The United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program is spotlighting Air Force Senior Airman Alexander Fouts from Joint Base Lewis-McChord’s Welding Class 35 for the focus, discipline and steady work ethic he has demonstrated during the first half of his training.
According to JBLM Welding Instructors Jeremy Rood and Kevin Dolan, Fouts has been an exceptional student from the start of the SkillBridge program. They described him as a highly motivated learner who gives full effort in every task, asks thoughtful questions and applies feedback to strengthen his skills. This mindset has helped him build a strong reputation in both the classroom and the welding booth.
During week seven of the program, Fouts surpassed an important milestone when he earned his UA 100 welding certification. The achievement reflects his attention to detail, understanding of welding methodology and commitment to doing the job right. He is now preparing for the UA 21 certification.
Both Rood and Dolan said Fouts brings a positive attitude to the class and he takes pride in his work. They also called him dependable, respectful and supportive of his fellow students. These qualities matter not only in the VIP program, but in the civilian world when he is on a jobsite working for a UA signatory contractor.
In recognition of his effort and accomplishments, Rood and Dolan presented Fouts with DeWalt tools and a DeWalt tool bag.
With his determination and continued progress, Fouts is well-positioned for success. His instructors believe he will be a strong addition to UA Local 598 in Washington State and a valuable asset to his future employer.
UA VIP is a DOW SkillBridge program designed to help transitioning active-duty military service members in their last six months of service prepare for a civilian career in the pipe trades.
Through a 118-day, 720-hour curriculum, UA VIP students learn in-demand pipe trades skills in one of three crafts (welding, sprinkler fitting and HVACR) and industry-leading certifications. After they transition out of the military, VIP graduates are well-prepared to enter the United Association’s five-year DOL-registered Apprenticeship Program, where they will build a career without taking on student debt.
After a service member completes the program and transitions out of the military, they will return to civilian life as a member of a United Association Local Union at an agreed-upon location, where they are guaranteed work with a UA signatory contractor.
As a UA apprentice, they will earn good wages, receive full-family health insurance and receive an excellent retirement package, including a pension and a 401(k).
UA VIP is a free program located at seven military installations across the U.S. and does not require the use of a service member’s G.I. Bill benefits.
Fouts’ progress in Joint Base Lewis-McChord Welding Class 35 is a strong example of what the UA VIP program is built to deliver: disciplined training, industry-recognized certifications and a direct pathway into a United Association Registered Apprenticeship Program and long-term career in the union piping industry.
As Welding Class 35 continues through the second half of its pre-apprenticeship training, students will continue to build hands-on welding skills, including the potential to earn additional UA certifications, while preparing to transition from military service to the civilian workforce.
To learn more about the United Association Veterans in Piping program at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, visit uavip.org/apply.