Students in the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program graduated from Fort Carson Welding Class 27 on April 4.
These graduates will begin their civilian careers in the pipe trades once they transition out of the military in the coming months.
UA VIP graduates are guaranteed work and direct entry into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program at an agreed-upon location.
During the past 118 days, the UA VIP students learned the basic welding skills necessary to start a successful career with a UA Local Union.
Welding Class 27 students were taught by instructors Jose Ballejo and Ezra Saint-Peter. The instructors used a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training.
During their time in the UA VIP program, students had the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications in Oxy-Fuel Cutting, SMAW Plate Welding, SMAW Pipe Welding, SMAW Pipe WSpool and GRAW Pipe Welding.
The UA VIP program offers on-base training to help transitioning service members prepare for a civilian career in welding, HVAC-R or fire suppression. The UA VIP program is offered at the following seven military bases:
- Camp Pendleton
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord
- Fort Carson
- Fort Cavazos
- Camp Lejeune
- Fort Campbell
- Naval Station Norfolk
Life after graduating from the UA VIP program
The UA VIP program prepares students with the skills necessary for a rewarding, civilian pipe trades career.
Welding Class 27 graduates will begin their apprenticeship programs already knowing how to perform proper installation, maintenance and repair of various piping systems.
While working as an apprentice, VIP graduates will earn good union wages and will quickly qualify for comprehensive healthcare for themselves and their families.
After topping out, apprentices will become journeymen. Working as a journeyman can open the doors to more opportunities for career growth.
Journeymen can continue to advance in their trade by becoming a foreman, instructor, superintendent, project manager, business owner and more.
If you are getting ready to transition out of the military and are interested in the trades, apply for the UA VIP program today.
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