Much like your time in the military, a career in the United Association (UA) can go in any direction, including opportunities to travel and even to own your own business.
It all begins though, by applying to become a member of the UA Veterans In Piping (VIP) Program.
Once a transitioning military member successfully completes the program, they will be able to join a UA Local almost anywhere in the U.S. that has a training center, to start their apprenticeship. Besides beginning their next level of training, they are also guaranteed a job with a UA signatory contractor.
As an apprentice, VIP graduates earn while they learn, which means they make livable wages and receive good health and retirement benefits, while they learn their trade. Apprentices receive on-the-job-training from journeymen on each jobsite, while mandatory classroom instruction and earning credit towards an associate’s degree.
Upon completing the apprenticeship program, apprentices become an UA journeymen.
There are more opportunities beyond a career pipefitter, plumber, fire sprinkler fitter, welder or HVACR-R service technician.
Journeymen can progress their careers to positions such as:
Foreman: Supervise the safety, quality and productivity of construction workers.
Supervisor: Supervise and coordinate the activities of journeymen, apprentices, and other construction workers.
Estimator: Estimate type and quantity of materials and labor required for construction project.
Buyer: Purchase equipment, materials and services for construction projects.
Safety Director: Evaluate and monitor health and safety hazards and develop strategies to control risks on the jobsite. They inspect construction sites to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Project Manager: Plan, schedule, organize, direct and evaluate the activities of construction projects.
Site Superintendent: Oversee the construction process and be responsible for overall construction activities within the established design, budget and schedule.
Company Owner: Responsible for all aspects of company, including employees and finances.
