18-MONTHS | 3,000 HOURS
Machine operators play a crucial role in manufacturing: they set, run, and maintain the machines that make the products we use every day. Whether in automotive, aerospace, food processing, or consumer goods, you’ll work hands-on, solving problems and ensuring quality.
As a Production Machine Operator apprentice, you’ll spend 18-months learning how to safely operate and monitor production machinery, calibrate equipment, troubleshoot issues, and maintain high standards of quality and efficiency.
| Program Length | 18-Months |
| On-the-Job Hours | 3,000 |
| College Classes | 6 |
| College Credits | 30 |
Production Machine Operators are skilled specialists who ensure production runs smoothly and safely.
You’ll learn to:
Every production line needs competent machine operators — now is your chance to become one.
AJAC partners with 300+ advanced manufacturers across Washington and Idaho to deliver structured, paid on‑the‑job training. Apprentices only work for employers who commit to supporting the program, ensuring you get real experience and mentorship.
Industries hiring Production Machine Operators include:
This apprenticeship is an entry-level opportunity that provides a strong foundation in manufacturing, machining, and maintenance.
Program Highlights:
*This is a Washington State average for this occupation. Wage rates vary by employer, industry, experience and location.
Classes are held one evening per week (Tuesday–Thursday, 5–9 PM) and are available online or in person at local colleges, high schools, or skill centers. Tuition: $400 per class (50% reduced rate). Many employers pay the full cost.
This is the first of two courses that explores the foundational principles and skills of industrial machine maintenance as it relates to a machine operator. Apprentices learn predictive and preventative maintenance and troubleshooting strategies for machine repair.
This is the second of two courses that explores the foundational principles and skills of industrial machine maintenance as it relates to the machine operators. Apprentices learn about mechanical rigging and installation, including safety, installation, and ways to perform lifts.
In this course, apprentices develop an understanding of the functions of a Quality Assurance (QA) system. They identify the elements of QA systems and how they support safe food manufacturing processing. They learn the purpose of food safety and quality practices and strategies.
This course introduces apprentices to metallurgy, material properties, and the processes used to manipulate metals. They will study the composition and characteristics of steel, stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum, and brass while exploring manufacturing techniques like machining, casting, forging, and heat treatment. Hands-on projects and modern inspection methods, such as hardness testing and non-destructive testing, provide practical experience in material testing and identification.
Learn to read and interpret engineering drawings and schematics, as well as practice basic drafting. Drawings studied in this class will come both from the text and from industry, and will include machining, fabrication, assemblies, and fluid power systems (only for Automation/Maintenance program).
In this course, students will be able to relate LEAN Six Sigma concepts to production objectives. They will identify waste within the value stream and demonstrate the ability to effectively analyze and present data to co-workers and stakeholders. They will define and apply team leadership tools to aid in process improvement. Students will collect and process customer or internal stakeholder input/requirements and identify key metrics for measuring success. Students will define the DMAIC process and effectively use tools and concepts associated with each phase of the DMAIC process. Finally, they’ll employ Lean Six Sigma skills in process improvement projects.
Apprentices gain hands-on experience with structured tasks to ensure well-rounded expertise:
| OJT Competency | Approx. OJT Hours |
|---|---|
| Preventative & Predicative Machine Maintenance | 300 |
| Manufacturing Basics & Safety | 500 |
| Quality Assurance Basics | 800 |
| Manufacturing Equipment Setup & Production Processes | 1,400 |
| TOTAL HOURS | 3,000 |
Find an Employer Partner: Apply to a company already partnered with AJAC — or, if your employer isn’t yet a partner, they can easily join the program. The process is simple and AJAC will guide them through every step.
Get Company Approval: Your supervisor signs off on apprenticeship participation.
Sign the Apprenticeship Agreement: AJAC visits your employer to finalize.
Start Classes: Enroll in your first college-level course.
Track Hours: Log on-the-job training through AJAC’s Apprentice Tracking System.
Graduate: Earn your Journey-Level Certificate and AJAC Certificate of Completion.
No matter where you begin—whether it’s running machines or maintaining equipment—AJAC’s Stackable Apprenticeships give you the power to keep climbing in your career pathway.
Start in an entry-level role and build your way into highly skilled, specialized, or even leadership positions—all without student debt. Each program builds on the last, helping you expand your skills, increase your earning potential, and take on new responsibilities—without putting your career on hold.
Submit your information using the link below. After we receive your information, an AJAC representative will contact you for next steps. Please note, this is not an official application to become an apprentice. After a partnering employer agrees to enroll you in the program, you will officially apply and enroll at that time.