VIP graduate encourages other transitioning service members to consider UA VIP program

David McRill was a Marine Staff Sergeant when he joined the UA VIP program in 2023 to acquire the skills necessary for a successful civilian career in the pipe trades. 

McRill enrolled in Camp Lejeune Welding Class 23, where he learned the fundamentals of welding through both classroom and hands-on instruction.

UA VIP is a DOD SkillBridge program designed to help active-duty service members smoothly transition out of the military and into a civilian career in the pipe trades. 

UA VIP students in welding classes have the opportunity to earn certifications in oxy-fuel cutting, SMAW and GRAW plate welding and more. These certifications provide graduates with a competitive advantage as they begin their civilian careers.

“The VIP program provided me the skills and basic knowledge of a functional career path and the opportunity to be employed right after leaving active service,” McRill said. “That is something that, unfortunately, is not easy when leaving active military service.”

McRill is now in the second year of his apprenticeship with UA Local 44 in Spokane, Wash., where he has worked on numerous industrial systems requiring welded pipe, threaded pipe and plastic-glued pipe, as well as some industrial commercial projects.

McRill said he has been prepared for every job so far.  

“There hasn’t been a single process I have encountered thus far that I didn’t have some knowledge of due to the VIP program,” he said. “While there are things I haven’t had in-depth knowledge of, there was always at least a base.” 

There were several SkillBridge programs that McRill could have applied for, but for him, the UA VIP program stood out the most. 

“VIP was the only program that provided a serious and demanding training curriculum that was focused on giving you the skills required and the basic knowledge to perform the job,” McRill said. “Once you completed the training, you could perform well above many of your peers and even better than some of the journeymen out there.” 

McRill strongly encourages all active-duty transitioning service members to apply for the UA VIP program. 

“This is absolutely the most valuable program that is offered to transitioning service members,” McRill said. “Not only will you be taught and provided the tools and consumables to grow your skills, you will be provided a real job opportunity to continue your development for a truly fruitful and enjoyable career.” 

McRill added that not only is the program great, but so are the instructors, who put in so much effort to ensure students build real skills. 

“Greg Abrams and Rachel Lablance were fantastic at what they did and continue to do as instructors,” he said. “They are great people with real drive and a true compassion for what they do.”

Work a civilian career in the pipe trades 

Students who graduate from the UA VIP program will be placed at a UA Local Union at an agreed-upon location to complete their five-year apprenticeship. 

During their apprenticeship, VIP graduates earn good wages and will quickly qualify for health insurance not only for themselves but also for their families.

After successfully completing their apprenticeship program, VIP graduates will achieve the status of journeymen, opening up more opportunities for career advancement. 

For 118 days, UA VIP students undergo accelerated training in welding, HVACR or fire suppression. 

If you are interested in learning more about the UA VIP program, visit our website for more information.