The United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program welcomes another class of transitioning active-duty service members who are preparing for a rewarding civilian career in the pipe trades.
On Feb. 20, UA VIP Welding Class 30 started at Joint Base Lewis-McChord.
Over the next 118 days, Class 30 students will learn the basics for a future career in the welding industry. This includes having the opportunity to earn industry-recognized welding certifications that will propel their careers when they begin their UA apprenticeship.
Students will have the opportunity to receive certifications in oxy-fuel cutting, SMAW plate welding, SPAW and GTAW pipe welding and SMAW pipe spooling. They will learn how to read blueprints accurately and measure, cut and weld pieces of material.
UA VIP is a DOD SkillBridge program designed to help active duty service members transition from the military to a new civilian career.
The UA VIP program is provided free of charge. It offers graduates direct entry into a UA VIP apprenticeship program and guaranteed job placement after they transition out of the military.
UA VIP recognizes that men and women with military training bring valuable skills and experiences into the piping industry that UA signatory contractors highly value.
Since its creation in 2008, the UA VIP program has tried to confront two major issues: veteran unemployment and the growing shortage of trained construction workers.
The training course created has provided thousands of career opportunities to active-duty service members who have decided to return to civilian life.
Transitioning active-duty service members are invited to apply for the UA VIP program during their last six months of military commitment. The UA VIP program offers training in welding, HVAC-R and fire suppression at the following military bases:
- Camp Pendleton (welding)
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (welding and HVAC-R)
- Fort Carson (welding)
- Fort Cavazos (welding)
- Camp Lejeune (welding)
- Fort Campbell (welding and fire suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVAC-R)
What the UA can offer you
After graduating and transitioning out of the military, UA VIP students are placed into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program and a guaranteed job with a UA signatory contractor.
While apprentices train to become journeyman welders, they will receive good wages and comprehensive healthcare. As apprentices expand their knowledge and skills of the trade, they will receive wage increases commiserate with their expanded skillset.
The UA offers its members extensive possibilities to advance their careers. After apprentices top out, they will have even more opportunities for career advancement as journeyman welders.
If you are an active-duty military member in your last six months of service, consider applying for the UA VIP program today.
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