JBLM HVACR Class 33 reaches halfway point of UA VIP training

The students in Joint Base Lewis-McChord HVACR Class 33 have officially reached the halfway point of their advanced UA VIP training.

The United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program is a DOD SkillBridge program created to help active-duty service members as they transition out of the military and into a civilian lifestyle.

UA VIP graduates are guaranteed a job with a UA signatory contractor at an agreed-upon location after they transition out of the military.

Army Sgt. Jamal Horsley has adjusted well to being in a classroom and said the class is paced well.

“VIP has been great,” Horsley said. “The instructor has shared a lot of information for future knowledge after military transition.”

Horsley recommends the UA VIP program to any transitioning active-duty service member.

“If you’re looking into being in a trade that teaches you your job before getting out, go check out UA VIP,” he said. “It’s definitely a great setup before exiting the military.”

Horsley will stay in Washington to begin his apprenticeship with UA Local 32.

Army Spc. Trey Bettincourt has had an easy time adjusting thanks to his instructor.

“The VIP program itself is amazing,” he said. “I love what it stands for and the opportunities it provides for military people who are transitioning.”

Bettincourt decided to join UA VIP after a family member recommended it to him because he always wanted to join the UA and VIP gives him a direct pathway in.

After he graduates and transitions out of the military, Bettincourt will relocate to Missouri to begin his apprenticeship with UA Local 533.

Other Class 33 students will travel to various parts of Colorado, Nevada, Virginia, California and Georgia to begin their apprenticeships.

Start a rewarding civilian career

UA VIP prepares students with the skills necessary to succeed in a civilian pipe trades career.

UA VIP graduates are guaranteed direct entry into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program and job placement with a UA signatory contractor.

After transitioning out of the military, VIP students are placed with a UA Local Union at an agreed-upon location nationwide. After they relocate, they will begin the UA’s five-year apprenticeship program.

While working as apprentices, VIP graduates will earn good union wages and quickly qualify for comprehensive healthcare benefits for themselves and their families.

Any interested transitioning active-duty service members looking for a rewarding civilian career are encouraged to apply for the UA VIP program.