Fort Campbell Welding Class 26 students have reached the halfway point of their advanced training in the UA VIP program.
The UA VIP program is a DOD SkillBridge program designed to help active-duty service members smoothly transition into a rewarding civilian career in the pipe trades.
Class 26 students will spend the rest of their time in the UA VIP program learning and expanding their welding skills, led by journeymen instructors Michael Smith and Chris Johnson, through classroom instruction and hands-on training.
Army Spc. Michael Minor said his time in the UA VIP program has been a tough but rewarding process.
“So far, I have learned how to weld, welding terminology and how a union operates,” Minor said. “I joined the program to get a good job so I can provide for my family.”
The UA VIP program gives students a direct path to begin a UA apprenticeship with a Local Union in an agreed-upon location.
Minor will begin his apprenticeship with UA Local 43 Plumbers and Steamfitters in Chattanooga, Tenn.
After graduating and transitioning out of the military, some Class 26 students will stay in Tennessee to begin their apprenticeships, while others will travel to various parts of Alabama, Idaho, Missouri, Virginia, Louisiana, Illinois and Wyoming.
The UA VIP program offers accelerated training in welding, HVACR and fire suppression at the following military bases:
- 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)
Begin a UA apprenticeship
Before Class 26 students finish the program in August, they will have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications.
While working as apprentices, Class 26 graduates will receive good union wages and comprehensive healthcare benefits for themselves and their families while working for UA signatory contractors.
The UA VIP program is designed to meet the growing demand in the pipe trades for individuals who enjoy working with their hands and have strong problem-solving skills.
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