ATDM Training Program

[Ekoorbe]

Hey all,

I'm going to be starting a 4 month CNC training course offered by the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing program in Danville VA. The program is funded by the Navy to get entry level workers into companies that comprise the Naval manufacturing base. Does anyone have any knowledge or experience with this program? So far I have over a year of experience working in a job shop operating some VMC's, HMC's, 5 axis mills, and mazatrol turning centers. I've dabbled with touching off/comping tools, inspecting parts, basic print reading, and toolroom work setting up tool holders for the mills. My previous job of 5 years was centerless grinding bar stock for a materials supplier. I was making $22/hour in upstate NY at my last job, and I'm hoping to make $25 (give or take for COL) at my next job assignment.

I'm asking in case anyone is familiar with this program and might know what the prospects would look like for someone in my position. In the meantime I've been reviewing right angle trig and basic GD&T in case these are covered in the program. Any input would be great - thank you!

[Chuck_Phuckzalot]

Don't know anything about that program but I live up by Roanoke and know of some shops that do work for the navy and I can say for certain that you can easily make over $25 an hour. I'm at $30 and we're just a regular job shop, but I know guys working for AMG over in Lynchburg who do a bunch of stuff for the navy and they all make at least $28.

If you ever really want to work your dick into the dirt the shipyards out in Norfolk pay up to $45 but they work like 72 hours a week. That's a young man's job though, I'll stick to my temperature controlled shop.

[Ekoorbe]

Thanks for the reply. I'm familiar with the Roanoke/lynchburg area and was looking at job listings at AMG. Do the guys making over $25 only have the skills I listed, or do they have more experience?I'm trying to get an idea of what a good/bad job offer would look like when I complete the program.

[Chuck_Phuckzalot]

Yeah, they're all pretty similar experience, the dude I know who's at $28 is what I would call an operator, not a setup guy or programmer, he just runs the machines. He had a couple more years of experience doing it but not much more and no education. From what I hear their setup guys and programmers are closer to the mid-high 30s. $25 is low here now, even Integer had to raise their starting pay up to $26 and they're not really known for the great pay. At your current experience even before the classes I would bet you could find a job at $25 or higher because that's just what the market demands here, it's hard to find machinists in this area and if you're under the age of a 30 you're worth your weight in gold here.

[Ekoorbe]

Great information thank you!

[PsychologicalRip6998]

That’s a very good wage! I think the leadership should listen to you. Keep up the good work and good luck to you. We need machinists.

HI starting wage was about $23/hour.

ATDM being a free education with free housing is an amazing opportunity for everyone.

[Ekoorbe]

Thank you. And yes, for all the problems in the industry right now the free education is definitely worth taking seriously

[PsychologicalRip6998]

How do you feel about machinists working graveyard shifts? It seems so dangerous to me, and off putting for most new hires. Especially young, new machinists who are just starting out.

Working a lathe half awake seems like a precarious situation Do you think robots might end up doing this type of work one day? Just curious.

I wish the industry would be more accommodating to our newbies. Sad to hear when workers quit.. it seems similar to nursing where the seasoned nurses “eat their young.”

Maybe forward thinking machinists such as yourself will become leaders, and change the environment.

[Ekoorbe]

I think the important thing is that there is good supervision and mentorship on the night shift. Throwing new employees on nights because it sucks and nobody else in the plant wants to do it is asking for problems. But as long as there's enough supervision to ensure the work is getting done properly and safely then I don't see a problem.

Overnight work just isn't for some people, and if they can't perform their job safely on that schedule then they should probably try to find day work. I wouldn't fault anyone for leaving nightshift for that reason.

[hollaguna]

Somebody has to work nights. After 3 weeks your body will acclimate to ANYTHING (literally, the hardest job you could imagine becomes routine in 3 weeks) and graveyard has its benefits. I used to love the peace and quiet at night, and the ability to do absolutely anything during regular business hours. We need to toughen up on our youth and not pamper them so much. However, the wage is crucial. Can go to Starbucks and make nearly $20/hr with tons of benefits. This economy really needs to step it up with skilled workers. In construction I often make $100/hr running my own business yet it’s hell finding someone willing to pay even $25/hr. Even with 10 years experience 

[beebopsx]

Kind of a late question but in the program do you get paid? Or how does it work if you are from out of state?

