Growing up in a dysfunctional family surrounded by drug addiction, Juanita lacked the education and guidance most people take for granted. With no support system, she found herself making poor choices early in life, leading to a prison sentence. It was there, amidst the uncertainty of her future, that she encountered various programs designed to help inmates rebuild their lives.
After nine months in prison, Juanita was introduced to AJAC’s pre-apprenticeship program, the Manufacturing Academy. She immediately recognized it as a lifeline—a chance to redefine her future. Reflecting on this pivotal moment, she acknowledges, “I don’t know where I would be if I hadn’t found some kind of direction inside prison before I got out.”
Upon being released from prison, Juanita quickly worked with AJAC’s Career Navigation team to help her find steady employment and an employer whom was willing to hire her and enroll her into apprenticeship.
The apprenticeship program offered by AJAC provided Juanita with much-needed structure. It kept her busy, set clear goals, and consistently challenged her to improve. Unlike many programs, AJAC required participants to maintain good grades, account for their work hours, and seek approval from their supervisors. This accountability was crucial for Juanita, helping her avoid the pitfalls of her past and giving her a routine she had never experienced before. “The whole program gave me a sense of direction,” she says.
The skills Juanita acquired through AJAC’s machinist apprenticeship have been transformative. She has learned to apply algebra and trigonometry to read blueprints, understand geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), and interpret computer engineering drawings. These skills have allowed her to excel in her role at Machining Technology Incorporated, where she accurately machines parts based on precise specifications.
One of the most significant lessons Juanita took from the AJAC program is the importance of persistence. She learned to keep trying, to never give up, and to believe in herself. This newfound determination drives her to build a successful career in manufacturing. “I want to make money, be successful, and always have a job,” she says confidently. With the skills she has gained, Juanita knows she will never have to worry about finances and being homeless again.
Juanita’s gratitude for the opportunities provided by AJAC is profound. She credits the program and the support of key individuals—Steve Peterman, Priscilla Johnson, and Ian O’Boyle—for helping her avoid returning to prison. Their guidance and belief in her potential have made a lasting impact on her life. “I’m grateful for everything,” she says. “Without them, my life wouldn’t be where it is today.”
Juanita Vickers’ journey from prison to precision machining is a testament to the power of second chances and the impact of dedicated apprenticeship programs like AJAC. Her story serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges, proving that with the right support and determination, it is possible to overcome even the most difficult circumstances and build a brighter future.
Juanita Vickers is a second-year AJAC machinist apprentice employed by Machining Technology Incorporated in Auburn, Washington.
