Manufacturing How-To Videos

Learn the Basics from AJAC Instructors

Learn Manufacturing Skills, Step by Step

Whether you’re new to manufacturing, brushing up on fundamentals, or exploring a hands-on career, these short how-to videos break down essential manufacturing skills in a clear, practical way.

Each video is taught by AJAC’s industry-trained instructors and focuses on real tools, real processes, and real shop-floor knowledge. No fluff. Just the basics explained the way they’re used in the field.

These videos are designed to mirror how skills are taught in real manufacturing environments, making them useful for students and beginners

Taught by Industry-Trained Manufacturing Instructors

AJAC’s instructors come directly from the manufacturing industry. They teach apprentices and students across Washington State and bring decades of shop experience into the classroom.

These videos are designed to mirror how skills are taught in real manufacturing environments, making them useful for:

Students and beginners
Career changers exploring manufacturing
Apprentices reinforcing what they learn in class
Anyone curious about how manufacturing actually works

Manufacturing How-To Video Library

Browse our growing collection of instructional videos covering common tools, measurements, and foundational manufacturing concepts.

Dial Caliper 101: How to Read & Use Dial Calipers for Precision Measurement

Learn how to read measurements, understand each component, and use dial calipers for four different types of dimensional checks.

Micrometer 101: How to Read & Use an Inch Micrometer for Precision Measurement

In this hands-on tutorial, AJAC instructor Lai Thach walks you through the fundamentals of using an inch micrometer—one of the most essential tools in precision measurement for advanced manufacturing.

Manual Lathe Operation 101: Beginner’s Guide to Setup, Safety & Machining Basics

New to machining or looking to sharpen your lathe skills? In this comprehensive beginner’s guide, AJAC instructor Jason walks you through the essentials of operating a conventional manual lathe safely and effectively.

Milling Machine Basics: Safe Operation, Setup & Nomenclature Explained

Join Jason Walker, an AJAC instructor, as he walks you through the fundamentals of operating a conventional milling machine. This beginner-friendly guide covers everything from machine setup and safety checks to axis movement and digital readout usage.

Manufacturing Safety 101: PPE, Shop Safety & Emergency Preparedness Explained

Safety is the foundation of every successful manufacturing environment. In this video, AJAC instructor Troy Ironmonger covers the essentials of manufacturing safety—from personal protective equipment (PPE) to emergency preparedness—so you can stay safe and productive in the shop.

Manufacturing How-To Video FAQs

Are these videos free to watch?

Yes. These videos are available to anyone interested in learning the basics of manufacturing.

Can these videos help me decide if manufacturing is right for me?

Absolutely. They give you a realistic look at tools, skills, and processes used in manufacturing careers.

Do I need manufacturing experience to follow along?

No. These videos are designed for beginners and explain concepts step by step.

Who teaches the videos?

All videos are taught by AJAC instructors with real-world manufacturing experience.

Want to Learn Manufacturing Hands-On?

These videos are just a starting point. If you’re interested in building real manufacturing skills, AJAC offers no-cost and low-cost training programs, apprenticeships, and career pathways designed to lead directly to jobs.

Explore AJAC Training Programs