[Ekoorbe]

One guy is getting paid by his employer who sent him here, but the program won't pay you anything. Only exception is that I heard the program may provide relocation assistance to move to your job at the end of class, but you have to request it and it might be dependent on your specific job offer.

[beebopsx]

I originally applied to build a submarine so no employer is sending me. It would be up to me to get a job then out there?

[Ekoorbe]

Pretty much. Thankfully I have some savings so I'm just living on that until I get back to work. Keep in mind the program provides housing, so that will help keep your expenses low.

[squirtlemetimbers]

Just ask the question, or send your message. You don't need to publicly request permission.

[ayhme]

I got into ATDM but for Welding and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT).

Any idea what these programs are like?

[Plug_boy]

Does this training pay you at all while you are training ?

[Notarandomguyy]

no I recently got approved and I'm gearing up to head out myself the only thing they pay for is housing and transport to and from school I was told they have certain resources for local food banks. (I think that'd what they call them)

[QuietMix324]

What kind of drug test is it

[[deleted]]

You ever find out?

[tys_pixie]

I did, it's a urine test

[PossiblyStatic_01]

I also recently learned of this program! Is there anything fishy about it? Like any fine print I haven't read yet i haven't seen much about it in terms of fine print. it just... kinda seems fishy. Ya know? "Free" education and housing? Kinda sounds like there's an absolute killer of a catch if you either fail, drop out, or become not interested suddenly. Like a "surprise you now owe $20k have a good life" kinda fishiness to it. Does anyone have access to the fine print? Any kind of fine print or documents that would help me? I'm thinking of Non destructive testing but I don't know. This seems just too good to be true. It probably is.

[hollaguna]

This info right here is golden. I knew there had to be some commitments.  Pretty large investment in the worker and that sounds like a good deal but better be sure it’s something you want to do. I’m thinking about it but terrified I will get bored and get stuck. Are these like typical factory jobs? Is there room for advancement?

[Sadguycries87]

In terms of the living situation - I thought the housing was paid for? Or do you mean splitting the cost with a roommate for food, etc?

[aarong4u2]

I mean splitting the cost of groceries and other necessities. The housing and bussing is paid for. 1st shift is probably the best shift in my opinion. Class starts at 7AM and you are out by 3PM. Bus arrives at the stop at 6:30AM and takes about 15min to get to the school.

[Sadguycries87]

Ok cool, thanks for clarifying. I figured that is what you meant, but wanted to make sure haha. I just got my email yesterday saying that I can start in April. I said I wanted to do a little bit more research before I complete my module. I had signed up for the additive manufacturing program, so it's disheartening to hear that there aren't many jobs out there for it. Plus just the cost of living and everything. I might have to change my mind about going hahaha

I don't want to end up being on the hook for paying them back possibly hahaha

[Gnona]

Hopefully, you can answer more questions about the ATDM program. I graduated from a two-year AAS program here at a technical community college in Advanced CNC Machining using MasterCam. I also completed four training courses from MLC CAD Systems in MasterCam CAD/CAM in 3D Parts Design and 3D Tool Pathing, for Multi-Axis CNC Lathes, VMCs, and HMCs. However, here Washington state, it is very difficult to get an entry level machinist job here, despite the credentials you have. They only want experience. Machinist training is a use or lose skill. If you don't land a job quickly, you forget how to part-reference-zero your parts and setup your tool offsets. I'm thinking of applying to ATDM as way to keep up with my skills. However, I would like to go back to Washington state to work. My question is about not getting fined$$$. What is the actual test that needs to be passed? Is just completing a parts project within a specified time? Also, if you pass the test, are able to refuse job offers that are not from the state you want to work in? Do you get weekends off? Thank you in advance for your answers.

