Navy Veteran Luis Diaz joined the Veterans in Piping program (VIP) in 2022 to prepare for a new civilian career as an HVAC-R technician after he transitioned out of the military.
The former sergeant started his VIP training at Naval Station Norfolk and is now a second-year apprentice at UA Local 421 in North Carolina. He credits the VIP program for his easy transition to a pipe trades career.
“All the effort that was put into teaching us helped me stand out during my interviews. That led to me starting as a second year and I was hired with pay above scale,” Diaz said. “It also helped me to stand out above the other apprentices, and I got another raise in less than a year. I’m still a second-year, but I’m getting paid above the 4th-year scale and I really attribute that to my instructor and the program.”
Diaz feels the VIP program prepared him for the jobs he has encountered so far. Since starting his
apprenticeship, he has worked on mini and multi-split systems, package units, chillers, pumps, cooling towers, WSHPs, VAVs, PIUs, AHUs, ERVs, supply fans, exhaust fans, stairwell pressurization fans, smoke exhaust fans and VFDs.
When comparing his post-military options, the VIP program stood out to Diaz because of the opportunities that came along with it.
“A lot of programs offered to train service members but did not guarantee employment. The VIP program was the only one that really had job security,” he said. “There was also so much information available compared to the other programs. It let me know exactly what I was signing up for so I was confident in my decision.”
Diaz recommends the VIP program to anyone who is looking to transition from the military to civilian life.
“If you are thinking about this program already you should just do it. Don’t miss out on this opportunity. There are a lot of similarities in how the UA operates and it will be a smooth transition out of the military,” he said.
UA VIP program information
The UA VIP program is a DOD Skillbridge Program for transitioning active-duty service members. The program guarantees job placement at an agreed-upon location nationwide and direct entry into a UA 5-year apprenticeship program.
Participants can be trained in welding, HVACR, or fire suppression at one of seven military installations.
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord
- Camp Pendleton
- Fort Carson
- Fort Cavazos
- Camp Lejeune
- Fort Campbell
- Naval Station Norfolk
Active duty military service members preparing to transition out of the service are encouraged to apply for the VIP program.
The VIP program will allow students to earn good union wages while they continue to train and will quickly qualify for quality health insurance for not only themselves but also their families. If you or someone you know is interested, please contact us today.
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