The United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program celebrated the graduation of Fort Campbell Welding Class 25 on April 3.
The UA VIP program, a DOD SkillBridge initiative, is designed to assist transitioning active-duty service members begin a rewarding civilian career in the pipe trades.
After transitioning out of the military, UA VIP graduates are guaranteed direct entry into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program at an agreed-upon location and work with a signatory contractor.
UA VIP journeymen instructors Michael Smith and Chris Johnson taught Class 25 students the basics of welding through classroom instruction and hands-on training.
During their time in the program, Class 25 students had the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications that they will carry with them as they transition out of the military.
These certifications will help VIP graduates differentiate themselves from other apprentices on jobsites.
UA VIP graduates will enter their apprenticeship programs with a solid understanding of the proper installation, maintenance and repair of various piping systems.
The UA VIP program offers 118 days of training to prepare transitioning service members for civilian careers in welding, HVACR or fire suppression at seven military bases:
- Camp Pendleton (welding)
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (welding and HVACR)
- Fort Carson (welding)
- Fort Cavazos (welding)
- Camp Lejeune (welding)
- Fort Campbell (welding and fire suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVACR)
Your future with the UA
After Class 25 students graduate from the UA VIP program and transition out of the military, they will join a UA-registered apprenticeship program and begin working for a UA signatory contractor.
While working as apprentices, VIP graduates will be paid a livable wage and qualify for full-family medical and retirement benefits, including a pension and a 401(k).
As apprentices, Class 25 graduates will continue to learn and improve their technical skills and industry knowledge through classroom instruction and on-the-job training.
After five years, apprentices will become journeymen, opening up even more opportunities for career advancement.
To learn more about the program, visit the UA VIP website today.
Comments