After years of dedicated service to his country, Army Sgt. David Lee was looking for a rewarding civilian career.
After joining Joint Base Lewis-McChord Welding Class 1, he found his answer in the UA VIP program.
UA VIP is a DOD SkillBridge program that offers transitioning military members the chance to learn the skills necessary for a rewarding civilian career in the pipe trades.
Lee described his transition from the military as “seamless,” crediting the UA VIP program for making everything easier. 
“The UA VIP program afforded me an opportunity to pursue a rewarding career,” Lee said.
After he graduated from Class 1 and transitioned out of the military, Lee relocated to Boston to begin his apprenticeship with UA Local 537, where he is now a journeyman.
While there were several SkillBridge programs, Lee said the UA VIP program stood out because it offered hands-on welding training and a guaranteed job.
As soon as he arrived in Boston, he began working, feeling prepared and well-informed for any project he might undertake.
Since then, he’s worked on major pharmaceutical labs and GMP projects, putting his skills to the test on some of the industry’s most precise builds.
“The VIP program is hands down the best SkillBridge program out there,” Lee said. “You will get everything out of it that you put in. Signing up for it was one of the best decisions I ever made.”
Lee’s journey is proof that with the right training and support, transitioning from military service to a prosperous civilian career is not only possible but it’s within reach for anyone willing to take the first step.
Begin a civilian career with the UA
UA VIP graduates are placed at a UA Local Union at an agreed-upon location to complete their five-year apprenticeship program with guaranteed job placement.
During their apprenticeship, UA VIP graduates earn good union pay and quality health insurance, including a pension and a 401K. As apprentices increase their knowledge in the trade, they will receive regular wage increases.
After successfully completing the UA apprenticeship program, UA VIP graduates achieve the status of journeymen, opening more doors for career advancement.
The UA VIP program offers 118 days of advanced training in welding, HVACR or fire suppression at the following military installations:
- Camp Pendleton (welding)
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (welding and HVACR)
- Fort Carson (welding)
- Fort Hood (welding)
- Camp Lejeune (welding)
- Fort Campbell (welding and fire suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVACR)
Service members interested in applying for the UA VIP program do not need to be stationed at one of these bases to apply.
Comments