Snohomish County is one of Washington’s most important hubs for advanced manufacturing and aerospace—and developing the skilled workforce to support that industry is critical to the region’s economic future.
On January 21, AJAC participated in a webinar hosted by the Future Workforce Alliance Board of Snohomish County to share who we are, what we do, and how our apprenticeship and training programs are supporting employers and workers across the county.
Who Is AJAC?
AJAC is a nonprofit organization that has supported Washington’s advanced manufacturing workforce since 2008. Our mission is to provide high-quality registered apprenticeship training for manufacturing and aerospace employers—primarily within the supply chain—while creating clear career pathways for workers.
As Washington’s largest advanced manufacturing apprenticeship program, AJAC trains nearly 80% of the state’s manufacturing apprentices. We work closely with employers, job seekers, and workers to build long-term talent pipelines that support both business growth and career advancement.
AJAC’s Footprint in Snohomish County
AJAC currently partners with more than 50 advanced manufacturing companies in Snohomish County and supports over 55 active apprentices in the region. Apprentices attend related supplemental instruction at Everett Community College while completing paid, on-the-job training with their employers.
Since 2010, more than 200 AJAC apprentices living in Snohomish County have completed their programs—earning valuable credentials and moving into family-wage manufacturing careers.
Youth Apprenticeship Opportunities
AJAC works with high schools across the region to introduce students to manufacturing careers through registered youth apprenticeships and career exploration activities.
In Snohomish County, AJAC partners closely with the Sno-Isle Skill Center to offer a Production Technician youth apprenticeship for high school juniors and seniors enrolled in CTE programs. We also participate in Manufacturing Week, career fairs, and classroom presentations to help students explore hands-on manufacturing careers early.
The AJAC Manufacturing Academy: A Pre-Apprenticeship Pathway
AJAC’s Manufacturing Academy is a state-recognized pre-apprenticeship program designed to prepare adults for entry-level jobs in advanced manufacturing and aerospace.
The program includes:
- 300 hours of hands-on training completed in 10 weeks
- Instruction in shop math, machining fundamentals, blueprint reading, and precision measurement
- Industry certifications including OSHA 10, Lean, CPR/First Aid, and forklift training
- Up to 30 hours of one-on-one career navigation support
Since launching in Snohomish County in 2024, the Manufacturing Academy has graduated five cohorts with an 87% completion rate. Approximately 65% of graduates have secured employment, and about one-third transition into registered apprenticeships within six months.
Adult Registered Apprenticeships
AJAC’s adult apprenticeship programs are the foundation of our work. Apprentices must be employed by an AJAC partner company and earn wages while completing structured on-the-job training and college-level coursework.
AJAC offers 15 registered apprenticeship occupations, including:
- Production Machine Operator
- Machinist
- CNC Programmer
- Manufacturing Technician
- Maintenance Technician
- Tool & Die Maker
- Logistics & Operations Specialist
Many of these programs are stackable, allowing apprentices to advance through multiple occupations as their skills grow.
Supporting Apprentices for Long-Term Success
AJAC provides ongoing support throughout the apprenticeship journey, including academic assistance, accessibility accommodations, and connections to supportive services through partner colleges. Our goal is to remove barriers wherever possible and ensure apprentices have the tools they need to succeed.
Building the Future of Manufacturing in Snohomish County
Through youth engagement, pre-apprenticeship training, and registered apprenticeships, AJAC is helping Snohomish County employers develop skilled talent while opening doors to stable, well-paying careers for local residents.
Apprenticeship works—for businesses, workers, and communities.
