Class is already halfway complete for Fort Carson’s Welding Class 22.
For Army Sgt. 1st Class Sean Blackburn, it’s been an amazing experience. He always wanted a job where he could use his hands. The United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program has provided a direct path to a hands-on career that will ease his transition to civilian life after he gets out of the military.
“The instructors are awesome and have a wealth of knowledge to share,” Blackburn said. “They aren’t afraid to get dirty with the students.”
Over the course of 18 weeks, the UA VIP program teaches transitioning active-duty service members how to weld through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training. They learn alongside an experienced journeyman instructor and earn industry recognized certifications that put them ahead of their peers.
The students are learning oxy fuel cutting, SMAW plate welding, SPAW and GTAW pipe welding and SMAW pipe spooling.
The UA VIP program is a Career Skills Program (CSP) for transitioning active-duty service members.
“Running root passes proficiently is the most satisfying part of the course so far,” Blackburn said. “Once you do your first root pass without messing up, you feel a sense of accomplishment and pride that is something I haven't felt in years.”
The chance to earn good money in a union, civilian career
It was the hands-on aspect of the UA VIP program that greatly appealed to Army Sgt. Christopher Lockman.
“That’s my preferred method of learning because it’s how I best retain information,” Lockman said. “I’ve learned that welding in the pipe trades is almost an art. Yes, anyone can learn to weld. But to be a great welder, you really have to master your craft. The UA VIP program has helped steer me in the right direction.
“I love being able to weld all day long and the only thing on my mind is how to be better after burning each electrode,” he added.
After the students complete the UA VIP program and transition out of the military, they will enter a UA registered apprenticeship at an agreed upon location. They’ll earn good union pay as they train, and their pay progressively increases as they continue to expand their knowledge. The students will quickly become eligible for quality healthcare for their families. They’ll start earning a pension and a 401K for their retirement.
“I’ve always had an interest in welding and pipefitting, so for me this was an easy choice,” Lockman said. “If you’re eager to work, make good money and always have a job, the UA VIP program is something you should definitely consider taking a look at.”
Transitioning active-duty service members are eligible to enroll in the UA VIP program during their last 18 months of service commitment. Training is available in welding, HVACR and fire sprinkler fitting. It takes place during the last few months of military enrollment at select bases throughout the country.
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