For the 11 students in the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) Program Welding Class 22 at Fort Carson, the recent start of class is more than just a new training opportunity.
It’s the first step toward a new career — a direct path to a union job in the pipe trades after they transition out of the military.
Over the course of 18 weeks, the students will learn alongside an experienced journeyman instructor through a combination of classroom work and hands-on training.
Though some of the students have never held a welding torch in their lives, they will learn more than just basic welding skills — they will earn industry recognized certifications that will put them ahead of their peers.
The United Association Veterans in Piping Program is designed to prepare active duty service members for careers in the pipe trades after they transition out of the military. Members of the military are eligible to apply during their last 18 months of service commitment.
After completing their training and transitioning out of the military, UA VIP students are guaranteed placement in a UA Registered Apprenticeship Program.
Classes are available in welding, HVAC-R and fire sprinkler fitting. Training takes place at select military bases across the country.
The start of good paying civilian careers
Once members complete the UA VIP training and transition out of the military, they join a UA union at an agreed upon location and enter a UA Registered Apprenticeship Program. They earn good union wages and are soon eligible for quality healthcare benefits for themselves and their family. UA apprentices also start earning a pension and a 401K for their retirement.
They earn steady pay raises as they progress through the program and expand their skills.
Once they complete their apprenticeships, they become journeymen and earn a substantial pay raise. After that, they have numerous pathways for career advancement. They enjoy great careers in an industry that continually sees high job demand.
Comments