A new cohort of transitioning active-duty service members started their United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) training in Fort Campbell Fire Suppression Class 17.
UA VIP is a DOD SkillBridge program designed to help active-duty service members complete the transition from the military to a civilian career in the pipe trades.
UA instructors Curtis Amos and Kyle Shrum will teach Class 17 students through a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on training.
For 118 days, Class 17 students will learn the basic skills necessary to begin a rewarding civilian career.
Despite not having any prior experience with a skilled trade, Army Sgt. Tristan Allen knew the UA VIP program was the right program for him.
“The UA VIP program stood out because it offers guaranteed job placement,” he said. “I hope to learn as much as possible during the program so I can prove myself to my future employers.”
After he graduates and joins a UA apprenticeship, Allen hopes to become a journeyman and have a positive influence on other people on jobsites.
Army Sgt. Wayne Klein learned about the UA VIP program through the CSP office and was interested when he learned that students graduate with a guaranteed job with union wages and benefits.
“While in the program, I anticipate I will learn how to install and replace sprinkler systems and more about joining a union,” Klein said.
Allen, Klein and their fellow Class 17 classmates will have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications in sprinkler hazard, boom lift, forklift, OSHA safety and more during their time in the UA VIP program.
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 Cavazos (welding)
- Camp Lejeune (welding)
- Fort Campbell (welding and fire suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVACR)
Start a rewarding civilian career
After completing the UA VIP training and transitioning out of the military, Class 17 graduates will be placed at an agreed-upon location where they will begin a five-year apprenticeship.
As apprentices continue to learn, they will earn a livable wage with comprehensive benefits. Apprentices qualify for wage increases as their skills grow.
Graduates who complete the apprenticeship program will become journeymen. Reaching journeymen status will open doors to more career opportunities such as becoming a foreman, superintendent, instructor and more.
All active-duty service members in their last six months of military commitment are encouraged to visit the UA VIP website to learn more about its opportunities.
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