The United Association Veterans in Piping Program graduated nine members from its recent Fort Hood Welding Class 9.
Once discharged from active military service, the soon-to-be veterans will all have jobs waiting for them with a UA contractor in an agreed upon geographical area. In addition to jobs, VIP graduates also enter a UA apprenticeship program, where they undergo additional training in the pipe trades on their way to becoming journeymen.
On Sept. 21, the recent Fort Hood graduates showed off their welding skills to those who attended an open house. Attendees saw first-hand how the graduates learned to weld throughout the 18-week accelerated training course.
UA VIP Administrator Mike Hazard was among those in attendance and spoke on behalf of the program, congratulating the recent graduates on their hard work, dedication and motivation throughout the course. He wished them luck in their future careers as UA apprentices.
“The UA is very proud of the work ethic displayed by the graduates of Fort Hood UA VIP class 9 and wishes them the best of luck as they enter into their new careers as UA apprentices,” said Hazard.
The UA VIP Program operates on eight military bases across the country. Active-duty members of the Armed Forces who are preparing to transition out of the service are eligible to participate in the free on-base career-training program.
Once accepted into the program, members go through an accelerated 18-week training course featuring classroom education and hands-on skills instruction. After graduation from the program, each individual is given the opportunity to accept an apprenticeship with an agreed upon UA Local. Upon leaving the military, the graduates will begin an UA apprenticeship and are guaranteed a job with one of their signatory contractors.
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