The students in Joint Base Lewis-McChord Welding Class 32 are officially halfway done with their UA VIP program training.
The UA VIP program is a DOD SkillBridge program and by joining, these transitioning active-duty service members have guaranteed themselves a smooth transition into a successful civilian career in the pipe trades that will begin after they transition out of the military. 
At this point in their training, Welding Class 32 students have begun selecting the UA Local Union they will join and begin their DOL-registered UA apprenticeship.
Air Force Senior Airman Tony Fountain said adjusting to a classroom environment has been easy and he likes that the class is split between time in the classroom and time practicing hands-on training.
“I have enjoyed the experience so far,” Fountain said. “It is exactly what I wanted and I will also be set up for the apprenticeship in the desired location of my choice.”
After learning about the UA VIP program through his own research, he knew it offered him the best opportunities for starting a civilian career.
“I joined because I know this will be my lifelong career no matter what challenges arise,” Fountain said.
After graduating from the program and transitioning out of the military, Fountain will begin his apprenticeship with UA Local 344 in Oklahoma City.
Army Spc. Hunter Dietrich has enjoyed his time so far in the UA VIP program, especially when he can learn through hands-on training.
“My experience so far has been very good,” Dietrich said. “I have learned a lot of new skills and a lot of new knowledge in the welding world.”
Dietrich heard the UA VIP program was the best Career Skills program offered and knew it would help him start his civilian career.
Dietrich will relocate to Boise, Idaho, where he will join UA Local 296.
The other Class 32 students will begin their apprenticeships with UA Locals in various parts of Oregon, California and Washington.
Learn more about UA VIP
The UA VIP program was founded in 2008 to help active-duty service members start a civilian career when they are ready to leave the military.
Since its creation, the program has helped thousands of transitioning active-duty service members begin a rewarding civilian career in the pipe trades.
After graduating from the UA VIP Program and transitioning out of the military, students in Class 32 will be placed at an agreed-upon location where they will complete a five-year apprenticeship. \
While working as apprentices, VIP graduates will earn good wages and full-family healthcare and retirement benefits.
Eventually, apprentices will top out and become experienced journeymen, which will open up more career paths with the potential for further advancement in the piping industry.
To learn more about the program, visit the UA VIP website.
Comments