On Aug. 14, students in Fort Campbell Welding Class 26 graduated from the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program.
Once they transition out of the military in the coming months, these graduates will begin their civilian careers in the pipe trades.
The UA VIP program is a DOD SkillBridge initiative, designed to help active-duty service members smoothly transition out of the military and into the civilian workforce.
Class 26 graduates are guaranteed work with a signatory contractor and direct entry into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program at an agreed-upon location.
Over the past 118 days, Class 26 students learned the basic welding skills necessary to start a successful career in the union pipe trades.
During their time in the program, Class 26 students had the opportunity to learn oxy-fuel cutting and master both SMAW and GTAW welding techniques on plate and pipe.
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.
Class 26 graduates will relocate to UA Local Unions in Tennessee, Alabama, Idaho, Missouri, Georgia, Virginia, Louisiana, Illinois and Wyoming for their apprenticeships.
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 is offered at the following military bases:
- Camp Pendleton (welding)
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (welding and HVACR)
- Fort Carson (welding)
- Fort Hood (welding)
- Camp Lejeune (welding)
- Fort Campbell (welding and fire suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVACR)
A rewarding civilian career
The UA VIP program prepares military members with the skills necessary to start a fulfilling civilian career in the pipe trades.
When Class 26 graduates begin their apprenticeship programs, they will already know the basics of how to perform proper installation, maintenance and repair of various piping systems.
While working as apprentices, UA 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.
All transitioning active-duty service members in their last six months of military commitment are encouraged to apply for the UA VIP program.
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