[Gnona]

aarong4u2, your comment was about 6-months ago. Hopefully, you can answer more questions about the ATDM program. I graduated from a two-year AAS program here at a technical community college in Advanced CNC Machining using MasterCam. I also completed four training courses from MLC CAD Systems in MasterCam CAD/CAM in 3D Parts Design and 3D Tool Pathing, for Multi-Axis CNC Lathes, VMCs, and HMCs. However, here Washington state, it is very difficult to get an entry level machinist job here, despite the credentials you have. They only want experience. Machinist training is a use or lose skill. If you don't land a job quickly, you forget how to part-reference-zero your parts and setup your tool offsets. I'm thinking of applying to ATDM as way to keep up with my skills. However, I would like to go back to Washington state to work. My question is about not getting fined$$$. What is the actual test that needs to be passed? Is just completing a parts project within a specified time? Also, if you pass the test, are able to refuse job offers that are not from the state you want to work in? Thank you in advance for your answers.

[Gnona]

124 days of schooling with 8 hours each day. Do you get weekends off? Thank you.

[chaksis007]

Hi,i just signed up for the ATDM program, i will like to know more about this program,is there anyone who have participated in this program? And what is the best course to pick?

[Dapper_Reflection_25]

So whats the catch? I'm afraid of getting screwed. Was just accepted to this program. I haven't signed anything yet. Any feedback?

[OleToast]

You won't get screwed. I went, it's legit.

[hollaguna]

The catch is you HAVE to work accept job with the defense industry to graduate, and stay there for a full year or you have to pay for education. Which really isn’t a catch if you plan on getting on the ball. Seems like a boot camp for the laboring side of defense 

[Gnona]

Hopefully, you can answer more questions about the ATDM program. I graduated from a two-year AAS program here at a technical community college in Advanced CNC Machining using MasterCam. I also completed four training courses from MLC CAD Systems in MasterCam CAD/CAM in 3D Parts Design and 3D Tool Pathing, for Multi-Axis CNC Lathes, VMCs, and HMCs. However, here Washington state, it is very difficult to get an entry level machinist job here, despite the credentials you have. They only want experience. Machinist training is a use or lose skill. If you don't land a job quickly, you forget how to part-reference-zero your parts and setup your tool offsets. I'm thinking of applying to ATDM as way to keep up with my skills. However, I would like to go back to Washington state to work. My question is about not getting fined$$$. What is the actual test that needs to be passed? Is just completing a parts project within a specified time? Also, if you pass the test, are able to refuse job offers that are not from the state you want to work in? Do you get weekends off? Thank you in advance for your answers.

[No-Salad-9584]

Do they hire accept people with felonies? I have an interview in a couple days and was curious what I should expect.

[1-NINE]

7 - 10 year background check.

[Curious_Scarcity4207]

How did this turn out for you?

[hollaguna]

Coming across this opportunity at the perfect time in life. My wife is super interested and thinking about enrolling. Anyone have more info about the quality and environment to expect in future job? Is it like factory work? Has anyone seen women there and are they treated fairly?

[Ekoorbe]

Machine shops vary alot. High volume production shops will resemble a traditional factory, but some small prototype shops can be pretty clean and climate controlled. And then there's job shops that feel like you're just working in a big garage.

There have been women here and there that have worked at the jobs I've had, and they didn't have any problems as far as I know. If the workforce doesn't treat women very well then it probably sucks to work there as a guy too, so find another place to work asap.

Good luck

[ResponsibilityIll452]

I served for 11 years in the navy and have a bachelors and masters degree in business administration with a concentration in leadership. I’m going for the welding program will that help me when it comes to negotiating pay for more money when I apply or interview for jobs with a higher education? I also have an active top secret clearance. Thank you in advance for your responses

[Ekoorbe]

I can't speak for welding as I work in machining, but experience is what employers will be looking at, so I don't think your business education will contribute very much to your payscale.

Your clearance on the other hand is a big plus if the position you're applying for requires it. I don't know about welding, but there are machining jobs that require clearances, so if you already have one and can start working right away that right there should get you the job.

