The United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) students in Joint Base Lewis-McChord Welding Class 33 are officially halfway through their accelerated training.
By enrolling in the UA VIP program, these transitioning active-duty service members ensure a seamless transition into a successful civilian career in the pipe trades, with job placement secured after their military service ends. 
The UA VIP program, offered through the DOD SkillBridge initiative, is specifically designed to support transitioning active-duty service members by providing on-base training during their last six months of military commitment.
At this point in their training, Class 33 students have begun the process of selecting the UA Local Union where they will begin their DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program after they transition out of the military.
Army Staff Sgt. Jeremy Gray joined the program because he always wanted to learn how to weld and knew he would graduate with direct entry into a union.
“Having an instructor experienced in the trade helps each individual student gain more valuable insight,” Gray said. “I’ve definitely benefited.”
Gray said the UA VIP program was exactly what he was looking for, so it stood out from the other SkillBridge programs.
Gray will begin his apprenticeship program with UA Local 26 in western Washington.
More about Welding Class 33
After Class 33 students graduate and transition out of the military, they will be placed at an agreed-upon location where they will complete a five-year apprenticeship.
All UA apprentices earn good union wages as they expand their knowledge of the trade.
After graduates complete their five-year apprenticeship, they will become journeymen, paving the way for excellent career opportunities and potential for further advancement.
The UA VIP program offers accelerated training in welding, HVACR or fire suppression at the following military bases:
- Camp Pendleton (welding)
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (welding and HVACR)
- Fort Carson (welding)
- Fort Cavazos (welding)
- Camp Lejeune (welding)
- Fort Campbell (welding and fire suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVACR)
If you or someone you know is a transitioning active-duty service member in your last six months of service and seeking guaranteed job security, apply for the UA VIP program today.
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