Career Opportunities in Piping for Transitioning Veterans | Spring/Summer 2017 13 William Watson “When I entered the program I had no welding experience. I was learning a whole new skill, so for me it was great. I couldn’t have asked for any- thing better. I’m really enjoying the school aspect. School days are long days, but I like it. You learn things you might not learn in the field, like math equations that you’ll need in the field. I remember thinking when I started the math class, ‘I have no idea what to do with that!’ It had been a long time since I did math equations, but they understand that, and I picked it up quickly. The hard part for veterans is losing your purpose, and working here allows you to find a purpose again.” – William Watson, JBLM VIP graduate, second-year apprentice, Local 393, San Jose, CA