It won’t be long before Fort Campbell Sprinkler Fitter Class 11 students begin their civilian careers in the pipe trades.
The United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program is a DOD Skillbridge program dedicated to helping transitioning active-duty service members transition into civilian life after their time in the military.
Once they transition out of the military, graduates are guaranteed placement in a UA registered apprenticeship program at an agreed-upon location.
Before their 18 weeks of training, Class 11 students will learn skills introduced by experienced journeyman instructors. Instructors integrate foundational pipe trades practices through the use of classroom instruction and hands-on training.
Students obtained industry-recognized certifications in steel pipe threading, basic rigging and signal person training, copper joining, CPVC certificates, and CPR/First Aid certificates.
Upon graduation, Class 11 students will be prepared for civilian careers where they install and maintain high and low-pressure piping, equipment and devices to supply fire protection systems with water, foam, carbon dioxide and other materials in hospitals, commercial buildings, manufacturing plants and home and apartment buildings.
The start of a new civilian career
During their apprenticeship training, VIP graduates will earn good union wages while they learn and quickly qualify for quality health insurance for their families. They also start earning a pension and a 401K for their retirement. Their pay gradually increases as they progress through the apprenticeship program and expand their skill set.
Once you become a UA member the opportunities for career progression are vast. Starting as an apprentice the UA provides numerous training opportunities to grow and develop into a highly skilled journey-level worker.
Transitioning active-duty service members are welcome to apply for the UA VIP program during their last six months of service.
The UA VIP program offers career training in welding, HVACR and fire suppression, where students learn the basics of installing, inspecting, repairing and maintaining fire sprinkler systems.
There are currently nine programs operating at seven locations nationwide, serving all branches of the military. Service members stationed at neighboring installations are highly encouraged to apply for the UA VIP program nearest them.
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord offers training in welding and HVAC
- Camp Pendleton offers training in welding
- Fort Carson offers training in welding
- Fort Hood offers training in welding
- Camp Lejeune offers training in welding
- Fort Campbell offers training in welding and fire suppression
- Naval Station Norfolk offers training in HVAC
If you are interested in training in the fire protection field, click here to learn if the UA VIP program at Fort Campbell is the best option for you.
Comments