Transitioning active-duty service members face a daunting question after the military: What’s next?
For the students in the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program, the answer is more clear: a career in the pipe trades.
The UA VIP students in Camp Lejeune’s Welding Class 21 have taken the first step to a civilian career. Over the next 18 weeks, the students will learn basic welding skills alongside an experienced journeyman through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience. Some have never held a welding torch before. But in the next few months, they will earn industry recognized certifications that will propel their careers after they transition out of the military.
The UA VIP program is a Career Skills Program (CSP) for military transitioning that guarantees a job in the pipe trades. Students will learn oxy fuel cutting, SMAW plate welding, SPAW and GTAW pipe welding and SMAW pipe spooling.
Transitioning active-duty service members are eligible to apply to the UA VIP program during their last 18 months of service commitment. Training is completed during the last few months of a soldier’s enlistment period and takes place at select military bases throughout the country. Training is available in welding, HVACR and fire sprinkler fitting.
Earn good union pay in a UA registered apprenticeship program
After the UA VIP students complete the program and transition out of the military, they are guaranteed placement in a UA registered apprenticeship program at an agreed upon location. They will earn good union pay as they train, including pay raises as they progress through the program. They will quickly become eligible for quality healthcare for their families and begin earning a pension and a 401K for retirement.
Once the students complete their apprenticeship, they become journeymen in a field that continues to see a high demand for jobs. They have numerous opportunities to expand their careers. Some will continue to work for signatory contractors. Others will start their own business. Some will become certified instructors in the UA VIP program. Others will become a job foreman, superintendent or a project manager.
The students took their first step toward a good paying career by enrolling in the UA VIP program. Class has only just begun, but the students’ future looks bright.
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