Fort Campbell Welding Class 23 students graduated from the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program on July 11.
These graduates will begin their new civilian careers as union welders after they transition out of the military.
The UA VIP program was created to help active duty military members in their last six months of service prepare for a new civilian career through DOD SkillBridge training in the pipe trades.
During class, Welding Class 23 students were taught the fundamentals of welding by experienced UA journeymen Chris Johnson and Michael Smith. Students learned oxy-fuel cutting and SMAW and GRAW welding on plates and pipes. 
Some Welding Class 23 students graduated with certifications in SMAW and GTAW pipe welding.
The UA VIP program offers accelerated training in welding, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) and fire suppression.
The UA VIP program offers nine programs at the following seven military installations:
- Joint Base Lewis-McChord (welding and HVACR)
- Camp Pendleton (welding)
- Fort Carson (welding)
- Fort Cavazos (welding)
- Camp Lejeune (welding)
- Fort Campbell (welding and fire suppression)
- Naval Station Norfolk (HVACR)
Prepare for your pipe trades career
The UA VIP program prepares students with the skills necessary to thrive in a civilian pipe trades career.
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 in the apprenticeship program, VIP graduates will earn good union wages and will quickly qualify for comprehensive healthcare for themselves and their families.
After topping out, VIP graduates will become certified journeymen. Journeymen can continue to grow in their trade and become foremen, instructors, superintendents, project managers, business owners and more.
All transitioning active-duty service members who are looking for a rewarding career are highly encouraged to apply for the UA VIP program today.
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