Congratulations to the students in Naval Station Norfolk HVACR Class 24 on graduating from the UA VIP program on April 24.
After the VIP graduates transition out of the military, they will begin their civilian careers as apprentice HVACR technicians.
VIP graduates are guaranteed a job and direct entry into a DOL-registered apprenticeship program with the United Association at an agreed-upon location.
Journeyman instructors teach students through both classroom instruction and hands-on training during their time in the UA VIP program.
Class 24 students had the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications in HVAC refrigeration, UA 51 brazing, OSHA and more that will help them stand out from other apprentices on jobsites.
Instructor Nastassia Leggett taught Class 24 students the basics of installing and maintaining heating, cooling and refrigeration systems in residential, commercial and industrial areas.
For 118 days, active-duty service members in their last six months of service can learn the basics of welding, HVACR or fire suppression through the UA VIP program.
The UA VIP program is available 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)
Start a career in the pipe trades
UA VIP graduates receive numerous benefits from the program, such as extensive training and guaranteed job placement through a DOL-registered apprenticeship program.
As new UA members, there are numerous opportunities for career progression. Starting as an apprentice, the UA provides classroom and on-the-job training to grow and develop apprentices into highly skilled journey-level workers.
After completing the five-year apprenticeship program, UA VIP graduates will become certified journeymen. Journeymen can continue to grow in their trade and become foremen, instructors, superintendents, project managers and more.
Transitioning active-duty service members from all service branches can apply for the UA VIP program.
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