job with a UA signatory contractor.
After transitioning out of the military, VIP students are placed with a UA Local Union at an agreed-upon location where they will begin their five-year apprenticeship program.
While working as apprentices, VIP graduates will earn good union wages and quickly qualify for comprehensive healthcare for themselves and their families.
After topping out and officially becoming journeymen, VIP graduates can advance in their trade and pursue various roles such as foreman, instructor, superintendent, project manager, business owner, and beyond.
Anyone looking to transition out of the military and looking for a rewarding and well-paying civilian career is encouraged to learn more about how to apply on the UA VIP website.
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