AJAC

“Adopting AJAC’s apprenticeship allowed Washington Beef to restructure and reorganize their maintenance department to where they can put in silos of competency and create a hierarchy within the organization—making an industrial maintenance technician the sought after role. The result? It has leveled the playing field for the younger generation, for individuals that are willing to come in and pursue scholastic advancement as well as a skill advancement using advanced technologies and processes.”

“I remember past instructors that I’ve had and the impact that they’ve made. So I can only imagine that in the future, an apprentice will think about what he/she is doing, and think back to ‘this is what I learned in class’. I seem to be able to connect with people when sharing a principle or process. Then it happens, the student has an “ah ha” moment, mission accomplished!”

“Kailey’s advice to encourage more women to pursue manufacturing: “No matter where you work, you have to have the passion for it. If it is in you, and you are feeling a little nervous, step on in it. I would definitely get into AJAC’s because they are going to guide you and support you. Go for it; be confident in your words, and who you are.”

“The program pushed me to ask more questions because initially, I had a hard time asking questions or asking for help in certain areas. Knowing that I can do it, I became more confident in my abilities over time.”

“I applied to eight or nine different positions and eventually landed on apprentice machinist. Luckily, it was announced the last week of class that Blue Origin is now a sponsor of the AJAC program. Timing wise, I got extremely lucky and I ended up landing the apprentice machinist job.”

“When they told me when I first got here—if you're willing to learn, we're willing to teach, and I was willing to learn. If I wouldn't have gone through this program, I wouldn't be doing good right now. It gives me the chance to get out with some money, stability, and industry-recognized certificates.”

“I just see kids that are excited, excited about the outlook of what’s out there. It’s not just law school or medical school. There’s trades that can be done and be a responsible young person that can provide for themselves and their families.”