business backgrounder | education and workforce
AMTEC , as it ’ s known , is marking 10 years since it first opened its doors in a former big box store . After expanding in 2016 it now has 54,000 square feet of high-tech training space . Students learn mechatronics , laser welding , machining and much more .
For Anderson , that means training on equipment like a CNC-operated water jet , where earlier this year he could be seen designing and cutting stainless steel medallions that he etched out to give to his partners in a drum corps .
The water at 50 psi cuts easily through the tenth-inch thick steel .
“ This thing just goes right through it . Not quite like butter . But it ’ s like foam rubber , baby ,” said his instructor , Tim Melcher , who adds that he loves to see his students getting their confidence as they learn skills that are in high demand .
“ You see people hitting their stride ,” Melcher told Washington Business during a tour in May . “ Everything is coming together .”
ready for the future
The vast AMTEC facility is full of bustle and activity . Students are welding , using cutting torches , programming robots , laying out strips of material to create carbon fiber , and more .
Everett Community College , or EvCC , also uses the AMTEC facility as a way to introduce K-12 students to manufacturing . During a recent three-day tour , they had more than 500 students . The experience culminates with a hands-on manufacturing project , like a phone stand or a clock . Years later , they ’ ll have students come back and it ’ s that project that they remember .
The program is powered by community business partners , including dozens of local manufacturing firms . Employers such as Boeing , Janicki Industries , Goodwill Youth Aerospace and Nichols Bros . boat builders are on hand to present
Top : Chris Loonstyn sets up programs for an AMTEC welding robot at Everett Community College . Looking to change careers in his 30s , he has a broad view of the possibilities opened by his EvCC education , including robotics and composites as he looks toward a welding career that he sees advancing into management and mechanical engineering . Bottom : Robert White is a mechatronics instructor at Everett Community College .
“ You need zero experience or exposure to robotics or any of this . I will meet you where you ’ re at .”
- AMTEC mechatronics instructor Robert White
46 association of washington business