On Sept. 5, students in Camp Pendleton Welding Class 43 graduated from the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program.
These graduates will begin their civilian careers in the pipe trades once they transition out of the military in the upcoming months.
The Class 43 graduates are guaranteed work with a signatory contractor and direct entry into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program at an agreed-upon location.
Class 43 graduates will travel to different UA Local Unions in California, Florida, Connecticut, Michigan, Pennsylvania and North Carolina for their apprenticeships.
Over the past 118 days, the Welding Class 43 students learned the basic welding skills necessary to start a successful career in the union pipe trades.
Journeymen Instructors Jason Culkin and David Ramirez taught Class 43 students through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training.
During their time in the program, Class 43 students had the opportunity to learn oxy-fuel cutting and master both SMAW and GTAW welding techniques on plate and pipe. As part of their hands-on training, they completed a pipe spool project, allowing them to apply their skills to real-world scenarios and learn the fundamentals of pipe fitting.
Additionally, they had the opportunity to earn certifications in SMAW and GTAW pipe welding, which they can take with them when they transition out of the military.
The UA VIP program offers free on-base training to help transitioning service members prepare for a civilian career in welding, HVACR or fire suppression.
The UA VIP program is offered at the following military installations:
- Camp Pendleton
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord
- Fort Carson
- Fort Cavazos
- Camp Lejeune
- Fort Campbell
- Naval Station Norfolk
A rewarding post-UA VIP life
The UA VIP program prepares military members with the skills necessary to start a fulfilling civilian career in the pipe trades.
When Welding Class 43 graduates begin their apprenticeship programs, they will already know how to perform proper installation, maintenance and repair of various piping systems.
While working as apprentices, VIP graduates will earn a livable wage and qualify for full-family medical benefits and retirement benefits, including a pension and a 401K.
After five years, apprentices will become journeymen, opening up even more opportunities for career advancement.
If you or someone you know is a transitioning active-duty service member in the last six months of military commitment, consider applying for the UA VIP program today!
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