An open house event held at the United Association Veterans in Piping (VIP) Program’s Fort Campbell training facility recognized the 20 transitioning active-duty military service members who graduated from the training program.
The free, 18-week career training program equipped graduates with basic welding skills and prepared them to begin a successful and rewarding career in the piping industry, once they complete their military service.
“I am very proud of these 20 soldiers who are about to become a very big asset to the UA,” said UA VIP Fort Campbell Welding Instructor Michael Smith. “They are very hard working and eager to become members of the UA, and they will take their hard working attributes to their Locals and become very successful in their careers in the UA.”
According to Smith all 20 members of the Fort Campbell Welding Class 10 displayed a great work ethic. They realized the skills that UA VIP members learn are in high demand, as there is an increased need for skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the piping industry.
During the open house event, family, friends and special guests visited the UA VIP training center and saw some of the projects graduates worked on during the class. One of the special guests was Retired Major General Andy Aadland, who spoke with the new graduates.
Each UA VIP graduate, after successfully transitioning out of the military, is guaranteed a job with a UA signatory contractor. These jobs pays a livable wage and provide UA VIP graduates them with great benefits – including health insurance and retirement benefits such as a 401k plan or a pension. These benefits help the UA VIP graduates take care of their families as they return to the civilian life, while also eliminating the stress and struggles faced by many transitioning service members.
Besides receiving a guaranteed job, graduates of the UA VIP can also enter a five-year UA apprenticeship program where they receive on-the-job training and classroom instruction to further their knowledge of the piping industry. Apprentices will receive standard wage increases as they progress.
Military service members who are beginning to prepare for their transition out of the military can apply for the UA VIP Program on seven military bases across the country.
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