When classes convene this September at UAM, some of them will be held at a brand new campus in Springfield , Virginia .

The building and grounds, acquired recently by Steamfitters Local 602, will be open for business for the coming school year. Half of the space will be utilized for classes during the 2008-09 school year, while the other half is being renovated for future use, as more students and more classes are taught in the years to come.

“Having a Virginia facility will make it possible to bring many new apprentices into the program,” according to Ron O'Bier, director of training for Local 602.

UAM has stepped up its Virginia recruiting operations in recent years, and it was found that while many people were excited about opportunities in the mechanical trades, the long commute to Landover was a real problem for those who live south of the Potomac.

Local 602 has leased the building with an option to buy, and is hoping to complete purchase within the coming months. In the meantime, extensive buildout work will begin immediately. The facility is entirely new; UAM will be the first occupant.

All first year classes in the Steamfitting program will be offered starting in September, as well as second-year classes in electrical and refrigeration servicing. The plan is for all second and third year classes to be added in the 2009-10 school year, and the complete five-year curriculum of courses in three years. Plumbing classes may also be added, although none can be offered this year due to the late start of the project.

“A student-apprentice who begins this fall at the Virginia campus will be able to complete his or her entire five year course there,” O'Bier said.