This June, Isaac Phillips and Chase Allee will graduate not only from high school, but also as certified journey-level workers in AJAC’s Automation Technician Youth Apprenticeship program—a milestone they never imagined when they first stepped into a woodshop class at Elma High School.
Through a partnership between the Elma School District, Sierra Pacific Industries in Shelton, WA, and AJAC, these two students spent the last two years gaining real-world experience, technical skills, and industry credentials—all before the age of 18.
Finding a New Path
Isaac’s journey began in woodshop class, where his instructor, Tyler Wrens, introduced him to the apprenticeship opportunity. “I never thought something that simple could put me on a track like this,” Isaac says. “I thought I was going to play football in college, but once I learned about this program, everything changed. I’m glad it did.”
For Chase, the program opened doors he didn’t know existed. “It’s given me the knowledge and the direction I need for a career after high school,” he said. “I’ve worked with people who are where I want to be, and now I know how to get there.”
Real-World Skills, Real-Life Lessons
Both apprentices emphasized how the program taught them more than just how to operate machinery or read blueprints—it taught them how to learn. Chase says that adaptability has been one of the most valuable skills he’s gained. “The ability to learn quickly and apply what you know, that’s huge in any career.”
Isaac admits the early mornings and full workdays were a challenge. “Waking up at 2:30 a.m. to be at work by 4:00 was tough, especially on days without school. But it taught me consistency, discipline, and the value of hard work.”
A New Definition of Success
For Chase, earning a journeyman card before graduating high school is a point of pride—and proof that success doesn’t have to follow the traditional path. “A lot of people become journeymen later in life. I did it before I turned 18. That’s something I’ll carry with me forever.”
Isaac agrees: “It’s different from flipping burgers or working a job with no long-term growth. We’re learning how to use tools, how to think critically, how to build and fix things. This is something meaningful.”
A Brighter Future for the Next Generation
Both graduates believe their success is just the beginning—for themselves and for others in their community. “More and more students at our school are interested in this program because of what they’ve seen us accomplish,” Isaac says. “It feels good to be part of something bigger, to be one of the first and to help grow it for the future.”
Their advice to younger students? You don’t have to go to college to be successful. There are other paths—paths that lead to good-paying jobs, valuable skills, and a sense of purpose.
“I can look in the mirror and say I’m doing a good job,” Isaac reflects. “I’m proud of where I’m at, and I know I’m on the fast track to success.”
