The students in Fort Campbell Fire Suppression Class 17 have officially reached the halfway point of their advanced UA VIP training.
The United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) is a DOD SkillBridge program created to assist active-duty service members as they transition out of the military.
Once UA VIP students graduate and transition out of the military, they are guaranteed a job with a UA signatory contractor at an agreed-upon location.
Army Spc. Daniel Hunt said his experience in the UA VIP program has been great because the instructors care about the work and want all the students to succeed.
“I came in with nothing more than a basic knowledge of tools and I have learned so much in just the first half of the class,” he said.
Hunt added that his favorite part of the class so far was completing his first project out of threaded pipe.
After learning about the UA VIP program through a soldier in his unit, Hunt knew it was the program for him.
“I wanted a good, steady, guaranteed job when I got out of the military,” Hunt said. “I knew I did not want to work in an office and VIP seemed like it would be perfect for me.”
Although there are many SkillBridge programs available, Hunt was drawn to UA VIP after listening to instructor Kyle Schrum deliver an inspiring speech about the program and the opportunities it provides.
Army Sgt. Cesar Frias has adjusted well to being in a classroom environment and is surprised by how much he has learned so far.
“My experience has been great,” he said. “My favorite part is seeing how everything comes together.”
Frias joined UA VIP because it offers unique opportunities like a guaranteed job with good pay.
Some Class 17 students will remain in Kentucky to begin their UA apprenticeships. Others will travel to various parts of Texas, Minnesota, Colorado, Maryland, Indiana and Michigan.
Start a career in the pipe trades
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 out of 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 will earn good union wages and quickly qualify for comprehensive healthcare benefits for themselves and their families.
Any 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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