b'TracingOpportunityAlex Kelm always knew she wanted to be a mechanic, so she joined the Marine Corps to work as a diesel mechanic. The work ethic and comradery that she experienced in the Marine Corps are things that she proudly exemplifies. Her confidence is evi-dent, and that will serve her well as a welder/pipefit-ter in the UA. When it was time to transition out of the Marine Corps, Alex was looking for a program that would enhance the skills she solidified as a Ser-geant. She learned about the VIP welding program at Camp Lejeune from fellow Marines. She said, They told me about the work opportunities that were all over the country, and that I wouldnt have to go back to Michiganwhere I grew upif I didnt want to. Alex applied to the welding program at Camp Leje-une and was accepted. As it turns out, when it was time to pick where she wanted to be placed to con-tinue with her pipefitter/welder apprenticeship pro-gram, Alex chose Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 190 in Ann Arbor, roughly 45 minutes from where she grew up in Michigan. I was happy to come home, she said. I like that the job is ever-changing, Alex said. Youre always expanding your knowledge. Welding is an art. You can always do better. What I love about it is you are leaving something behind that will be there for a very long time. She also added, When it comes to apprentices and journeymen who have been in the military, we are more capable of picking up and leaving to move on to new things than people who have not been in the military. We are used to change, and it doesnt scare us. Alex views walking on to a new jobsite as an opportunity.Since Ive been in the UA, I am financially better off than I was as a Sergeant in the Marines, Alex said. Its also nice to be able to go to a real doctor. Ive been able to find some relief for back pain that I Alex Kelm wouldnt have had from the military. I dont have to worry about money for the first time in my life. I am Third-year apprentice, Plumbers, now able to get a newer car that is reliable. It has Pipetters, and Gas Distribution given me peace of mind, for sure. The VIP program Local 190, Ann Arbor, MI has opened a world of opportunity for me, so I would encourage others to apply. Career Opportunities in Piping for Transitioning Veterans|Fall/Winter 2019 7'