NEWS AND HAPPENINGS WITH VIP

Take a look at some of the newsworthy items for the VIP program.

UA Veterans in Piping unveils new pilot program at Fort Campbell

UA Veterans in Piping unveils new pilot program at Fort Campbell

The United Association Veterans in Piping Program (UA VIP) recently launched a new Pipe Trades pilot program at Fort Campbell.

The 18-week accelerated training class started in March with 16 students, 15 males and 1 female.

The free career-training program is designed to educate and provide hands-on experiences to participants in a variety of piping industry fields. Students will learn the basics of welding, pipefitting, sprinkler fitting, plumbing and heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC-R) through a mixture of classroom instruction and hands-on training.

Students in the P & P Program will take courses such as steam theory, drain cleaning, water supply, pipe threading and PEX piping system installation.

PILOT PROGRAM #1The P & P Program is open to active-duty transitioning military service members. Upon graduation and transition out of the military, students are guaranteed a job with a UA signatory contractor in one of over 200 locations nationwide, where they will earn livable wages and receive excellent health insurance and retirement benefits.

Army Sergeant First Class Matthew Antonelli, who is a student in P & P Program, said UA VIP has eased the burden of stress for him as he transitions out of the Army and back into civilian life.

“It has given me a peace of mind, not having to stress about having to find a job,” he said.

As former Army welder, Antonelli enjoys the welding part of the program. He is grateful for UA’s investment in helping him and his fellow active-duty transitioning military member classmates have a bright future.GREGORY HOUSTON UA COPPPER PROJECT-1

In addition to a guaranteed job, graduates will also enter a five-year UA registered apprenticeship program, where they will be able to increase their general piping industry skills and then select a craft to specialize in as they begin their careers.

Apprentices receive corresponding hourly wage increases from their employer as they progress through the apprenticeship program on their way to topping out as a journeyman.

These 16 students in the P & P pilot program are set to graduate on July 3.

To learn more about the Fort Campbell UA VIP Program, which also includes welding and sprinkler fitting, click here.

Comments