Members of the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program Fort Carson Welding Class 25 recently hit the midway point of their 18-week training as they prepare for civilian careers in the pipe trades.
The UA VIP program is a DOD Skillbridge Program designed to smoothly transition active-duty service members into civilian careers by providing on-base training during their last six months of military commitment.
Fort Carson Welding Class 25 students are learning basic welding skills and have already obtained some industry-recognized certifications.
The UA VIP program guarantees job placement to graduates at an agreed-upon location after they transition out of the military.
For Army Spc Daniel Mangula, the opportunity to gain direct entry into a registered apprenticeship program was appealing, knowing that he will then improve upon the skillset he is learning through UA VIP.
Mangula plans to join Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 58 in Colorado Springs, Colo., which is located near his hometown.
Upon completing the program, Mangula and his fellow Fort Carson Welding Class 25 students will move into the five-year U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) registered UA apprenticeship program, where they will continue to learn the advanced aspects of welding alongside journeyman instructors.
Through on-the-job training and classroom instruction, these future apprentices will earn good-paying hourly wages and quality healthcare benefits while they continue to advance in their careers.
Like Mangula, Army Sgt Adrian Arthurs plans to relocate to his hometown. Arthurs will move to Boston and become a member of Pipefitters Local 537.
All Fort Carson Class 25 students will finish the remainder of their UA VIP training knowing they will begin a fruitful civilian career in the pipe trades as soon as their military commitment is complete.
Why the UA wants to help military members
The UA VIP program was established in 2008 to address two significant issues in our country: veteran unemployment and a growing shortage in the construction industry. The UA VIP program has worked hard to create a high-quality training course to provide trade career opportunities to active-duty service members.
The UA VIP program believes service members have the skill set and discipline to succeed in the piping industry. Those who have sacrificed for our country should receive the support they deserve when transitioning to civilian life.
UA VIP Training is available at seven military bases with nine different programs.
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (HVAC and welding)
- Camp Pendleton (welding)
- Fort Carson (welding)
- Fort Cavazos (welding)
- Camp Lejeune (welding)
- Fort Campbell (welding and fire suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVAC)
The UA VIP Program is open to all active-duty military members in their 180-day transition window.
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