The United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program is proud to welcome another cohort of transitioning service members.
Joint Base Lewis-McChord Welding Class 33 brings together a group of dedicated individuals ready to embark on their journey toward a rewarding career in the pipe trades. 
The UA VIP program is a DOD SkillBridge initiative designed to help active-duty service members smoothly transition into a successful civilian career.
Journeyman welding instructor Jeremy Rood will teach Class 33 students the fundamentals of welding through hands-on training and classroom instruction.
Army Staff Sgt. Enrique Sanchez was attracted to the UA VIP program because it allows him to learn a skilled trade and join a union.
“During the UA VIP program, my goal is to absorb as much information as possible in preparation for becoming a reliable apprentice,” Sanchez said. “When I begin my apprenticeship, my goals are to contribute to the UA and have a successful career that I can be proud of.”
Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Daniel Ixtepan had prior experience welding and was interested in joining the UA VIP program after learning VIP students graduate with guaranteed job placement.
“The way the introductory video portrayed the work environment of the program and its advantages caught my attention, as well as the five-year apprenticeship that I would be enrolled in after my service,” Ixtepan said.
Over the next 118 days, Class 33 students will have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications that they can carry with them to their UA apprenticeships.
The UA VIP program is available at the following seven military bases:
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (welding and HVACR)
- Camp Pendleton (welding)
- Fort Carson (welding)
- Fort Cavazos (welding)
- Camp Lejeune (welding)
- Fort Campbell (welding and fire suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVACR)
Learn more about UA VIP
The UA VIP program is more than just a training initiative; it’s a pathway to a stable and fulfilling civilian career.
After Class 33 students graduate and transition out of the military, they can begin their DOL-registered UA apprenticeship at an agreed-upon location anywhere in the country.
While working as apprentices, Class 33 graduates will earn good union wages as well as full-family healthcare and retirement benefits.
As apprentices grow their knowledge of the trade, they will earn regular wage increases.
To learn more about the benefits of joining the UA VIP program, visit the UA VIP website today.
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