The students in Camp Pendleton Welding Class 44 have officially reached the halfway point of their advanced UA VIP training.
The UA VIP is a DOD SkillBridge program created to assist active-duty service members as they transition out of the military and into a civilian lifestyle.
UA VIP graduates are guaranteed a job with a UA signatory contractor at an agreed-upon location after they transition out of the military.
Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Matthew Smeltekop said the UA VIP program is an extremely educational experience that he learned about from a friend who is also enrolled in the program.
“I decided to join so I could do something different in my life because if you stay in your comfort zone, you will not progress,” Smeltekop said.
Smeltekop recommends the UA VIP program to any active-duty service member who is thinking about transitioning out of the military and said it is an excellent option for individuals to acquire a skill that can be applied to the civilian world.
“Instructors Jason Culkin and Dave Ramirez are the VIPs for veterans in the piping industry,” Smeltekop said. “They possess a profound understanding of their responsibilities and the authority to execute them with the utmost compassion and empathy.”
Smeltekop plans to stay in California and just recently learned he will begin his UA apprenticeship with UA Local 230 in San Diego.
Marine Cpl. Brice Tanner is adjusting well to the UA VIP program and said the on-base classroom setting is outstanding and the structure of the class is impeccable.
“My experience in the UA VIP program so far is top-tier,” he said. “It surpasses all of my expectations and is fantastic.”
After Tanner met Instructor Jason Culkin he decided to join because the UA VIP program is secure and provides its students with everything they need in order to succeed.
After graduating and transitioning out of the military, Tanner will travel to Colorado to begin his apprenticeship training with UA Local 208, in Denver.
Other Welding Class 44 students will stay in California after leaving the military, while others will travel to various parts of Illinois, Pennsylvania, Texas, Nebraska, Tennessee, North Carolina, Georgia and Washington to begin their apprenticeships.
Prepare for a career in the pipe trades
The UA VIP program prepares students with the skills necessary to thrive in a civilian pipe trades career.
UA VIP graduates are guaranteed direct entry into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program and job placement with a UA signatory contractor.
After transitioning out of the military, VIP students are placed with a UA Local Union at an agreed-upon location nationwide, where they will complete their five-year apprenticeship program.
While working as apprentices, VIP graduates will earn good union wages and quickly qualify for comprehensive healthcare benefits for themselves and their families.
Any interested active-duty service members who are looking for a rewarding career are encouraged to visit the UA VIP website.
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