Camp Pendleton Welding Class 44 students graduated from the United Association Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program on Jan. 16.
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 service members in their last six months of service prepare for a new civilian career through DOD SkillBridge training.
Class 44 students were taught the fundamentals of welding by experienced UA journeymen Jason Culkin and David Ramirez. Students had the opportunity to graduate with certifications in SMAW and GTAW pipe welding.
“This has been a successful class, even with a short but busy schedule,” Culkin said. “These top-notch students are ready for their new careers in the United Association piping industry. I am confident in that!”
Class 44 graduates will begin their UA apprenticeships across the country. Graduates have agreed to relocate to various parts of California, Colorado, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Nebraska, Tennessee, Texas, Kentucky, Washington, North Carolina and Georgia.
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 a civilian career with UA VIP
The UA VIP program prepares students with the skills necessary to excel in a civilian union pipe trades career.
After transitioning out of the military, UA VIP graduates are guaranteed direct entry into a DOL-registered UA apprenticeship program and job placement with a UA signatory contractor.
Once VIP graduates transition out of the military, they will be placed with a UA Local Union at an agreed-upon location, where they will complete their five-year apprenticeship program.
While working as apprentices, UA VIP graduates will earn good union wages and will quickly qualify for comprehensive healthcare for themselves and their families.
All transitioning active-duty service members who are looking for a rewarding career are highly encouraged to apply for the UA VIP program.
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