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A couple of letters can make a big difference in meaning – like the difference in ‘metrology’ and ‘meteorology.’ 

“A lot of people hear metrology and think it’s about meteorology and weather,” Jarrod Hankins said. “But in reality, it’s the science of measurement.” 

In defense manufacturing, metrology inspectors are the last safeguard as they inspect parts before they leave the shop floor to be placed miles under water on a submarine, under thousands of pounds of pressure.

When their four-year degrees weren't enough to secure employment in today's competitive job market, Gunnar Olsen and Alexander Scott enrolled in Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) to stand out to employers. 

Olsen was fresh out of college with a physics degree, when his job search hit an unexpected obstacle: Employers wanted industry experience he didn't have. When he learned about ATDM's free, fast-track, four-month program leading to a career in defense manufacturing, the path forward became clear.

Jonah Rossi’s path through the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program proves that passion and a strong educational foundation can launch a rewarding career. Now at Pegasus Steel, Rossi’s journey in quality control and metrology has been filled with opportunities and growth thanks to his training through ATDM.

Specialized training programs are becoming essential for companies seeking skilled talent in the submarine industrial base. Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) has become a significant resource for employers in the defense sector, including Trident Refit Facility, Bangor (TRFB), in Silverdale, Washington. 

The shortage of skilled labor continues to present a significant challenge for the marine industrial base (MIB). ATDM has emerged as a vital solution, enabling companies like Ellwood National Forge to rapidly upskill employees and meet the growing demand for precision manufacturing. 

As a premier steel component supplier working to meet various needs in the defense industry, Ellwood National Forge needed to address the labor gap to continue to support its operations. In 2022, it approached ATDM for solutions. 

In the world of manufacturing, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining is a game-changer, blending the precision of computers with the art of manual machining. It’s essentially manual machine work done through a computer environment. Instead of relying on manual control, CNC machines automate the process, using computer programs to craft parts with high precision.

Liz Beasley was working at a bookstore in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia when she realized she wanted to pivot her career to secure a better future for her family. Encouraged by her husband, Beasley applied for a machining apprenticeship at Norfolk Naval Shipyard—a decision that, at first, felt intimidating. Despite her doubts, she took the leap. Beasley began her apprenticeship in February 2021, just as the world was recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.

ATDM hosted another successful and insightful career fair connecting our cohorts to prospective employers. Approximately 200 students attended, eager to explore career opportunities with a diverse group of companies from across the country. The event drew 40 employers from various sectors, all looking to connect with the skilled soon-to-be graduates of ATDM.

And it was not the first time many of these companies had come to ATDM to recruit new talent.

There is a growing need for qualified workers in skilled trades such as welding and the industry is responding with competitive pay, job security and the opportunity to build a fulfilling career path. Women are stepping up to fill this gap and are discovering the advantages of this profession. Within the past seven years, the number of women working in skilled trades has increased by nearly one-third. In 2021, there were more than 314,000 tradeswomen in the U.S.