For those looking to advance their careers in manufacturing, understanding the full scope of what goes into running a business can be eye-opening. Chris Urbat, a recent graduate of AJAC’s Operations Specialist apprenticeship program, experienced that firsthand during his journey at HDT Global in Spokane, Washington.
A New Perspective on Manufacturing Operations
Chris began his career on the shop floor, working in the thick of daily operations. Like many, his initial understanding of manufacturing was limited to what he could see and do firsthand. However, as his role evolved, he quickly realized there was so much more involved in the larger business operations that drive success.
“I’ve come to understand how every dollar counts,” Chris shares. “I now see where that dollar comes from, where it needs to go, and how it contributes to producing two dollars for the company. This apprenticeship really expanded my knowledge in ways I didn’t anticipate.”
Learning Real-World Skills
Throughout the program, Chris learned critical management tools such as Gantt charts and Pareto charts—methods he now uses regularly to oversee and plan his team’s production schedule. As a supervisor, these tools allow him to track daily, weekly, and monthly goals, adjust schedules on the fly, and ensure his team consistently hits their targets.
One of the standout aspects of AJAC’s apprenticeship model for Chris was the interactive nature of the classes. “The instructors were incredibly knowledgeable, but what really made the difference for me was the open forum,” he explains. “I learned just as much from my classmates as I did from the course material. There were things I picked up that weren’t even part of the curriculum, simply from the shared experiences of others.”
A Perfect Opportunity for Growth
For Chris, the apprenticeship was not just about gaining technical skills—it was about seizing an opportunity to continue growing. “I’ve never been one to pass up an opportunity to learn,” he says. “This program gave me the experience and knowledge to advance my career and perform better in my role.”
The apprenticeship model also offered Chris financial relief, a huge advantage for many adult learners. “I didn’t have to stop earning money to attend class, and I didn’t have to take out loans or go into debt to get this education. I was able to learn on the job while applying those skills in real-time, and the program was affordable.”
Preparing for the Future
As a result of his apprenticeship, Chris feels more prepared to face new challenges in his career. “I’ve jumped around different positions, but each time I was ready because of what I’d learned in the program. I had already gained the knowledge and skills I needed before stepping into those roles.”
His story illustrates how apprenticeships like AJAC’s are more than just educational programs—they are a pathway to real career advancement, offering practical skills, networking opportunities, and financial advantages that allow people to thrive in their chosen industries.
Chris’s journey highlights the value of apprenticeship programs in shaping successful manufacturing careers. His newfound understanding of operations, combined with hands-on experience and continuous learning, has empowered him to take on new responsibilities and excel in his role at HDT.
About HDT Global
HDT Global specializes in the design and manufacture of state-of-the-art, durable and fully integrable solutions for mobile/expeditionary missions, or rugged living/working conditions. HDT is the only supplier with core capabilities in environmental control and protection, intelligent and conditioned power, advanced materials, mechatronics, and engineering/technical services able to offer fully integrated turnkey solutions to our customers which may include shelters, heaters, air conditioning units, power generators, air filtration units and filters all manufactured by one company – HDT.