The United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) students in Fort Campbell Fire Suppression Class 13 are halfway done with their training.
UA VIP is a DOD SkillBridge program that transitioning active-duty service members can join during their last six months of service to help them prepare for civilian life after leaving the military.
Each class meets for 118 days, where students learn different basic pipe trades skills from experienced journeyman instructors. Students learn through hands-on training and classroom instruction.
After graduating from the UA VIP program and transitioning out of the military, VIP graduates are guaranteed job placement at a mutually agreed-upon location.
At this point in their training, Class 13 students learn the UA Local Union where they will begin their five-year apprenticeship program.
Army Sgt. Andy Morales learned he will begin his apprenticeship with Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 142 in San Antonio, Texas after transitioning from the military.
After Army Spc. Carlos Rivers graduates from the UA VIP program and transitions out of the military, he will begin his apprenticeship with Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 189 in Columbus, Ohio.
Other students in Class 13 will begin their apprenticeship programs in different parts of Montana, Florida, North Carolina, Alabama, Colorado, Indiana and Tennessee.
Advance in your UA career
When UA VIP graduates start apprenticeship training, they will receive competitive union wages and swiftly become eligible for comprehensive health insurance for themselves and their families. Apprentices will also begin contributing to a pension and a 401K.
After completing the apprenticeship program, UA VIP graduates become experienced journeymen, opening extensive opportunities and career paths.
Journeymen in the pipe trades can become foremen, superintendents, instructors, UA signatory contractors, business owners or even a UA-officer or organizer.
The UA VIP program provides 118 days of training to help transitioning service members prepare for a civilian career in welding, HVAC-R or fire suppression.
Active-duty service members looking for future careers in the pipe trades are highly encouraged to apply to the UA VIP program.
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