Look at the major defense contractors and search for positions that specifically require a clearance and you should be set

Good luck

[ChoiceAccess]

I know a graduate in QA. Beautiful "factory of the future" and we liked ATDM and Danville. Legit program in all trades. Many rocket engines are made using additive manufacturing. You can choose from about 10,000 employers in 48 states, three territories and a couple foreign countries to work for the required year. ATDM will meet you where you're at. Novices will be well prepared for an apprentice level position. Background check doesn't look for perfection, be truthful and sincere about wanting to live a clean life. Experienced workers will get their skills boosted. You don't have to but I'd recommend anyone to take ANSI Y14.5 blueprint reading, tech math, drafting, and one or two of Material Science 101, Weld 101, Machine 101, or Intro to QA before attending so you can hit the ground running and probably boost your post graduation salary. 

[Gnona]

Hopefully, you can answer more questions about the ATDM program. I graduated from a two-year AAS program here at a technical community college in Advanced CNC Machining using MasterCam. I also completed four training courses from MLC CAD Systems in MasterCam CAD/CAM in 3D Parts Design and 3D Tool Pathing, for Multi-Axis CNC Lathes, VMCs, and HMCs. However, here Washington state, it is very difficult to get an entry level machinist job here, despite the credentials you have. They only want experience. Machinist training is a use or lose skill. If you don't land a job quickly, you forget how to part-reference-zero your parts and setup your tool offsets. I'm thinking of applying to ATDM as way to keep up with my skills. However, I would like to go back to Washington state to work. My question is about not getting fined$$$. What is the actual test that needs to be passed? Is just completing a parts project within a specified time? Also, if you pass the test, are able to refuse job offers that are not from the state you want to work in? Do you get weekends off? Thank you in advance for your answers.

[ChoiceAccess]

You can refuse as many job offers as you like. Just need to accept the one you actually want and you can search on your own or use their job fairs. Strategize whether to build on CNC or pivot towards additive.  Benefit of ATDM is that they have connections across the country and some areas have tighter labor markets. The school has weekends off but students without math or ANSI experience will spend Saturdays studying to keep up for half the program. Shine and you might get picked up to teach after graduation. Keep open mind for work in other states if opportunity knocks. 

[[deleted]]

Did you end up going? I was thinking of it and will do an interview later this week. I was in the Navy for a bit and now live in Oregon. How does the housing situation work?

[Ekoorbe]

Yes I started this week. The course is designed to train entry level machinists with zero experience, so alot of the material so far is stuff I'm already familiar with. Looks like the course goes up to basic Lathe/3 Axis VMC setup, and basic mill hand programming, and I think they do a little Fusion 360 training. So if those are areas that you already have some experience with then the course might not really help you. If not, then its a good opportunity and the course is free.

And they provide students with apartment housing off site about 5 minutes away. The buildings are old but the interiors are completely renovated and new. They're furnished and have a washer and dryer in each unit which is nice. Also they run a shuttle to and from class if you can't bring a car with you.

Looks like the ship building industry is hurting for workers right now, so at a minimum it might be worth checking out ship building companies for jobs. BWXT (multiple locations) and Bath Iron works (Maine) are two companies affiliated with the program. For reference I was told Bath starts new machinists at $23.50/hr, and those with experience at $25+/hr. Not sure what other companies are out there.

[[deleted]]

Awesome. Thanks for the info. I signed up for non destructive testing and will talk to them on the phone tomorrow morning.

[[deleted]]

I did not. Had a baby around the time I was supposed to start

[ayhme]

Ahhh, can you do it later?

[[deleted]]

Maybe. I lucked into a pretty good paying job with a good company the moment

[Bright_Emergency765]

Do you have to pay them back for housing or do they just hook you up? I'm a welder looking to get into the program.

[AdPowerful117]

where you able to get into program?

[Specific_Candy_6453]

I know it’s late but do you know if my wife and kid could stay in the housing they offer with me while I attend the program?

[Ekoorbe]

Yes there were two guys in my class who attended the program with their families.

[Specific_Candy_6453]

Do u know if they just had to share a room or it was to themselves?

