High Hopes: A fresh start for longtime carpenter

Lonnie Majeski, 48

City: Stanwood
Program: Skagit Valley College Manufacturing Technology program (Mount Vernon)

Q: What did you do before you became a student here?
A: I was a union carpenter for 25 years. My kids are grown now. My wife died a few years ago. The construction industry hasn't picked up too well yet. I needed a fresh start.

Q: How did you come to enroll in this program? Are you interested in aerospace or simply looking for steady work?
A: I am taking welding and hydraulics, blueprinting and safety classes now -- 23 credits. But I intend to take composites with the hope of getting on at Boeing. I could not get a job with the skills I had.

I had to do some welding on my grandmother's farm, so I decided to enroll at Skagit and learn more about welding. I got help with a Basic Food, Employment and Training program grant. I'm interested in aerospace, for sure. My uncle works for Boeing. I love it here at Skagit Valley College. The faculty are very supportive and very happy with my work.

Q: What would be your ideal first job after this training program, and what would you like to be doing in five years? Would you be willing to relocate?
A: I would like to land a job with Boeing, but I will see what I can secure. I am a loyal employee, so eventually I would like to be somebody who helps direct or train others. I would be willing to go elsewhere to get a job.

Q: Do you follow Boeing in the news? How do you feel about the company's prospects?
A: I believe Boeing's prospects are good. They are strong in the industry and plane orders are sure to continue.

Q: When did you first travel by air and where did you go?
A: I flew from Oakland to Camp Pendleton for Marine Corps boot camp. I was 17.

Q: What will air transportation look like in 50 years?
A: For local flights, it probably will look very similar. For international flights, I think we will see planes that go higher and faster and use less fuel.

Learn more
Skagit Valley College's manufacturing technology program offers courses in technical design, welding and manufacturing fundamentals. Skagit Valley also has a certificate program option for composites.

Website: www.skagit.edu/default.asp