UA VIP grad says program helped him begin a successful career

After transitioning out of the military in 2013, Army Sgt. Connor Higgins began an exciting new chapter as an HVACR technician, launching his civilian career in the skilled trades. 

Before leaving the service, Higgins enrolled in the UA VIP program as a member of Joint Base Lewis-McChord HVACR Class 1, where he learned the basics of installing and maintaining heating, cooling and refrigeration systems.

UA VIP is a DOD SkillBridge program that offers transitioning military members the opportunity to learn new skills that lead to rewarding civilian careers in the pipe trades. 

After graduating from the UA VIP program, Higgins relocated to Boston to begin his apprenticeship with UA Local 537, where he is now a journeyman.

Higgins said he is grateful for the UA VIP program because it gave him the skills and knowledge to transition into a successful career. 

“Transitioning out of the military was a difficult experience for me, but the VIP program made the transition from the military into a career with the UA seamless,” he said.

Despite several Career Skills and SkillBridge programs available to transitioning service members, the UA VIP program stood out the most to Higgins because of its opportunities and benefits. 

“The UA gives you the skills to enter a new career field even if you have no experience in it,” Higgins said. “They teach you and help place you so you can get to work right away. Starting work right after the military saved me a lot of time, stress and money.” 

Higgins said he felt well-rounded after graduating from the program and has not felt unprepared while working, thanks to the skills he learned from his UA VIP instructors.

Since transitioning over 10 years ago, Higgins has worked on many projects, including steam, hot water, chilled water, refrigeration, big jobs, small jobs, airports, housing projects and more. 

“The VIP program was the first step in a career that has given me everything I have today,” Higgens said. “I’m forever grateful and indebted to the program, the people who run and advocate for the VIP program and the friends I’ve made through it.” 

Join the UA VIP program today 

After graduating from the UA VIP program and transitioning out of the military, UA VIP graduates will be placed with a UA Local Union at an agreed-upon location to begin their five-year apprenticeship with guaranteed job placement.

During their apprenticeship, UA VIP graduates will earn good union wages and quality health insurance, including a pension and a 401K. 

After completing their apprenticeships, UA VIP graduates will achieve journeymen status, opening doors for more career advancement opportunities. 

The UA VIP program offers 118 days of accelerated training in welding, HVACR or fire suppression at seven military installations across the country. 

Active-duty service members considering transitioning out of the military are encouraged to visit the UA VIP website to learn more.