The students in Naval Station Norfolk HVAC-R Class 21 graduated from the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program on March 21.
During their time in the UA VIP program, students learned the necessary skills to begin a successful civilian career in the heating and cooling service industry, after they transition out of the military.
The UA VIP program is a DOD SkillBridge program that was created to help active-duty military members in the last six months of service prepare for a civilian career.
The students were taught by experienced UA journeymen in both the classroom and by performing hands-on training. During their time in class, students learned how to install and maintain heating, cooling and refrigeration systems in residential, commercial and industrial areas.
While in class, students had the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications in HVAC refrigeration, UA 51 brazing, EPA 608, OSHA and more. Graduates will have more opportunities to earn certifications when they begin their apprenticeships.
Class 21 students were taught by UA VIP instructor James Kinney, who is excited to see his class graduate and begin their new civilian careers.
The UA VIP program offers accelerated training in welding, HVAC-R and fire suppression and guarantees a job with a UA signatory contractor. Below are the seven military bases with the programs offered:
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (Welding and HVAC-R)
- Camp Pendleton (Welding)
- Fort Carson (Welding)
- Fort Cavazos (Welding)
- Camp Lejeune (Welding)
- Fort Campbell (Welding and Fire Suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVAC-R)
A rewarding career in the pipe trades
After graduating from the UA VIP program and transitioning out of the military, graduates will begin a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship at an agreed-upon location where they will continue to learn and earn more certifications alongside journeymen instructors.
Apprentices earn good wages while they continue to master their trade while in the classroom and on the jobsite. Students will qualify for quality health insurance and start contributing to a pension and a 401K for their retirement.
As apprentices continue the program and learn more skills, their pay will gradually increase.
If you, or someone you know, is a transitioning active-duty service member, please consider applying for the UA VIP program during your last six months of service for a rewarding, life-long civilian career.
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