Orion's August 2017 eNewsletter
 
 







Jennifer working at Orion Industries, Auburn.
 
Jennifer    

Jennifer spends as much of her free time as possible outdoors. She enjoys taking her children to parks in the area, and fishing local rivers and lakes with her father. She is looking forward to camping with her family once her children are a little older.

Referred by the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), Jennifer knew that Orion's paid training program would allow her to gain the skills she needed. Her career in healthcare was lacking stability, and she needed to be able to work more hours consistently. She said, "Without the Orion training program I wouldn't have gained the necessary aerospace manufacturing experience that would allow me to get my foot in the door. DVR and Orion opened that door." 
Jennifer working in Shipping & Receiving.
While in the Orion training program, Jennifer worked with her mentors, and with a little patience and guidance, she was able to make a breakthrough, after which she was surprised by how fast she caught on to new challenges. Jennifer exclaimed, "I tend to get nervous when talking with new people, and the Orion staff reassured me that there is no reason to be nervous. I learned that I am capable of many things that I had never done!"

At the conclusion of Jennifer's training program she took an entry level position at AIM Aerospace Inc., and then worked at Primus until her line was shut down in January of 2017. During her job search, an Inventory Control Clerk position opened up at Orion, which was a perfect fit for her. Jennifer said, "There are a few mentors here that have really gone the extra mile for me, and I am forever grateful to have had the chance to not only work with them, but also to learn from them. They made my transition from program participant to staff seamless."

Jennifer plans to continue learning and do what she can to become more valuable to Orion. She would like to contribute and give back by one day becoming a mentor herself. Jennifer said, "It's important to be patient and open minded; otherwise, you might miss an opportunity. At Orion I have gained skills that have increased my worth. And now I'm a home owner!" 

Congratulations Jennifer!



 

 Krystal at work in Orion's Auburn Manufacturing Training Program.
 
Krystal  was born and raised right here in Auburn, Washington. When asked what she likes to do she replied, "I like to go camping, and 4-wheeling and getting muddy with my 5 & 7 year olds." She likes spending time with her grandmothers, who are still in the area, as well. 

When Krystal stepped through the doors of Orion she came with an open mind and a ready to work and learn attitude. After all, Orion was her first job. She wanted to soak up as much information as she could. "And once I got in the door," Krystal said thoughtfully, "I felt like I was at home with everyone."

Krystal found out about Orion through numerous friends that had been through the program. "For the longest time, I was told I would never be able to work, or take care of myself and my children, but I'm proving them wrong," she beamed. "I never thought I would have this type of life for myself, or my kids. I have learned that I am capable - and I've surprised myself. I was going to give up the first week, but then I made it through. I told myself 'Oh my gosh, I can do something!'"

"I've learned that I can be patient with all types of people," continued Krystal. "And, I'm reliable and can stick anything out that I put my mind to."

"Krystal definitely came to Orion with trepidation but she has given 100% of herself in making it work," said Dru Fleming, Job Developer. "In each area she has been assigned to, she has excelled far beyond expectations. She will be an amazing asset to any employer."

When asked what advice she would give to someone just coming into the program, Krystal didn't hesitate. "Remain teachable. Remain with an open mind. Give it your all and make an honest effort. And if you're struggling, let someone know!"

Krystal is looking for an employer that has an uplifting and encouraging environment, similar to what is provided at Orion. Krystal is looking to start a career in aerospace manufacturing, and has experience in mechanical assembly, part mark, mills and finish cell.  She was also selected as Orion's Worker of the Month in June, and is job ready. 

If you are interested in learning more about Krystal or would like to see her resume, call  Dru Fleming at 253-661-7805 or email her at  dru.fleming@orionworks.org.


Orion classes available!

Orion contracts with companies around the King and Pierce County area to provide classes, such as blueprint reading. Companies can send their staff to Orion for classes at our facility, or we can send our instructors on-site. If you're interested in finding out more about how this can benefit your staff, please contact Orion's Training Program Manager, Cynthia Kim, at 253-661-7805.

 


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.


Ed Routt Named AJAC Machinist Outstanding Apprentice 

Pictured from left to right are Demetria "Lynn" Strickland, AJAC Executive Director, Ed Routt, and Pat Thurman.
 
Congratulations to Orion staff member Ed Routt, who was selected by the Aerospace Joint Apprenticeship Committee (AJAC) as their 2017 AJAC Machinist Outstanding Apprentice. Ed was presented with the award at a ceremony at the Museum of Flight. 

To learn more about AJAC visit their website:

http://www.ajactraining.org/


Orion Cycling Club Take Part in
2017 Seattle to Portland Bike Ride

  Pictured at dawn prior to the start, from left to right: Shawn Christensen, Rob Price, Ashley Smith, Tom Brosius, Danny Larson, Dru Fleming, Tricia Cleavelin,  and Cynthia Kim.  

Members of the Orion Cycling Club participated in the Seattle to Portland bike ride on July 15th, 2017. 

Thousands of cyclists completed the 203 mile ride. The youngest cyclist was seven years old, and the oldest was 89.

For more information about the event and to learn about the route follow the link below:



Orion Riders Participate in Children's Ride 22

Pictured from left to right: Miley Molstad, Victor Molstad, Jerry DeBruler, Tracy DeBruler, Matt Foster and Jason Person. 
 

Members of the Orion Riders participated in the Children's Ride 22 event on Sunday, July 16. The Orion Riders joined hundreds of area motorcycle enthusiasts in supporting Seattle Children's Hospital.

To learn more about this event, and to learn how you can also support Seattle Children's Hospital, please visit the website below:



Orion's Belters Bowling Team at Strikes for Kids

  Pictured from left to right: Rodney Goodwin, Seattle Seahawks Offensive Tackle George Fant (#74), Heather McMillen, Matt Foster, Tanya Minerich, Mandi Magers, Anne Bosse (front) and Victor Molstad .  

Orion's Belters Bowling Team participated in the Strikes for Kids Charity Bowling Tournament held at West Seattle Bowl on Sunday, July 23rd. 

The Event was hosted by Seattle Seahawks players, including #74 Offensive Tackle George Fant. The event benefitted the Back 2 School Bonanza which provides backpacks filled with school supplies to area students. 

To learn more and find out how you can add your support see the link: 



Orion links
 
Orion Industries, Auburn
1590 A Street NE
Auburn, WA 98002
Orion Industries, Mukilteo
13008 Beverly Park Rd
Mukilteo, WA 98275