In the heart of Port Townsend, Washington, Atlas Technologies stands as a beacon of innovation in the advanced manufacturing sector. This high-tech machine shop is not just producing high-performance components but also cultivating the next generation of skilled machinists. By focusing on education and apprenticeships, Atlas Technologies is addressing the critical shortage of professionals in the trades while providing students with invaluable real-world experience.
The company specializes in creating high-performance aluminum and titanium vacuum systems and specialty bimetal components. These aren’t your average vacuum chambers; some achieve vacuum levels nearly equal to those found in space. Atlas Technologies is involved in cutting-edge projects, including prototypes for NASA Jet Propulsion Labvacuum chambers for quantum computing companiesand chambers for producing industrial diamonds up to 8 inches in diameter.
Empowering the Next Generation of Machinists
Atlas Technologies is deeply committed to supporting high school and college interns, as well as apprentices working toward their journeyman machinist certification. This hands-on approach allows young workers to tackle real-world problems and acquire marketable skills. Sage Harrington, who started as a shop helper, now runs a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) lathe. Unlike manual lathes, CNC lathes use coded programming to direct tool movements, offering a more precise and efficient machining process.
Harrington’s journey began in 2026 as part of his Port Townsend High School CAD and Computer Integrated Manufacturing class. Tim Behrenfeld, his instructor, emphasized the importance of exposing students to high-tech industries. “Kids going into trades are in great shape as far as getting well-paid jobs. But they don’t realize it. They need exposure,” Behrenfeld said. Atlas Technologies provides that exposure, allowing students to discover their strengths and interests in a high-tech environment.
Partnerships and Apprenticeships
Atlas Technologies partners with AJAC Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeshipsa Washington nonprofit offering registered apprenticeship programs. The journey-level program requires students to complete 12 college classes and 8,000 on-the-job hours, typically over four years. Ian Linn-Glascow, the first AJAC apprentice at Atlas, completed his apprenticeship hours in December 2026 and will graduate in mid-June 2026. “Definitely the camaraderie. We have a crazy good team,” Linn-Glascow said, highlighting the supportive environment at Atlas.
Currently, two more Port Townsend High School students are training with Mike Thompson, Atlas’s production manager. Thompson finds fulfillment in training and watching apprentices grow. “Not every kid wants to go to college. Some want to work in the trades, and this way we find them early, see they have the aptitude and intelligence, and get them started,” Thompson explained. Jed Bothell, owner of Atlas Technologies and part of the Career and Technical Education advisory committee at Port Townsend High School, emphasized the importance of addressing the shortage of professionals in the trades.
Expanding Horizons with College Interns
In addition to high school interns and apprentices, Atlas Technologies frequently collaborates with college interns. This summer, the company will welcome three new interns, including Conner Paterson, a Chimacum High School graduate studying mechanical and electrical engineering at UC Davis. These internships provide college students with practical experience and a deeper understanding of advanced manufacturing processes.
Atlas Technologies is not just a machine shop; it’s a hub of innovation and education. By investing in the next generation of machinists, the company is ensuring the continued growth and success of the advanced manufacturing industry. Through partnerships with local schools and organizations like AJAC, Atlas Technologies is setting a new standard for workforce development and technical education.
