The United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) celebrated the graduation of Fort Cavazos Welding Class 26 on April 25.
UA VIP graduates are guaranteed direct entry into a DOL-registered apprenticeship program with the UA at an agreed-upon location after they transition out of the military.
UA VIP welding instructor Christopher Slaughter taught Class 26 students the basic welding skills needed to be successful in the UA’s apprenticeship program through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training
“Class 26 had a lot of great students,” Slaughter said. “They were really receptive to the things we taught them.”
During their time in the program, students had the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications in Oxy-Fuel Cutting, SMAW Plate Welding, SMAW Pipe Welding, SMAW Pipe Spool and GRAW Pipe Welding.
“The students worked very hard to get themselves prepared for their future careers in welding and pipefitting,” Slaughter said.
Going into their apprenticeship programs, students will know the basics to perform proper installation, maintenance and repair of various piping systems.
The UA VIP program offers 118 days of training to help transitioning service members prepare for a civilian career in welding, HVAC-R or fire suppression at seven select bases across the country:
- Camp Pendleton (welding)
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (welding and HVAC-R)
- Fort Carson (welding)
- Fort Cavazos (welding)
- Camp Lejeune (welding)
- Fort Campbell (welding and fire suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVAC-R)
UA VIP offers guaranteed job placement
After transitioning out of the military, UA VIP graduates will be placed into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program with a guaranteed job.
The UA offers extensive opportunities to advance your career. After graduates complete their apprenticeship, they will become journeymen, paving the way for excellent career opportunities and substantial potential for further advancement.
While apprentices train to become journeyman welders, they will earn quality union wages as they continue to expand their knowledge of the trade.
In the pipe trades, journeymen have the opportunity to progress into roles such as foremen, superintendents, instructors, UA signatory contractors, business owners and more.
All transitioning active-duty service members are encouraged to apply for the UA VIP program.
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