Army Sgt. David Lee, Army Spc. Billy Northrop and Army Sgt. Connor Higgins are shining examples of the success that comes from hard work, dedication and the opportunities provided by the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program.
As graduates of Joint Base Lewis-McChord Welding Class 1, these three laid the foundation for their civilian careers by learning the basics of welding through hands-on training and classroom instruction.
After graduating from the program and transitioning out of the military, the trio made the bold decision to move across the country to Boston, where they began their apprenticeships with UA Local 537.
Today, they are successful journeymen, working as a foreman, general foreman and superintendent. They prove the UA VIP program can be a life-changing pathway for transitioning service members. 
“All three of us had booths next to each other for 17 weeks during the VIP program and then we went to Boston together to begin our apprenticeships,” Lee said. “After completing our apprenticeships, we’ve all managed to achieve success due to the opportunities the VIP program has afforded us.”
Despite all three relocating to Boston, they were in different apprenticeship classes and never worked on the same jobs, seeing each other occasionally.
It wasn’t until 12 years later that the trio reunited at the Construction Working Minds Summit in Dallas, Texas.
Northrop said the three of them didn’t miss a beat.
“It was like seeing a long lost brother that’s been away for some time,” he said. “We all have a mutual respect and understanding for one another and I can honestly say we would help one another at the drop of a dime.”
When Higgins first arrived at Local 537, having friends who also served in the military made him feel more at home.
“Being able to talk to the guys I went through VIP with and reach out to them for help, whether it’s personal or professional, is great,” Higgins said.
From military service to skilled trades
During their time in the UA VIP program, Lee, Higgins and Northrop learned under the guidance of experienced journeymen instructors.
The program’s accelerated training model prepared them for the challenges of the welding trade, equipping them with industry-recognized certifications and practical experience.
Their journey from active-duty military service to skilled tradesmen exemplifies the UA VIP program’s mission to provide seamless transitions to rewarding civilian careers.
As journeymen, they now enjoy competitive wages, excellent healthcare benefits and the security of being part of a union that supports their professional growth.
Their shared journey is a testament to the bond forged during their training at JBLM and the opportunities that await UA VIP graduates in the pipe trades.
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