Tabitha Anderson
Kent-Meridian High School
Tabitha Anderson’s journey into mechatronics began with a moment at a college fair, where she saw a large 3D printer operated by a robotic arm. This experience ignited her passion for mechatronics. She enrolled as a Running Start student at Green River College, while she completed her senior year at Kent-Meridian High School. At Green River College, Tabitha learned to operate, maintain, and repair modern industrial machinery and equipment.
After graduating high school, she participated in the Core Plus Aerospace summer Student Development Program and completed her associate degree at Green River College. Tabitha was then hired by The Boeing Company as a Mechatronics Maintenance Technician in Seattle. She also studied computer programing while working full-time at Boeing through Boeing’s Learning Together program that pays for additional education.
Tabitha is now using her industry experience and knowledge to teach the next generation of mechatronics professionals. In January of 2025, Tabitha started a new role as a Mechatronics Maintenance instructor at Green River College.
Owen Archer
Pierce County Skills Center
Owen Archer is ready to start his career after high school graduation. Even though he doesn’t graduate until June, 2025, he has already accepted a job offer with the help of Core Plus Aerospace and the AJAC Youth Apprenticeship.
Owen’s journey began in his sophomore year at Eatonville High School when he learned about the advanced manufacturing class at Pierce County Skills Center. He enrolled in Core Plus Aerospace and participated in the summer manufacturing Student Development Program hosted by Boeing.
“I really enjoyed the summer Student Development Program because it’s a real-world experience that opens doors,” Owen said. “It’s a great opportunity.”
Shortly after completing the summer Student Development Program, Owen started his paid, AJAC Youth Apprenticeship at American Structures and Design. He has gained hands-on experience with CNC machines, assembly, paint, and more.
“I would 100 percent recommend the AJAC Youth Apprenticeship,” Owen said. “It has really opened my eyes and got my foot in the door at a young age.”
The combination of Core Plus Aerospace and AJAC has equipped Owen with both technical and soft skills, setting him up for a successful career. These experiences also provided valuable networking opportunities with industry professionals.
“For students looking to get into manufacturing, do as much networking as you can,” Owen said. “Get your name out there, get to know people, and take advantage of as many opportunities as possible to better yourself and your future.”
Owen will continue his career after high school at American Structures and Design, where he did his apprenticeship. His goal is to earn his journeyman’s card and continue advancing in the industry, with aspirations of becoming a manager or starting his own company.
Kai Grignon
Northwest Career and Technical Academy
Kai’s career path into advanced manufacturing started in a Core Plus Aerospace classroom at Northwest Career and Technical Academy. His instructor Jason Leander taught Kai skills like blueprint reading, riveting, safety, and teamwork.
This foundation opened the door to opportunities to further develop his skills after graduation, including the Community and Technical College Student Development Program hosted by Boeing. Kai completed the toolmaker program and then landed a role at Boeing’s factory in Everett as a toolmaker. Kai builds and maintains tools and structures that help assemble airplanes. He also does preventative maintenance and uses tools such as disc grinders and laser trackers.
Kai is interested in studying computer science through Boeing’s Learning Together Program and encourages students to explore career pathways while in high school.
“For students who are considering a manufacturing career, take in everything,” Kai said. “Try a whole bunch of different things and then once you find something that fits you, then go for it.”
Lovepreet Kaur
Sno-Isle Tech Skills Center
The Core Plus Aerospace class at Sno-Isle TECH Skills Center helped launch Lovepreet Kaur’s career in advanced manufacturing.
“My Core Plus Aerospace instructor, Kareen Vincent’s, industry expertise and enthusiasm made complex aerospace manufacturing concepts easy to grasp, bridging the gap between theory and practice,” said Lovepreet. “I acquired the technical know-how and people skills to be successful in the field.”
Lovepreet completed the Core Plus Aerospace summer Student Development Program where she learned skills like assembly and quality control that later helped her start a career at Boeing. After graduating high school, she was hired by Boeing as a wire assembler for the 767 program in Everett, where she was responsible for assembling and routing wiring systems. Two years later, Lovepreet was promoted to her current role as a manager in the 777/777X program. Lovepreet used the leadership skills she gained in her Core Plus Aerospace class daily as she reviews production schedules, leads team meetings, and ensures her team has the resources and support they need to succeed.
Lovepreet continues to build her skills through Boeing training programs on topics like leadership and plans to pursue a PhD in aeronautical science. Her career goal is to be an engineer at Boeing. And she’s graduating with her bachelor’s degree in project management and Aeronautical Science Engineering from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University this May.
“For students exploring a career in manufacturing, I recommend focusing on both technical skills and soft skills,” Lovepreet said. “Also, be patient and persistent. Starting in an entry-level position can provide experience and insights that will help you in the long run.”
