AJAC Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeships

Parents Now Believe the Skilled Trades Offer a Better Return on Investment Than College by Nearly 3 to 1.

More than half (55%) of parents believe schools still do not take the trades as seriously as university pathways, and 80% believe giving college and the trades equal promotion would encourage more students to consider skilled trade careers.

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The Annual Blue Collar Report 2026 powered by Jobber In the age of AI, the trades offer a proven way for Gen Z to thrive in the face of automation, instability, and student debt. So why aren’t they choosing them? We surveyed 1,000+ Gen Zs and and 1,000+ parents of Gen Zs to find out.

Congrats to Tyrel and George, who officially became AJAC apprentices last week through Toolcraft!

Tyrel is starting his journey in our Production Technician Youth Apprenticeship, balancing high school, part-time work, and college level classes at Sno-Isle TECH Skills Center. George is beginning our four year Machinist Apprenticeship and will start earning on the job training hours and taking classes this fall.

Thinking about apprenticeship? AJAC doesn't have an application process. If you work for one of our employer partners and they're ready to sponsor you, we'll take it from there.

Learn how enrollment works: https://www.ajactraining.org/enrollment/

Washington is home to more than 8,200 manufacturers, and every one of them depends on skilled people to keep things moving.

This recent The Seattle Times story shines a light on the manufacturers building our state's economy. At AJAC, we're proud to help build the workforce behind them through our registered apprenticeship programs.

It's a great reminder that strong manufacturing starts with a strong workforce.

Yes, we have 8,282 manufacturers in WA. They actually make things. Small manufacturers Misty Mountain, Rite in the Rain and Goodwin Composites share how they found their niches and how they survive as tariffs rise and consumer interests change.

Great food, great company, and great connections!

We had a fantastic time at Mitutoyo's annual Hawaiian Luau at their Renton headquarters. It was great catching up with current and former AJAC instructors Tim Bacon, Darin Chase, and Duane Stephens, and we loved seeing our recent graduation ceremony featured in Mitutoyo's display case.

A big thank you to the MITUTOYO AMERICA CORPORATION team for the warm hospitality. We always enjoy spending time with such a great partner.

What does it take to prepare someone for a career in manufacturing?

It starts with giving them the chance to learn by doing.

Tormach Inc. recently interviewed AJAC about how we're using their CNC machines to help prepare the next generation of machinists. From reading blueprints and writing G-code to programming and running parts, students build real skills on equipment that reflects what they'll see in today's manufacturing facilities.

We're grateful to TORMACH for taking the time to tell our story and for supporting hands-on manufacturing education.

AJAC Prepares Apprentices for Manufacturing Careers With Tormach CNC AJAC prepares individuals for manufacturing careers through hands-on training with Tormach CNC machines, blending classroom instruction and practical experience.

"One Last Breath?" Not for Ethan. He's just getting started.

Congrats to Ethan on taking the next step in his manufacturing career by transitioning from AJAC's Youth Apprenticeship program into our adult Machinist Apprenticeship with Electroimpact.

Ethan got his start through our partnership with Sno-Isle TECH Skills Center, making this an exciting milestone in a journey that's only beginning.

Even better, this photo includes Ethan's dad, Chris, Electroimpact's Machine Shop Manager and a Sno-Isle TECH Skills Center graduate himself. It's a great reminder that careers in manufacturing can inspire the next generation, sometimes right at home.

Congratulations to Toolcraft, Inc., AJAC's 2026 Employer of the Year!

For more than a decade, Toolcraft has done more than hire apprentices. They've invested in people, opened doors for future manufacturing professionals, and helped shape the future of our industry. From hiring youth apprentices and Manufacturing Academy graduates to supporting 24 AJAC apprentices, they've been an outstanding partner every step of the way.

Thank you, Toolcraft, for believing in apprenticeship and for making a lasting impact. This award is well deserved!

Congratulations to Jason Vice, AJAC's 2026 Instructor of the Year!

Over the past 14 years, Jason has taught nearly every machining class at AJAC, helping shape the careers of hundreds of apprentices through his knowledge, patience, and commitment to teaching.

This honor is well deserved. Congratulations, Jason!

And stay tuned. In two weeks, we'll be sharing a special video highlighting Jason's story and the impact he's had as an AJAC instructor.