Naval Station Norfolk HVACR Class 26 Graduates Ready for the Field

Members of Naval Station Norfolk HVACR Class 26 graduated in mid-January, marking the completion of their United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) training.

Over the course of the DoW SkillBridge program, journeyman instructors teach students through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training.

As part of the curriculum, the students have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications in HVAC refrigeration, UA 51 brazing and OSHA. This helps UA VIP graduates stand out from other apprentices on jobsites.

After the Class 26 graduates transition out of the military, they will begin their civilian careers as apprentice HVACR technicians. All UA VIP graduates are guaranteed a job and direct entry into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship.

A Proven Pathway: UA VIP

For more than a decade, the UA VIP Program has helped transitioning active-duty service members prepare for good-paying, in-demand civilian careers.

During the 118-day, 720-hour curriculum, students learn basic pipe trade skills in one of three crafts: HVACR, welding or fire suppression.

Once VIP participants graduate and transition out of the military, they enter the UA's five-year Registered Apprenticeship Program, where they will continue to build on their newly acquired skill set without taking on student debt.

VIP graduates are also guaranteed jobs with a UA signatory contractor in an agreed-upon geographic location. They will receive direct entry into a UA Local Union and all the benefits of being a UA member, including good wages, excellent full-family medical insurance and great retirement benefits.

The UA VIP Program operates nine programs on seven bases throughout the U.S.

Challenging, but Worth It

For HVACR Class 26 graduate and U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Ariginald Hancock, the course was demanding, but the opportunities provided were worth the effort.

“I had a great time; it was challenging at times, but well worth it. I've learned a lot and am excited to go out and start,” said Hancock.

Where The Graduates Are Going

Working with program administrators, all Naval Station Norfolk HVACR Class 26 graduates identified the UA Local Union where they will begin their apprenticeship. In the coming months, graduates will transition out of the military and move to the following areas to join these UA Local Unions:

• North Carolina/South Carolina - UA Local 421
• Seattle - UA Local 32
• Canton, Ohio - Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 94

Advice for Future VIP Students From a Graduate

When asked what advice they might offer future VIP students, Class 26 graduates emphasized preparation and follow-through in and out of the classroom.

Hancock stressed the importance of active learning:

“Ask questions and study when you can, to truly understand and retain what is being taught,” he said.

U.S. Army Senior Cargo Specialist Kashem Edmund highlighted the value of staying focused and doing extra work after hours, when necessary.

“Make sure to stay focused in class and do your research at home to get more familiarized with topics, especially if you don't fully grasp a topic,” he said.

U.S Air Force Aircraft Maintenance Technician Samuel Konda offered practical guidance that applies to every trade, classroom and jobsite.

“Be punctual, take notes, ask questions and brush up on your math,” he said.

That advice reflects what it takes to succeed in the pipe trades, including the HVACR field – consistent effort, attention to detail and the discipline to keep learning.

Congratulations, Naval Station Norfolk Class 26

Graduation is a milestone, but it is also the beginning of what comes next. The graduates from Naval Station Norfolk HVACR Class 26 have proven they can handle the pace, do the work, and stay committed to learning.

Congratulations to the Class 26 graduates. The UA family is proud of your accomplishment and looks forward to seeing you on future jobsites.

Interested in the UA VIP Program? Visit uavip.org/norfolk to learn more about HVACR training opportunities at Naval Station Norfolk for active-duty transitioning service members.

Inspired by the graduates of HVACR 26? Read about the success of Fort Campbell Welding Class 27 or Camp Lejeune Welding Class 30.