Orion's February 2018 eNewsletter
 
 








Kendra, Orion training program graduate.
Kendra     

Kendra heard about the training programs available at Orion's Auburn location through a friend, who was coming for a tour. Kendra decided to come along and take the tour also. She initially thought that she would prefer Orion's Office Skills & Customer Service Training program, but instead opted to enter Orion's Manufacturing Training program.

Working in a manufacturing environment was completely outside of Kendra's comfort zone; s he had never done anything like Orion's paid training program before. She is glad that she tried the manufacturing training, and thinks that it was the right decision for her. Kendra exclaimed, "I learned I am more capable than I have given myself credit for! Orion showed me that I can do whatever I want as long as 
I work hard, and that I have more strength than I realized." 

Starting with a simple task was the key to letting Kendra build confidence. Mistie, Kendra's mentor in the Finish Line, was able to add more complex tasks over time. Kendra said, "I know now that I can perform. I know that I can do a job and work under pressure. I have no fear when trying something new."

After graduating from Orion's training program, Kendra returned to a position in child care at the Rainbow School with a new confidence and improved soft skills that she learned at Orion. Kendra said, "I know now that everything works out if I take a deep breath, apply consistency, structure, and stick to a schedule. It's like that quote, 'If you think you can, or think you can't, you're right,' and now I know I can!"

Congratulations Kendra!



 

 Larry working on Orion's Auburn production floor.
 
Larry  has a love for the great outdoors, preferring to get his exercise through hiking, bike riding, fishing and other outdoor activities. He enjoyed working outdoors as well, and has experience as a field laborer in Cle Elum, in Central Washington. He opted to relocate to Western Washington in search of more job opportunities.

He discovered Orion when he attended a presentation made by Orion staff at the WorkSource offices in downtown Seattle. After visiting Orion's Auburn location and taking a tour of the Manufacturing Training Program, he decided that Orion's paid training program would be a great way for him to gain some valuable experience. 
Larry working in Manufacturing.
While in the training program, Larry has worked in the Blanking Press, Saws, and Finish Cells. His mentors have all noted his positive progression. Mistie, Larry's mentor in the Finish Cell, said, "Larry is great to work with! He is grateful and enthusiastic and always shows up ready to work!"  

The hands-on experience offered through Orion's training has worked well for Larry, and he has proven to be a quick study. He has benefitted from being able to work one-on-one with his mentors.  "I like to learn from experienced people,"  Larry explained,  "I don't like to make mistakes, but if I do, my mentors have shown me how to learn from it."

Larry is grateful to be able to learn the skills he needs to progress forward, saying, "I look at Orion as a huge learning opportunity. My primary goal is to improve myself and earn a better life. I'm thankful for the opportunity that Orion has given me, and I don't know where I'd be without their help. Orion gave me the chance to increase my capabilities and further my experience, giving me a real shot at improving my life."

Larry is looking for an opportunity to progress. His desire is to get his foot in the door, and to continue to learn and grow, in the manufacturing industry. If you would like to learn more about Larry, or if you would like to see his resume, please contact Tamie Clark at 253-661-7805 x274 or email her at tamie.clark@orionworks.org.

Orion partnering with United Way's Free Tax Campaign


Orion and United Way are partnering once again for United Way's Free Tax Preparation Campaign! Anyone who earned less than $66,000 in 2017 is eligible for this FREE service. The Free Tax Preparation Campaign is part of a community-wide effort to help 50,000 people escape poverty by 2020.

Orion's site will remain open to provide Free Tax Preparation until Wednesday, April 18th.

Orion Industries 
1590 A Street NE
Auburn, WA 98002

Site schedule 
Mon: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Wed: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sat: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

To locate other sites near you, or if you have questions about eligibility or what documents to bring, visit United Way's website at:


Program tours are available!

Orion Industries, Auburn, currently has openings available in all of our training programs:
If you are working with someone who would benefit from this training program, please have them attend our weekly tour - Monday at 9am!
  • Our Office Skills & Customer Service Program offers students exposure to computer training, customer service training and keyboarding / 10-key skills training. It utilizes a self-directed model, in a small classroom setting, with instructor support. Each Friday, interactive group customer service discussions are led by the instructor. Students are offered a daily stipend of $10 for class attendance.
Orion has multiple open spots for direct job placement support services to individuals not in our training programs. If you are interested in direct job placement services, please contact a Job Developer at 253-661-7805.


Governor Inslee Visits Orion

Gov. Inslee tours Orion's Auburn location. Pictured from left to right: Tom Brosius, Gov. Inslee, and John Theisen. Photo courtesy of Layne Norris.
Governor Jay Inslee paid a visit to Orion's Auburn location on Wednesday, January 31st. Gov. Inslee was able to take a tour of Orion's operations while hearing about our mission of providing training opportunities to those who have barriers to employment. 

Gov. Inslee was able to gain firsthand knowledge of the positive impact that Orion has on the community, and see how Orion contributes to Washington State's economy.
2017 Program Participant of the Year

Thy receiving the 2017 Program Participant of the Year Award.
 
Thy was selected as the 2017 Program Participant of Year from Orion's Mukilteo location.

Congratulations Thy!
Orion Joins the Mug Club

Matt McAllister showing off the latest addition to the Mug Club.
Orion has joined 100.7 FM The Wolf's Mug Club! Thanks Matt McAllister, and everyone at 100.7 FM Seattle Wolf. 

Follow the link below to view Mug Club gallery:
 
Women of Washington State in Aerospace

Women of Washington State in Aerospace at the Canadian consulate.
 
Orion staff members Tracy DeBruler, Laura Haman, and Liz Hickman, attended a meeting of the Women of Washington State in Aerospace on January 17th. The event, held at the Canadian consulate, was a great networking opportunity!

Golden Scooter

Pictured from left to right: Mary Valle, Aarron Fahrenkrug, Miley Molstad, Tricia Cleavelin, Jason Person, John Theisen, Nate Thomas, Victor Molstad and Leigh Cooper.
 
The Orion Riders presented their 2017 Golden Scooter Award to Tricia Cleavelin in recognition of her commitment to the various charitable events that the Riders participate in through the year.

The award is given out annually to the Rider who best exhibits each of the hallmarks of what makes the Orion Riders outstanding ambassadors to our community. 

Tricia deserves both our congratulations and thanks!


Orion Links
 
Click on the links below to visit Orion's division websites:     
Orion Industries, Auburn
1590 A Street NE
Auburn, WA 98002
Orion Industries, Mukilteo
13008 Beverly Park Rd
Mukilteo, WA 98275