On Dec. 9, the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program welcomed another class of transitioning active-duty service members to begin training for a civilian career in the pipe trades.
Journeymen instructors Michael Smith and Chris Johnson will teach the students in Fort Campbell Welding Class 25 through hands-on training and classroom instruction.
UA VIP is a DOD SkillBridge program created to help active-duty service members smoothly transition out of the military and into civilian life.
Army Spc. James Berte has no prior welding experience but after learning about the UA VIP program at a CSP Brief, he knew it was the program for him.
“I wanted to learn a trade and I know somebody in every trade except for welding,” Berte said.
Berte is hopeful he will learn the basic skills needed for a successful civilian career in welding.
“I want to learn as much as possible,” he said. “I want to be the apprentice that people want to work with.”
Army Spc. Nick Arnwine has some background knowledge in welding from taking a welding class in high school and is eager to continue learning.
“I anticipate I will learn new skills and improve old skills, whether it’s welding or pipe fitting oriented,” Arnwine said.
Arnwine was attracted to the UA VIP program because of the guaranteed job placement.
The UA VIP program offers 118 days of training in welding, HVACR and fire suppression at the following military bases:
- Camp Pendleton (welding)
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (welding and HVACR)
- Fort Carson (welding)
- Fort Cavazos (welding)
- Camp Lejeune (welding)
- Fort Campbell (welding and fire suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVACR)
Start a new career with UA VIP
After graduating from the UA VIP program and transitioning out of the military, students will be placed into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program at an agreed-upon location with guaranteed job placement.
While working as apprentices, VIP graduates will earn a livable wage and receive comprehensive benefits such as healthcare and retirement benefits.
As apprentices, they will continue to learn the skills of the trade, they will qualify for regular wage increases.
All active-duty service members looking to transition out of the military and start a new, rewarding civilian career are encouraged to visit the UA VIP website.
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