Orion’s mission is to help those who have barriers to employment find living wage jobs in the community. We do this through our paid Manufacturing Training Program, which includes on-the-job training while working one-on-one with a mentor. When program participants complete the training, they work with Orion’s Job Developers to locate a good job with an area employer.
Pressco, founded in 1965, is a family owned and operated aerospace manufacturer located in Sumner. Sean McHugh, Pressco’s President explained, “We started manufacturing springs years ago, and expanded into machined parts, sheet metal and assembly work. As a third generation business we work hard to maintain a family atmosphere.”
Orion provides trained workers at no charge to the employers. Over the years, Pressco has recognized Orion as a good source for candidates for their open positions. Todd Petchnick, Pressco’s Vice President said, “99% of the time we turn to Orion first for our hiring needs. Our work statements touch on many different areas in manufacturing, and we are always looking for a wide variety of skills. Orion graduates are familiar with the manufacturing environment and have received training in many different areas and on a variety of machines.”
Before Orion, I had no real job experience. At Orion I gained the skills I needed to join the work force.
– Nikki / Graduate
Pressco hired their first Orion graduate, Virgilio, in 2015. Virgilio has proven to be a key staff member doing much of the needed behind the scenes work. Sean said, “Virgilio was instrumental in helping us with a smooth relocation from Kent to Sumner. The materials handling and ERP training he received in Orion’s planning department has been highly valuable.”
Todd added that many Orion graduates have the ability to cross train in several areas saying, “Dale is a good example of the flexibility we get with Orion’s program graduates. Dale has worked in mills and part mark and has even filled in on CNC work.”
Many of Pressco’s current staff who are Orion graduates shared that gaining the skills they needed and finding a job has made a positive impact on their lives.
Dale said, “With a good job there is no limit to what you can do.”
Nikki related, “Before Orion, I had no real job experience. At Orion I gained the skills I needed to join the work force.”
Crystal stated, “I found that I am capable of learning, and with that I realized that I can do anything.”
Charles exclaimed, “Orion helped me get my first real job here at Pressco!”
Rick said, “The Blueprint reading classes I took at Orion really prepared me. I was able to jump right into the work here at Pressco.”
Cindy summed up her experience saying, “Orion prepared me with the skills I needed at Pressco. I walked in and went to work. I love my job here!”
Orion and Pressco have a great working relationship with nearly a quarter of Pressco’s staff being former Orion training program graduates. Orion is looking forward to continuing to partner with Pressco and help with their hiring needs.
Congratulations to all of our former graduates – Keep up the good work!
