Op-Ed: Investing in the Future

Written by Evan Love, Workforce Development Specialist at Tool Gauge

Evan Love pauses for a photo at Tool Gauge in Tacoma, Washington.

Tool Gauge's Commitment to Workforce Development through Apprenticeships

Evan Love (pictured above) is the Workforce Development Specialist at Tool Gauge in Tacoma, Washington. Tool Gauge began working with AJAC in 2009 and has enrolled 39 apprentices into AJAC’s Operations Specialist, Industrial Maintenance Technician, CNC Programmer, Machinist, Plastic Process Technician, and Tool & Die Maker apprenticeship programs.

In the ever-evolving landscape of advanced manufacturing, Tool Gauge stands out as a beacon of innovation and commitment to workforce development. As a key player in the aerospace and manufacturing industries, Tool Gauge has long recognized the importance of cultivating a skilled workforce to maintain its competitive edge. Central to this mission is the company’s robust apprenticeship program, developed in partnership with AJAC.

Tool Gauge’s decision to embrace apprenticeships as a workforce strategy is rooted in the belief that hands-on learning and practical experience are invaluable. Apprenticeships provide a unique blend of classroom instruction and on-the-job training, ensuring that apprentices gain the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their roles. This approach not only addresses the skills gap in advanced manufacturing but also fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the company.

The partnership with AJAC has been instrumental in shaping Tool Gauge’s apprenticeship program. What began as a collaborative effort to address the immediate need for skilled workers has evolved into a comprehensive strategy for workforce development. Through this partnership, Tool Gauge has been able to offer apprenticeships that are aligned with industry standards and tailored to meet the specific needs of the company. This alignment ensures that apprentices are well-prepared to contribute to Tool Gauge’s success from day one.

Tool Gauge Apprentices

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One of the most significant impacts of the apprenticeship program is its role in developing local talent in Tacoma. By investing in the local workforce, Tool Gauge not only strengthens its ties to the community but also ensures a steady pipeline of skilled workers. This investment has paid off in numerous ways, including improved employee retention rates and increased productivity. Apprenticeships have proven to be a cost-effective method for developing highly skilled workers internally, reducing the need for external hiring and associated costs.

Moreover, the apprenticeship program has created long-term career pathways for both entry-level and existing employees. Success stories abound of individuals who started as apprentices and have since moved into higher roles within the company. These stories are a testament to the value of apprenticeships in fostering career growth and development. Additionally, the program has encouraged innovation by bringing fresh ideas and approaches to Tool Gauge’s processes, further enhancing the company’s ability to stay ahead in a competitive industry.

In conclusion, Tool Gauge’s commitment to apprenticeships is a testament to its dedication to workforce development and community engagement. By partnering with AJAC, Tool Gauge has created a sustainable model for developing the future workforce, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of the manufacturing industry. As other companies in the region consider their own workforce strategies, Tool Gauge’s success with apprenticeships serves as a compelling call to action. Investing in apprenticeships is not just about filling immediate needs; it’s about building a stronger, more resilient workforce for the future.

Thank you,

Evan Love

Workforce Development Specialist

About Tool Gauge

For over 50 years, Tool Gauge has helped aerospace OEMs and tier-one aircraft integrators optimize their supply chain. Operating out of state-of-the-art facilities located in Tacoma, Washington, USA, we manufacture complex, high-quality, value-driven metal and plastic parts and assemblies for the global aerospace industry. We are one of only a handful of Boeing-certified class I and II plastics shops in the world capable of machining full five-axis parts. Our continuous investment in the latest manufacturing technology and engineering solutions combined with our talented staff enables us to supply products of exemplary quality made to very precise specifications at a competitive cost in record time.