Fort Hood Welding Class 30 celebrates graduation from UA VIP program

The United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program celebrated the graduation of Fort Hood Welding Class 30 on Oct. 9.

The UA VIP program is a DOD SkillBridge initiative, designed to help 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 Chris Slaughter and Anthony Vasquez taught Class 30 students the basics of welding through classroom instruction and hands-on training.

During their time in the program, Class 30 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 on-base training to prepare transitioning service members for civilian careers in welding, HVACR or fire suppression at the following 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) 

Active-duty service members who are interested in applying for the UA VIP program do not need to be stationed at one of the installations listed above in order to apply. 

Start your future with the UA 

After Class 30 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 30 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.

Apply for the UA VIP program today and take the first steps toward a rewarding civilian career.