Why Choose a Career in Aerospace and Manufacturing?
In Washington State, 132,500 people have a good paying career in aerospace manufacturing. Over the next five years, the state will need 7,200 additional aerospace workers to build thousands of new products, such as airplanes, to replace a large number of aerospace workers who are retiring soon and to keep up with new technology.
This booming industry provides steady jobs with high-paying wages to people looking for a long-term career.
Apprenticeship, the Way to a Long-Term Career in Aerospace and Manufacturing
If you’re looking for a long-term career and enjoy working with tools and high-tech machinery, then a profession in aerospace and advanced manufacturing in Washington State may be what you’re looking for, and apprenticeship is the way to get there. Apprenticeship programs provide on-the-job training to anyone new to the workforce or to individuals looking to upgrade their current skills or already working as a machinist, aircraft mechanic, etc. As an apprentice, you work at a full-time job while training with a mentor and earning wages + benefits. In addition, you attend classes typically one night a week at a local community or technical college to learn the theory behind the training.
Within two to four years, you earn a Journey-Level Certificate, enabling you to work anywhere in the U.S. as a master trades person. You could also earn credit towards an associate’s degree that could turn into a four-year degree. A career in aerospace and advanced manufacturing is an opportunity for women and men like you, to earn family wage jobs and advance in your career to become a lead, foreman, supervisor, etc.
Aerospace and Advanced Manufacturing Careers You Can Train for with Apprenticeship
As an aerospace and advanced manufacturing apprentice, you can become a skilled machinist, aircraft mechanic (airframe), precision metal fabricator , tool & die makeror an industrial maintenance mechanic! Aerospace Joint Apprenticeship Committee (AJAC) programs are located across Washington State.
Earn a Living Wage with Apprenticeship
The beginning salary for an apprentice is 60% the salary of a fully trained (Journey-Level) worker who has completed their on-the-job training and are master tradespeople. Aerospace and advanced manufacturing apprentices receive pay increases as they learn and perform more complex tasks proficiently. Check out how much you could earn by occupation. Wage rates are dependent on occupation, employer and geographic location.
Traits of a Good Apprentice
You should be detail-oriented, a problem-solver, capable of working independently and as part of a team, and have a good work ethic.
Get Started Now!
Think you got what it takes to launch your career in aerospace and advanced manufacturing? Check your resume for the required skills and qualifications.