Marine Cpl. Lou Barajas began his new career as a sprinkler fitter after he transitioned out of the military in 2020.
Preparing for that new career began when Barajas enrolled in the UA VIP program, where he was a student in Fort Campbell Fire Suppression Class 2. 
The UA VIP program is a DOD SkillBridge program that equips military members preparing to leave the service with valuable skills for a fulfilling civilian career in the pipe trades.
Barajas is now a journeyman with UA Local 669. He lives near Seattle where he’s worked on projects at schools, the Air Force Academy, stadiums and hotels.
Barajas said his UA VIP training helped him feel prepared for every job he has worked on so far.
When Barajas arrived in Seattle, he began working immediately.
The UA VIP program also helped make the transition from the military as stress-free as possible, he said.
“The VIP program taught me the basics of fire sprinkler work, and it helped get my feet wet before I started working,” Barajas said. “It helped make my transition from the military easy and smooth.”
Several SkillBridge programs are available for transitioning active-duty service members, but the UA VIP program stuck out the most to Barajas.
“The VIP program is free, and it allowed me to get paid to train while still being active duty,” Barajas said.
Barajas recommends the UA VIP program to anyone preparing to transition from the military to civilian life. 
“Do it,” he said. “It is so worth it. VIP gives you a career you can count on and the benefits are amazing. It will provide for you and your family.”
Barajas said he loves going to work every day because he has a rewarding job.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without this program,” Barajas said.
Apply for the UA VIP program
UA VIP graduates are guaranteed job placement and entrance into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program after graduating and transitioning out of the military.
Upon completing their apprenticeship training, VIP graduates become journeymen, opening up further career advancement opportunities.
UA VIP offers nine programs held at seven military installations throughout the country. The program offers accelerated training in welding, HVACR or fire suppression.
- Camp Pendleton (Welding)
- Joint Base Lewis McChord (Welding and HVACR)
- Fort Carson (Welding)
- Fort Cavazos (Welding)
- Camp Lejeune (Welding)
- Fort Campbell (Welding and Fire Suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVACR)
Individuals interested in the UA VIP program do not need to be stationed at one of the bases above in order to apply.
All active duty service members preparing to transition are encouraged to apply on the website.
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