Orion's July 2019 eNewsletter
 
 









Rany, Orion Manufacturing Program Graduate.

Rany  

"I was hired at Exotic Metals to do Mechanical Assembly work, but after two days I was promoted to operate a new machine!" Rany exclaimed. "Since I've been with Exotic Metals I've been promoted two more times!"

Speaking English as a second language (ESL) was a barrier to employment for Rany. While looking for work she found it difficult to move through the interview process and was losing hope. A family friend of an Orion staff member recommended that Rany check out Orion's paid training program. Rany attended a weekly tour of Orion's Manufacturing Training Program, and then signed up for training.

"I was nervous when I first started because I had never done manufacturing work before," Rany commented. "I didn't have any experience, but Orion gave that to me!"

Orion mentors understand that everyone learns in their own way. The mentors receive training to help them identify the best teaching methods for each individual. Experience had made Rany aware that being an ESL person was a barrier for her.

"The first time I began to work with my Orion mentor I said I didn't understand the instructions," Rany explained. "My mentor worked with me one-on-one and showed me how to do each step. When I began to understand that I could learn I wanted to cry with joy!"

While with Orion Rany received training in Clamp Block Assembly, Turret Press, Saws, and Mechanical Assembly. Once Rany had completed the training she worked with her Orion Job Developer, Lavada Kindle, who helped her locate a position with Exotic Metals. 

"Orion really helped me by preparing me for my job at Exotic Metals," Rany said. "I was afraid that I lacked the English skills I needed, and that I wouldn't be able to understand directions. But working with Orion proved  I could communicate, understand, and learn. Orion even helped me  to improve my English language skills by giving me more exposure. Orion changed everything for me. I want to thank everyone at Orion!"

Congratulations Rany!



 

 Max, Orion Manufacturing Training Program Participant.

Orion's Manufacturing Training Program allows participants to gain work experience while learning both technical and soft skills. Participants receive on-the-job training while working one-on-one with a mentor.

"Orion is really my first work experience," Max related. "I've learned what it takes to do a job, and how to meet expectations. I learned not to be afraid to ask for help. Whenever I found myself in a place where I didn't know what the next step was my mentor would take the time to show me the right way to do something."

While in the training program, Max has worked in Bonding, Laser Marking, Quality Assurance, CNC Machining and CNC Mills.

"The paid training at Orion has allowed me to become more independent. I've opened up a lot and have made friends. My next goal is to get my driver's license," Max said.

If you would like to learn more about Max, or if you would like to see his resume, please contact Lauren Campbell at 425.355.1253 x293 or email her at  lauren.campbell@orionworks.org.

A Day In the Life - Kevin Malin

Kevin Malin (right), working with Hae Mi (left), an Orion School to Work participant.

Orion's Employment Consultants are key members of the Orion team, providing services to our program participants. The Employment Consultants help to deliver Orion's mission to the community, by supporting participants in our training programs, our Community Inclusion services, and through School to Work services.

"Every day is different," Kevin explained. "There is no such thing as a typical day, which is what I love about this job."

Employment Consultants review each participant's needs and build a unique package of services for each person. Some participants need help with job development; some are with us for Community Inclusion services, and some for the School to Work program. Each has different requirements and needs. 

"A big part of what I do is build a schedule around each person's requirements," Kevin said. "I need to schedule with the individual, their parent or guardian, as well as a site supervisor if the activity involves a job or volunteering. It seems like everything is always in flux, but I find that to be an exciting challenge."

Employment Consultants help participants create resumes and build portfolios, while assisting them in getting access to the experiences they need. Information about each participant's progress is tracked through case notes and recorded into a database. 

Employment Consultants develop a pathway plan for each participant and will establish an annual plan that includes goals for each person. At the six-month mark, a progress report is created by the Employment Consultant which helps to reassess if goals need to modified or expanded. Good communication with all of the stakeholders including clients, parents or guardians, caseworkers, co-workers and Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)  or Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) counselors is essential.

"I understand that it is important for everyone to be a participating member of society, and I help those who need support in navigating any obstacles," Kevin noted. "I find it incredibly rewarding when I see someone I've been working with obtain their goals!"

Thank you Kevin!

Orion is Hiring!
Join Orion's award-winning team! Orion is a leading manufacturer and supplier for the aerospace industry. We offer competitive wages and 100% employer paid benefits, 401(k) matching, 11 paid holidays and a generous paid time off plan.

Orion is a nonprofit with a mission of helping those who need job training. We are looking for experienced individuals who have a desire to share their knowledge and make a difference in our community. 

Orion is a business with a purpose! For more information see our video and visit the careers page on our website:



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 $5 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.


Orion Announces a New Look
Orion is excited to share a glimpse of our new brand! Follow the links below to see our brand reveal video and read our press release.

Click here to view the video.

Click here to view the press release.

Orion's 2018 Annual Report
 
Orion's 2018 Annual Report is available for download!

http://www.orionworks.org/pdf/Orion-Annual-Report-2018.pdf

Industry 4.0 CAMPS Manufacturing Conference
  Heather McMillen speaking at the Industry 4.0 CAMPS Manufacturing Conference.

Heather McMillen, Orion's Continuous Improvement Lead, spoke at the Industry 4.0 2019 CAMPS Manufacturing Conference, on June 12th, at Bellevue's Meydenbauer Center.

The conference focused on leveraging technology and using data and analytics to improve performance. Heather presented real-life examples of using mobile apps to track inventories in real-time on the factory floor. 

Orion Riders Participate in SIDS Ride
  Pictured left to right: Laura Haman, Miley Molstad, Victor Molstad, Tricia Cleavelin, and Matt Foster.

Members of the Orion Riders are always on the lookout for ways that they can have a positive impact on our community.

The Orion Riders participated in the SIDS Ride on Saturday, June 22nd, helping to raise $5000 for the cause!

Strikes for Kids 2019
  Orion's Belters Bowling Team shown with Seattle Mariner Dee Gordon pictured fourth from left.

Orion's Belters Bowling Team attended the Strikes for Kids Charity Bowling Event at West Seattle Bowl on Saturday, June 22nd.

The event was hosted by Dee Gordon of the Seattle Mariners, and raised funds for a Kids Backpack Giveaway Program. 

See the link below to view photos from the event and learn more - Go M's!

http://www.strikesforkidsseattle.com/sixth-annual.html


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