Thanks to the United Association (UA) Veterans In Piping (VIP) program, Army Sgt. Christopher Mckaig is ready to begin a civilian career in the pipe trades.
Sgt. Mckaig graduated from the UA VIP Joint Base Lewis-McChord Welding Program, Class 27, in April.
Over 18 weeks, Mckaig and the other Class 27 graduates were exposed to a variety of pipe trade-oriented skills by experienced journeyman instructors.
Mckaig was surprised by his experience in the UA VIP program and has a new respect for his soon-to-be UA Brothers and Sisters.
“This has been a very interesting and humbling experience for me,” Mckaig said, “I have a new admiration and understanding for the men and women who choose these professions. Smart, dedicated, skilled and proud of their organizations. All winning traits.”
The UA VIP program is a DOD Skillbridge Program dedicated to helping transitioning active duty service members find a civilian career in their last six months of service. Training takes place at select military bases across the country and is available in welding, HVACR and fire suppression.
During the program, Mckaig earned industry-recognized certifications in OSHA, EPA 608, Low GWP/A2L and UA 51, along with other pipe trades skills.
“Welding is working with your hands. And it’s gritty, tough work. I enjoy these aspects of the job. Not to mention, the types of people these jobs attract are my kind of people,” Mckaig said.
The UA VIP program helps transitioning active-duty service members find their place back in civilian life after their military service commitment.
“I was amazed and thankful to see how far they were willing to help us all be successful. The instructors were genuine, and that was very refreshing to me,” Mckaig said.
He strongly recommends those who are transitioning active-duty service members to apply to the UA VIP program.
An easy transition to good-paying union careers
Congress approved the UA VIP program to help address a growing shortage of skilled workers in the construction industry.
Graduates from the UA VIP program gain direct entry into solid private-sector jobs with good pay and benefits. The specialty skills students will learn from the program have been guaranteed to give them a leg up.
After graduating from the program and fulfilling their duties in the military, graduates join an agreed upon UA Local union and enter a UA registered apprenticeship program, where they earn good pay, full health insurance and 401K benefits.
“This is a win-win scenario for both employees and employers,” Mkaig said.
The UA VIP program is a gateway to a rewarding civilian career. Click here to start your future in the pipe trades.
Comments