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Manufacturing Academy FAQs
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Your Path to a High-Demand Career
AJAC’s Manufacturing Academy prepares you for entry-level jobs in aerospace and advanced manufacturing. Gain certifications, hands-on training, and direct access to employers in your region—all at no cost.
Is There a Cost to Enroll in the Manufacturing Academy?
While most students qualify for no-cost enrollment through funding, some students may choose to enroll by paying out-of-pocket if they are not eligible. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, we strongly encourage you to apply—our program manager will walk through your options with you. The current out-of-pocket cost is $3,400.
What is the Manufacturing Academy?
The Manufacturing Academy is a no-cost*, hands-on pre-apprenticeship program that prepares students for high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing. Students gain real experience with tools, machines, and materials used by today’s manufacturers.
*The majority of students enroll in the Manufacturing Academy using available funding. AJAC works directly with each applicant to assess eligibility for no-cost enrollment. Applicants who are unsure of their eligibility are encouraged to complete the online application, after which a program manager will follow up to review funding options. Students who do not qualify for funding may still enroll by paying out-of-pocket.
Who Can Apply for the Program?
The Academy welcomes anyone 18+ who is looking to start or change careers. We especially encourage women, people of color, displaced workers, and individuals from low-income backgrounds to apply.
Requirements: Must be 18 or older, ability to be funded and employed in the U.S., complete all paperwork, and attend class daily.
Do I Need Prior Manufacturing Experience?
No experience is required. The program is designed for beginners and provides all the foundational skills you need to succeed in a manufacturing career.
Can I Enroll in the Manufacturing Academy If I Don’t Qualify for Funding?
Yes! Please still complete your Manufacturing Academy application, and the Program Manager will discuss steps to enroll if you do not qualify to enter the program at no-cost.
Will AJAC Offer the Same Manufacturing Academy Locations Each Quarter?
Not necessarily. Some Manufacturing Academy locations will be offered each quarter, where others may only be offered once or twice a year. Check our website regularly to see when the next location near you will begin.
Will AJAC Get Me a Job After Graduating the Manufacturing Academy?
While AJAC does not guarantee job placements, an individual who successfully completes the program and demonstrates work-readiness competencies throughout the program will have the option to work with our Career Navigation Team who can provide support with resume development, interview techniques and introductions with local hiring employers.
Is There an Online Manufacturing Academy Program I Can Take?
Right now, AJAC only offers in-person Manufacturing Academy classes. There is no option to complete this program online.
I Live Outside of Washington State, Can I Still Enroll in the Manufacturing Academy?
Unfortunately, once of the basic requirements to enroll in the Manufacturing Academy is to be a resident of Washington State.
Am I Guaranteed an Apprenticeship Upon Graduating from the Manufacturing Academy?
Manufacturing Academy graduates are highly encouraged to work with our Career Navigation Team to guide them to employment. To become an AJAC apprentice, the hiring company must approve the Manufacturing Academy graduate to move into apprenticeship. This requires a conversation between the graduate and the hiring employer, but can typically take 6 months to 1 year from hiring before starting an apprenticeship program.
Can This Program Lead to an Apprenticeship?
Yes. Many graduates go on to join AJAC’s formal apprenticeship programs or secure entry-level positions with local manufacturing employers.