AJAC | Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeships

Growing up in a dysfunctional family surrounded by drug addiction, Juanita lacked the education and guidance most people take for granted. Her life took a difficult turn early on, leading to a prison sentence. However, it was within those walls that she found a lifeline—AJAC’s pre-apprenticeship program, the Manufacturing Academy. Upon release, Juanita embraced the apprenticeship program, which provided the structure, goals, and accountability she needed. From mastering algebra and blueprint reading to excelling at Machining Technology Incorporated, Juanita’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of second chances. With support from AJAC’s Career Navigation team and her mentors, Juanita turned her life around. She’s now a second-year AJAC machinist apprentice, confidently building a successful career and a stable future. Finding Structure and Success with Apprenticeship: https://lnkd.in/gpF8U2hV

Some employers hesitate to hire high school students on the shop floor, but these young adults are more than ready for any challenge! Big shoutout to Daniel for the fantastic work, and a huge thanks to Fabtech Precision Sheet Metals for their support of youth apprenticeships!

It was a celebration to remember for our Spokane apprentices and instructors at last month's graduation, as they nearly swept the award ceremony! Full steam ahead for apprenticeships and advanced manufacturing in the inland northwest: https://lnkd.in/gQ75yiAj Salvatore Lorenzen Greater Spokane Incorporated Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce Dean Cameron

Congratulation to the Class of 2024! Event photos and recap from our annual commencement ceremony last month at The Museum of Flight: https://lnkd.in/gjvGSc6P

🔧 The Skilled Labor Challenge in Manufacturing 🔧 Finding skilled labor is a significant hurdle in today's manufacturing industry. At FABTECH Precision Sheet Metals in Spokane Valley, WA, this challenge has been met head-on through a strategic partnership with AJAC. Matt Lynch from FABTECH shares how this collaboration has revolutionized their workforce and streamlined production processes. How Youth Apprenticeships Revolutionized FABTECH Precision Sheet Metals: https://lnkd.in/gjWJ24uz

Youth Apprenticeships foster a culture of identifying young adults who seek a long-term career path in advanced manufacturing. We sat down with Albert Rooks, CEO of Small Planet Supply to hear why his company took the leap and hired their first apprentice this year through our partnership with the Elma School District. 🔗 | https://lnkd.in/gk9Q2wED Michelle Pope Thurston Economic Development Council Damian Magista

Gen Z is being dubbed the "toolbelt generation" as more high school students choose apprenticeships over four-year colleges. Meet Daniel, a high school student and former aspiring engineer who is now a rockstar machinist at FABTECH Precision Sheet Metals in Spokane Valley, WA. With AJAC's support, Daniel has seamlessly blended education and hands-on experience, earning an income, and fast-tracking his career in advanced manufacturing! Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gJ9AN3Kw

📢 Attention Pierce County residents! 📢 Looking to jumpstart your career in manufacturing? The AJAC Manufacturing Academy is here to help you build a brighter future, FREE for all Washington State residents 18 and older! Our comprehensive training program offers hands-on experience, industry certifications, and the skills needed to excel in today’s manufacturing landscape. 🔧 What you'll get: ✅Expert-led training ✅Foundational manufacturing skills in-demand by employers ✅Industry-recognized certifications ✅Connection to local hiring employers ✅Pipeline into registered apprenticeship Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your skills, AJAC's Manufacturing Academy has got you covered. 📅 Apply now and take the first step towards a brighter future. Visit us at https://lnkd.in/gsW3ZPyS for more details.

We did it! Another AJAC Youth Program launched. Thanks to the entire team for making it happen. #youthapprenticeship #apprenticeship #washingtonstate AJAC | Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeships

We're thrilled to announce the graduation of not one, but three Manufacturing Academy cohorts this month! Through our valued partnership with Green River College, Bates Technical College, and South Seattle College, 39 dedicated students have earned their certificate of completion after completing our rigorous 10-week pre-apprenticeship program. These graduates have honed essential manufacturing skills such as precision measurement, machining, and blueprint reading, setting a solid foundation for their careers. What's more, they've earned industry certifications in Lean Manufacturing, OSHA-10, and CPR/First Aid, equipping them for success in the field. Beyond graduation, our career navigation team is hard at work connecting these talented individuals with local employers, paving the way for them to continue their journey as registered AJAC apprentices. Congratulations to all the graduates! Your hard work and dedication are an inspiration to us all. Demetria "Lynn" Strickland Chris Pierson Amy Suter Briana Durham Laura K. Dr. Yifan Sun WorkForce Central DeeAnn Harris