EVERETT — In search of a short program that teaches basic manufacturing skills?
How about one that’s free?
Two nonprofits, Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeships and Bridgeways, have paired up to offer a free 10-week course to Snohomish County-area residents age 18 and older.
The in-person Snohomish County Manufacturing Academy will focus on manufacturing and aerospace careers. The program begins July 2.
Classes will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday at Bridgeways’ Everett manufacturing facility at 5801 23rd Drive W.
The course will cover shop math, blueprint reading, precision measurement and other essential skills. Participants will also have the chance to earn certifications in forklift operation, safety training, and CPR/first aid.
Students can also learn about career opportunities with local aerospace and advanced manufacturing companies.
The new program is funded by Snohomish County’s federal American Rescue Plan Act grant.
Nearly 20% of jobs in Snohomish County are tied to manufacturing, higher than any other county in the state and above the national average, according to the state Department of Labor.
Last year, one-third of manufacturers reported having open jobs they were struggling to fill, according to an Association of Washington Business survey.
Founded in 2008, Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeships (AJAC) partners with 325 businesses across Washington, including 62 in Snohomish County, to provide training and apprenticeships.
The nonprofit also offers apprenticeship programs for high school students and adults.
“Our employer members are thrilled to have a new pipeline of talent coming straight from their local community directly to the shop floor,” AJAC Executive Director Demetria “Lynn” Strickland said in a statement.
Jamco America, an Everett-based aircraft interiors company, regularly hires graduates of AJAC programs, said Cory Dennis, the company’s senior manager of machine operations, in a statement.
“The opportunity to take what they have learned within the program, utilize those skills in real life company settings … is tremendously helpful,” Dennis said.
For more information or to apply for the free 10-week program go to ajactraining.org/programs/manufacturing-academy/snohomish or tinyurl.com/32ssh6cf.
To learn about apprenticeships throughout the state or by county, log onto the Apprenticeship Registration Tracking System on the state Department of Labor and Industries website. The database lists all registered apprenticeship programs available in Washington, as well as the requirements for each program.
Janice Podsada: 425-339-3097; jpodsada@heraldnet.com;
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