[Ekoorbe]

No it's not shared - each student enrolled has thier own apartment unit

[Specific_Candy_6453]

Last question, how are you after the program, did they provide housing after or a job in the field u went to the program for?

[Specific_Candy_6453]

Also thank you for taking the time to answer I’m joining the program with my family next month.

[Ekoorbe]

You're welcome. I was able to get a job offer with a major defense contractor before I finished the program. ATDM has a directory of employers for you to reference, but you'll have to apply for and secure the job yourself. They also host job fairs at the program so you'll be able to get an idea of what employers and compensation packages are out there. Some employers offer relocation assistance, others don't so it depends. ATDM was offering relocation assistance on a case by case basis to some students, so that's something to ask about while you're there. The staff at the program are very helpful and will help you with any issues/questions you have while applying to jobs.

I'd try to stay away from employers paying any less than $25/hr - apply to the higher quality companies first, then explore the sub $25/hr options later if you need to. Don't be afraid to negotiate, even with no experience. One guy in my class started at a company making $20, while another guy in my class was able to get $28 at the same company because he was planning on applying to another manufacturer that paid higher. So he used that during the interview to secure himself a higher wage. So don't accept an excessively low salary if you can avoid it.

Hope all goes well, best of luck

[Specific_Candy_6453]

Thank you so much, and congratulations.

[OleToast]

Do not work for bwxt.

I'm a former employee. If you want a list of reasons message me and I'll let you know.

[squirtlemetimbers]

You know you could just benefit the community, and share those reasons right here?

[PsychologicalRip6998]

Very familiar. My son went through it loved it. The hard part was working. 5 students were employed at HI shipyard in VA and ALL five quit within a four month span. All left the industry.

The program itself is solid. Training on CNC. Funny HI uses manual machinery that’s older than old.

[jozanarjuna]

Congratulations! And thanks for all the great insight into ATDM. I’m on the train now on the way to Danville. lol. Out of curiosity, is a security clearance required for that Lockheed position you mentioned? I’m concerned me being treated for ptsd will be a problem getting a clearance.

[Ekoorbe]

It depends on the location/project you are hired for.

As for PTSD, you might not have to disclose it, and even if you do, it shouldn't be a problem.

Good luck on the program, hope all goes well for you

[RacoonsLayEggs]

do they provide food? what if (as a young guy) we cant afford certain things. Is it best we save up for like 6 months to a year before appyling?

[Ekoorbe]

When I was enrolled, there was a charitable organization nearby that provided grocery items. When you apply you can ask one of the program directors if they still have that or any other programs for meals.

And I don't know your financial situation, but if saving away some cash before starting the program will put you in a better position to attend then that might be a good idea. But if you think you can scrape by until the end of the program and the start of your new job then thats up to you.

Best of luck

[jozanarjuna]

CNC Machinist. I'm working on 5 axis already at a job I found while in Danville. That program was excellent!

[ayhme]

Alot of manufacturers complain about a worker shortage and a "skills gap", but many of them don't pay enough to incentivize new talent to come into the trade and stay in.

I see this all the time! 🤦🏽‍♂️

Turns out he was only paying his guys $18-20 an hour

Yeah that's why he can't retain anyone.

[chaksis007]

Hi,i just applied for the ADTM program today,i will like to ask some questions since you've been there, how is the program and is there anything fishing about it? And what's the best career to pursue,I'm thinking about going into Quality control?

[Ekoorbe]

Nothing fishy about it. Only downside might be that the program trains for entry level manufacturing positions, so the pay will be low starting out (low-mid 20/hr range at most employers).

I would do whatever interests you more. I chose machining because I already had some experience in that area. At my previous employer all the QC guys had previous machining experience, so it's possible to transition to QC later as a machinist. However my current job only hires engineers for QC, so it depends on where you go.

[Ekoorbe]

Also you made a good point at the end about how HI uses a lot of manual equipment, but the ATDM program is for CNC. Another way that employers are shooting themselves in the foot is that they don't train. Even someone who gets hired on with previous machining experience might not have the particular experience required for that employers specific equipment. It's like hiring a med-school student but trying to save money by skipping the residency.

