Youth Apprentice Program
Do you or someone you know want to become part of the next generation of machinists? At A to Z Machine in Appleton, WI, we’re committed to helping you learn valuable skills as you gain experience toward a fulfilling career.
Our youth apprentice program is offered to local high school juniors and seniors who want to get a jump start on their careers. This is a paid apprenticeship. After completing the program, several apprentices will decide on different pathways into their careers, including attending secondary education or becoming full-time employees with A to Z Machine.
A to Z University
Our youth apprentice program is part of A to Z University, a hub for continual learning at our CNC machine shop. A to Z University houses several training plans and paths for all our team members—including youth apprentices. The content is constantly evolving and tailored to the requests of our employees.
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Q&A with Former Youth Apprentice Hunter Carey
CNC Machinist, Age 25
Please share about your journey as a youth apprentice (YA). When did it begin?
Hunter: My first interview was in April 2017, and I got a call in May saying I was accepted into the program. I started in early June, working full-time through the summer. During the school year, I worked from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. before heading to class.
I started in the maintenance department, learning how to fix machines and perform routine maintenance. Then, I moved to gaging and tooling, where I learned about machinists' different tools, including lathes and mills. I also learned how to use measuring equipment. From there, I trained with the YA instructor in manual machining. Toward the end of 2017, I began learning how to program and operate CNC machines.
Before starting, I had no idea what the difference was between a mill and a lathe. I’ve always been a hands-on learner and liked building things, but I had no prior knowledge of machining. This program gave me the chance to learn from the ground up.
What was the experience like?
Hunter: After I graduated, I went through the machine tool technical program at Fox Valley Tech. A to Z covered my tuition based on my grades. I worked full-time and went to school full-time, which was tough but worth it.
Once I got my degree, I knew I wanted to work with lathes and program parts my own way. I trained on nights with experienced lathe machinists and eventually moved to the day shift. I’ve been running a lathe ever since. A to Z really caters to your interests and helps you find your best fit.
What advice would you give to students considering the YA program?
Hunter: Be willing to challenge yourself and take lots of notes. In this industry, you’re going to make mistakes, but if you own them and learn from them, people will respect you.
What do you like about working at A to Z?
Hunter: The flexibility. They work with you on things like doctor’s appointments as long as you get your hours in. The people here are smart, and they’re willing to invest time and training to help advance your career.
Another great perk is the vested ownership program. Every year, you gain a percentage of ownership in the company, which means you get a free retirement account just by showing up and doing your job.
Q&A with Former Youth Apprentice Scott Zehner
CNC Lathe Machinist, Age 30
How did you get involved in the youth apprentice (YA) program?
Scott: I joined in the spring of 2012. I was already interested in machining and had a friend in the program, so I had an idea of what to expect. I signed up, went through the interview process, and was one of two students chosen from my high school. There were three apprentices total that year.
I worked from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and attended school from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. my entire senior year. My nights and weekends were free, which was awesome. I spent three months in the tool department, three in inspection and some time in assembly. The last three months, I worked on manual milling and lathe machines. Those early experiences built the foundation of my career.
What was your experience like?
Scott: I was in awe of the types of parts being made in a machine shop. The precision and tight tolerances were impressive. The program was well-structured and set up to help me succeed.
I was chosen for a formal apprenticeship and hired full-time. I worked nights for three to four years, which allowed me to progress faster since more opportunities were available. Eventually, I moved to the day shift and have been a lathe machinist ever since.
What advice would you give to students considering the YA program?
Scott: Ask lots of questions. Some kids pretend to know things so they don’t look bad, but the ones who ask questions and soak up knowledge are the ones who succeed. The goal is to make your work look effortless, but that only comes from years of effort and learning.
This program is also a great way to start your adult life financially. I had no student debt, bought a house at age 20 and was more comfortable financially than most of my peers who took the traditional school route. Also, be open to working night shifts—it helps you move up faster and keeps you from getting stuck in one spot.
What do you like about working at A to Z?
Scott: The flexibility of the schedule, great coworkers and strong benefits. We also have modern machinery and some of the best tooling in the industry.
I left for a year and came back because I realized A to Z is a fantastic work environment. We all get along really well. The mentorship I received here was invaluable. My mentors took the time to help me, making sure I fully understood things before leaving me on my own. Machining can be dangerous, so that hands-on guidance helped jumpstart my career. I’d recommend this program to anyone.
Learn More in Our Youth Apprentice Video
Join the Next Generation of Machinists
Earn as you learn at A to Z Machine in Appleton, where we’re committed to helping you gain valuable skills and experience for a fulfilling career.