From Feed to Future: The Apprenticeship That Built a Leader

Zacc Fairbairn graduated from AJAC’s 18-month Operations Specialist apprenticeship program in June 2025 through our partnership with Scratch and Peck Feeds which began in August 2023. Scratch and Peck Feeds manufacturers nutritionally complete naturally-free Certified Organic and NON-GMO Project Verified, soy-free animal feeds, supplements, and treats for chickens, turkeys, ducks, goats, sheep, and mini pigs. 

When Zach Fairburn walked into his first AJAC apprenticeship class, he didn’t come from aerospace. He wasn’t building airplanes or machining metal parts. He was managing materials and logistics at Scratch and Peck Feeds in Burlington, Washington—a company producing certified organic, non-GMO animal feed. But that didn’t matter.

What Zach discovered over the next 18 months is that leadership, communication, and mentorship transcend industries.

“It’s funny because the apprenticeship program is definitely kind of geared towards aerospace,” Zach said. “So we’re the chicken feed people that entered into the mix. But it doesn’t really change—whether it’s aerospace or animal feed, the principles apply.”

A Company That Invests in Its People
For Zach, the journey began when the leadership team at Scratch and Peck entrusted him with an opportunity to grow.

“It’s nice to be trusted by your leadership team,” he reflected. “The knowledge I gained is invaluable. I’ll use it for the rest of my career.”
Zach took this trust seriously. He enrolled in AJAC’s Leadership Academy with one goal in mind—self-improvement. A self-described people person, he wanted to become a better communicator, a stronger mentor, and a more effective leader for the next generation of workers.

Culture, Curiosity, and the Power of Learning
Zach emphasized the importance of company culture and continuous growth. The program didn’t just teach technical skills—it reignited a curiosity in him to learn more about the manufacturing side of operations and inspired him to encourage his team to follow in his footsteps.

“The goal is to get better, be better, be more efficient, be better people—as well as making a profit.”
Leadership, he discovered, wasn’t about titles. It was about serving others, staying curious, and always looking for ways to improve.

A Long Commitment—and a Huge Payoff
Eighteen months. Four hours a week. Through summers and long workdays, Zach stuck with the program. And as graduation approached, he found himself filled with gratitude—not only for what he learned, but for the classmates who took the journey with him.

“Together we started this journey. It was a huge accomplishment. Super proud.”
Now, with his AJAC certificate in hand, Zach sees the bigger picture. He’s helping his company. He’s helping his team. He’s honoring his parents, his mentors, and his own drive to succeed.

Advice for Future Apprentices
Zach’s message to anyone thinking about joining an apprenticeship is simple: Don’t rush. Ask questions. And enjoy the journey.

“There’s information out there if you are willing to pursue it,” he said. “Try and slow down and enjoy the journey as you’re taking it—because it goes by in a flash.”

Inspired by Zach’s story? Learn how AJAC’s leadership and manufacturing apprenticeships can help you or your employees grow in any industry. Visit our Operations Specialist apprenticeship web page to learn more.