The National Association of Manufacturers said , “ Over the next decade , four million manufacturing jobs will be needed , and 2.1 million will likely go unfilled if we do not inspire more people to pursue modern manufacturing careers .” In early 2022 , over 800,000 jobs were going unfilled nationally . The United States has long known that it has a perception problem with manufacturing , but organizations are working tirelessly to put a new face on manufacturing and fill jobs .
AJAC , whose tagline is “ Beyond Aerospace ,” is one such non-profit whose tagline could also be “ people with a passion for manufacturing training ” or “ get people into apprenticeships and fill jobs .” The organization is working to transform many facets of Washington state ’ s manufacturing landscape , from perception to reality , through apprenticeships and degree-based learning .
24 NORTHWEST AEROSPACE NEWS
The Purpose
Started in 2008 as the Aerospace Joint Apprenticeship Committee ( AJAC ), the organization was state funded to “ skill up the aerospace and advanced manufacturing workforce through registered apprenticeship .” Now known simply as AJAC , they have developed an illustrious program serving 10 industries beyond aerospace and defense :
1 . |
Automation and machinery |
2 . |
Space |
3 . |
Computer electronics |
4 . |
Chemicals and plastics |
5 . |
Medical |
6 . |
Clean energy |
7 . |
Food and beverage |
8 . |
Transportation and logistics |
9 . |
Wood and paper |
10 . Maritime |