Manufacturing Academy
Hands-On Manufacturing Training That Builds Real Skills—and Real Confidence
Get Trained. Get Hired.
The AJAC Manufacturing Academy is a hands-on manufacturing training program designed to prepare students for long-term careers in modern manufacturing.
Students receive industry-aligned instruction, extensive shop experience, and—upon completion—direct, one-on-one support from AJAC’s Career Navigation Team to help them transition into manufacturing jobs or registered apprenticeships.
This is not theoretical training. Students learn by doing—using industry-standard equipment, practicing core manufacturing processes, and receiving direct feedback from experienced instructors who understand what today’s employers expect.
Launch Your Career Today!
Ready to take the first step toward a career in manufacturing?
Complete our online interest form to get the dates, times, and access details for an upcoming online information session about AJAC’s 10-week Manufacturing Academy.
Attending an information session is a required step in the application process.
During the live session, you’ll meet our instructors, learn what the program involves, review completion requirements, and find out how to get started.
After you attend, we’ll send you the Manufacturing Academy application and instructions for completing your enrollment.
Manufacturing Academy Locations
Each quarter, AJAC operates the Manufacturing Academy at select locations. Click the drop down menu below to learn about the next class in your area.
- Structure of Program: Classroom learning takes place in person from Monday to Thursday. On Fridays, students will complete independent study from home.
- Class Requirement: Must be 18 or older, a Washington State resident, legally allowed to work in the U.S., complete all paperwork, and attend class daily. You will be required to provide your Social Security Number.
- Class Start Date: January 12 – March 24, 2027 | 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
- Length of Program: 10 Weeks (Monday – Friday)
- Location: South Seattle College—Georgetown Campus (6737 Corson Ave S, Seattle, WA 98108)
- Structure of Program: Classroom learning takes place in person from Monday to Thursday. On Fridays, students will complete independent study from home.
- Class Requirement: Must be 18 or older, a Washington State resident, legally allowed to work in the U.S., complete all paperwork, and attend class daily. You will be required to provide your Social Security Number.
- Class Start Date: January 12 – March 24, 2027 | 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
- Length of Program: 10 Weeks (Monday – Friday)
- Location: Bates Technical College—Downtown Campus (1101 S. Yakima Ave, Tacoma, WA 98405)
- Structure of Program: Classroom/shop learning takes place in person from Monday to Thursday. On Fridays, students will complete independent study from home.
- Class Requirement: Must be 18 or older, a Washington State resident, legally allowed to work in the U.S., complete all paperwork, and attend class daily. You will be required to provide your Social Security Number.
- Class Dates: January 12 – March 24, 2027 | 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
- Length of Program: 10 Weeks (Monday – Friday)
- Location: Yakima, WA (215 North 3rd Avenue Yakima, WA 98902)
Learn More & Enroll Today!
Outcomes at a Glance
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About the Manufacturing Academy
In just 10 weeks, students gain real experience using industry tools, machines, and materials; build foundational manufacturing skills; and earn recognized certifications. Graduates then work directly with AJAC’s Career Navigation Team to identify employment and apprenticeship opportunities aligned with their goals.
Developed in 2011 as Washington State’s first recognized advanced manufacturing apprenticeship preparation program, the Manufacturing Academy creates a direct pathway into well-paying manufacturing careers. Funded through grants, the program removes cost barriers and expands access for individuals seeking stable, long-term employment in manufacturing.
A Pathway to Career Security in Manufacturing
The Manufacturing Academy is designed to remove barriers to entry and provide a supported pathway into stable manufacturing careers and registered apprenticeships.
Upon completion, graduates gain direct access to AJAC’s Career Navigation Team—a dedicated resource that works individually with each student to identify next steps.
Career Navigation support includes:
- Guidance on manufacturing job opportunities
- Support applying for registered apprenticeships
- Help understanding career pathways and advancement options
- Ongoing advising as students transition into the workforce
By combining hands-on training with structured career navigation, the Manufacturing Academy helps students move forward with clarity, confidence, and long-term career security.
Discovering Manufacturing: Robby's Path to Becoming a Machinist
This workforce training program receives partial support and funding from U.S. Department of Labor Apprenticeship: Building America grants. Read more about USDOL grant funding at esd.wa.gov/usdol.
Equal Opportunity | Equal Access
Training of all those served shall be without discrimination based on race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or as otherwise specified by law. AJAC also encourages women, minorities and veterans to apply with their employer.