In the opening weeks of class for the United Association Veterans in Piping Fort Campbell Welding Class 11, the instructor told the students they can all be great assets to the UA.
Welding Class 11, which began on Oct. 8, is made up of 18 students, who are learning basic welding skills to help start new careers in the piping industry.
During this free accelerated 18-week class, transitioning active-duty military service members will acquire welding certificates and learn proper safety training.
The first major goal accomplished by participants was to acquire their OSHA 30 safety training certification. With safety training complete, members are now learning basic welding techniques, such as welding stringer beads.
“I tell all these students that the sky's the limit when learning in the UA VIP Program and to hold onto this opportunity for everything that it’s worth,” said Fort Campbell Welding Instructor Michael Smith.
After the UA VIP students graduate on Feb. 14 and then transition out of the military, they will begin a guaranteed job with a UA signatory contractor at an agreed upon geographical location. These jobs pay livable wages and provide members with health care and retirement benefits such as a 401k plan or a pension.
In addition to guaranteed employment, students will also begin a five-year UA registered apprenticeship program. As an apprentice, they will gain new skills and industry education, as they work to become a highly trained and highly skilled journeyman.
“If they are good leaders in the military, then I know they will make a good foreman and more once they begin their career in the UA,” said Smith. I foresee all these students being a great asset to the UA.”
The students seem to be excited about learning everything there is to know about their new welding career, Smith said.
Military service members who are preparing to transition out of the armed forces can apply to the UA VIP Program, which is located on seven military bases across the country.
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