Information for Veterans

GI Bill Benefits & Registered Apprenticeship Programs / OJT

Registered apprenticeships constitute qualified training for a veteran to receive benefits under Chapter 30, Montgomery GI Bill and Chapter 31, Vocational Rehabilitation.

Depending on your length of service, your survivors may be eligible under Chapter 35, Survivors or Dependents programs. Check with OPI for specifics.

All GI Bill programs have the same participation requirements and pay a monthly stipend directly to the eligible beneficiary. However, the payment amount varies by program. 

• Contact the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs for more information

Combat to Construction (C2C)

Sponsored by Operating Engineers Local 139, the Combat to Construction program helps veterans, returning veterans, reservists, and National Guard members obtain the basic skills needed to operate heavy equipment.

The eight-week course occurs in two phases:

• Two weeks of classroom learning at the Operating Engineers Training Facility in Coloma, WI
• Six weeks of on-the-job learning with a union employer in the participant's geographical home area
• Find more information at the Operating Engineers Local 139 website

Veterans in Piping (VIP)

Sponsored by the Wisconsin Pipe Trades Association, the Veterans in Piping program helps veterans, returning veterans, reservists, and National Guard members obtain the basic skills needed for a rewarding career within the pipe trades.

The 18-week program occurs in two phases:

• Six weeks of classroom learning at participating union facilities throughout Wisconsin.
• Twelve weeks of on-the-job-learning with employers from the participant's preferred union training facility or geographical home area
• Opportunities at the United Association (UA) Local 400 and the Steamfitters Local 601.