Camp Pendleton Welding Class 40 has officially begun at the installation, and the transitioning active-duty service members who are partaking in the career training course will soon be ready for a successful future in the pipe trades.
Through the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) Program, active-duty training service members are in the final six months of military service.
The UA VIP program bridges the gap between military service and civilian careers in the piping industry. In 18 weeks, the program introduces transitioning active-duty service members to the basics of the pipe trades, as they earn industry-recognized certifications.
During Camp Pendleton Welding Class 40, students will learn how to weld and earn certifications in oxy-fuel cutting, SMAW plate welding, SPAW and GTAW pipe welding and SMAW pipe spooling. They will learn how to study blueprints to properly measure, cut and weld, as well as gaining the basic knowledge to one day install, maintain and repair all types of piping systems using various tools and methods.
Students also will dive into the intricate aspects of welding alongside experienced journeyman instructors through hands-on training and classroom instruction.
After they complete the program and transition out of the military, UA VIP graduates will join a UA Department of Labor (DOL) registered apprenticeship program at an agreed-upon location within the U.S.
Men and women who served in the military bring an incomparable set of skills and experiences into the piping industry. Through their time in the military, they develop qualities in discipline, teamwork and attention to detail, which will translate flawlessly into their future welding careers. Their ability to adapt to challenging environments and work under pressure so makes them a valuable asset to contractors in the piping industry.
The UA VIP program was established to mold the unique skillsets of military members into the expertise and technique that accompany becoming a professional in the piping industry.
The benefits of a good-paying union career
Once members of Camp Pendleton Welding Class 40 graduate and transition out of the military, they will enter a UA-registered apprenticeship program. They are guaranteed a job and will go to work for a UA signatory contractor, where they will start to earn good union wages and quickly be eligible for quality healthcare for themselves and their families.
The new apprentices will also receive healthcare and earn a pension and 401K benefits for their retirement. As they progress through the apprenticeship program, they will receive pay raises to recognize their improved skillset and industry knowledge.
Upon completion of the apprenticeship program, active-duty service members will become journeymen in their specific trade.
Active-duty service members looking for a civilian career after their time in the military are invited to apply to the UA VIP program during their last six months of military service. Training is available in welding, HVACR and fire suppression at select military bases across the country.
Veterans transitioning out of the military can apply to any UA VIP locations listed below:
- Camp Pendleton, California
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington
- Fort Carson, Colorado
- Fort Cavazos, Texas
- Camp Lejeune, North Carolina
- Fort Campbell, Kentucky
- Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia
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