The students in Camp Lejeune Welding Class 28 have reached the halfway mark of their accelerated training in the UA VIP program.
Since Class 28 began in January, these active-duty service members have been preparing for their future union careers in the pipe trades.
The UA VIP program is a DOD SkillBridge program designed to help active-duty service members smoothly transition into rewarding civilian careers.
Before they graduate, Class 28 students will learn oxy-fuel cutting, SMAW and GTAW welding on plates, pipes and more.
Students will also have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications that they will carry with them when they begin their apprenticeship programs.
Class 28 students recently selected an agreed-upon UA Local Union in an area where they want to live to start their apprenticeship after they transition out of the military.
Marine Cpl. Justin Chapman will travel to Oklahoma where he will begin his apprenticeship with Pipeliners Local 798.
Marine Lance Cpl. Justin Rico will begin his UA apprenticeship with Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 142 in San Antonio, Texas.
What’s next for Class 28
Class 28 students will continue learning the fundamentals of welding before they graduate from the UA VIP program in April.
After they transition out of the military, all Class 28 graduates will gain direct entry into a UA-registered apprenticeship program, where they will continue to learn and improve their welding skills.
As apprentices, Class 28 graduates will earn a livable wage and full-family healthcare and retirement benefits.
The UA VIP program offers 118 days of accelerated training in welding, HVACR and fire suppression at the following military bases:
- Camp Pendleton
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord
- Fort Carson
- Fort Cavazos
- Camp Lejeune
- Fort Campbell
- Naval Station Norfolk
Individuals interested in joining the UA VIP program do not have to be stationed at these bases in order to join.
To learn more, visit the UA VIP program website.
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