Pentagon data reveals that more than 1.6 million military personnel have been deployed to the Middle East since the war in Afghanistan began in late 2001.
Yet according to Major General (Ret.) Matt Caufield, the unemployment rate of returning veterans, ages 22-24, has reached as high as three times that of non-veterans in the same age group.
The United Association of Plumbers, Pipefitters and Sprinklerfitters (UA) has partnered with the U.S. military to create the UA Veterans In Piping (VIP) Program, which provides returning vets with 16 weeks of accelerated welding training. But before that career training begins, they kick off the program with an 
additional two weeks of transitional training to help returning veterans to adjust to civilian life – a process that can be especially difficult for those who joined the military right after high school.
The training is free to veterans who are placed in construction careers nationwide, helping to replenish an aging workforce while rebuilding America’s infrastructure. Welders are in high demand nationwide, making job opportunities plentiful for welders who are well-trained and highly-skilled after their intensive training program.
With over 1,000 veterans already on the job, the next big phase of the program is now underway at Camp Pendleton, CA training active duty veterans.
Many more veterans are in need of the career opportunities available through the UA VIP Program. The UA and the U.S. Military can provide a positive re-entry into civilian life, and long-term, lucrative careers for those who have served their country with bravery and honor.
As UA General President William P. Hite says, "It's the right thing to do."