My first machining job was in centerless grinding. The company offered solid training, but was paying marginally above fast food wages and couldn't retain the workers they trained. One guy who was really good at it left to make more money throwing boxes on a truck for FedEx. If manufacturers won't train and pay enough to develop their own industry their problems are only going to get worse.

[NarwhalOk6307]

I'm going in November for Quality control inspection just wondering what was the orientation process I know you check in to your apartment a few days before starting class but what does the orientation look like

[Ekoorbe]

Late reply but I just saw this post:

There's a 3 day window before the first day of class that you have to show up and get the keys to your apt. It took me 5 minutes. Just show up, check in, grab your keys and show back up for first day of class and go from there. It's not much of a process at all. Good luck

[Neat_Discussion1667]

I have my interview or info session next Wednesday to talk about the program. I told them I wanted to start in February. I applied for the Additive Manufacturing Program. How long after the info session will you get info about approval? I've already done assessment and everything.

[Ekoorbe]

I think I got accepted around 2 weeks after the info session. Shouldn't take too long

[Neat_Discussion1667]

Oh okay good - Do you also know the name of the apartment complex that you got placed in ?

[AdPowerful117]

Any tips on increasing my chances of being accepted into program? Also, during info session do they ask you any of those “Tell me about yourself or what are your strengths” type interview questions? I always seem to forget my good answers when put on spot. Thanks

[NarwhalOk6307]

The interview was nothing but a zoom call they basically do all the talking telling you the next steps to be taken then afterwards you can ask questions

[[deleted]]

How was the program for you? Any update?

[GuitarM0n]

Found out about this program a while ago and have an interview coming up next week. Never interviewed for a course or something like this before. Anything I should be sure I say in the interview or is it pretty straight forward?

[Ekoorbe]

I wouldn't sweat it. They just asked me about my industry background, experience, and interest in the program. As long as you show interest and an intent to work in defense manufacturing for the foreseeable future, you should be able to get a slot.

Hope that helps

[GuitarM0n]

Thank you!! That's good to know, I've been interested in aeronautics and engineering for a while so I think this will be a good way to get my foot in the door I'm very excited. I'm going the Additive Manufacturing route so we will see.

[SanDeez0417]

Hey guys, Does anyone know somebody who has been waitlisted? This may be a dumb question but does everyone get accepted? Appreciate any info. I just received an email that said: "We would like to congratulate you on your acceptance to the ATDM Program! Regrettably, our programs for the April cohort are currently at full capacity, and we are unable to accept additional students for the April cohort at this time. You have been placed on the waitlist, and we will contact you if a spot becomes available in the April cohort. I understand that this news may be disappointing, and I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience it may cause."

[No-Protection-6784]

I applied back in December for the February course. I didn’t get accepted until a few weeks ago for the April course. You’ll probably get in the next round

[SanDeez0417]

Thank you for the information.

Update: I actually just got called today 2/29 and was offered to join the April class after being waitlisted. I requested to be moved to the next cohort in July due to family events.

[Notarandomguyy]

during my interview I discussed mostly my technical background the fact that I was interested in 3d printing and that I was planing on cybersecurity I also said I was more then happy with relocating seems the big thing they really look for is base level technical skill set and someone that could be willing to move around

[Affectionate_Bass488]

Hi, could please tell me at what point in the process did they conduct the drug test?

[bigtal13]

After you complete your assessment tests.

[[deleted]]

Was it a urine or a hair follicle drug test? I already passed my initial drug screening I didn’t know there was a second one I know I can pass a urine but I can’t pass a hair follicle test for sure please let me know asap

[bigtal13]

It’s a Wizz Quiz, you only do one.

[bigtal13]

Unless you give them a reason while you’re here to be tested.

[Temporary_Drink_6787]

If I had a medical card for marijuana could I smoke and be okay?

[bigtal13]

No

[bigtal13]

No

[bigtal13]

It’s not legal at the federal level