John Young accepts a certificate presented by Ellwood President Michael Barrett.

John Young of Warren finds himself on the front lines of national defense.

Ellwood National Forge officials came together recently to celebrate Young’s completion of the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program in Danville, Va. The program consists of 600 hours of classroom and hands-on training designed to help adult learners earn skills necessary to make an immediate impact in the Defense Industrial Base, a system of companies that produce parts for the U.S. military to purchase.

ADTM focuses on training for manufacturing jobs in additives, non-destructive testing, CNC machining, quality control inspection, and welding. The training program teaches the skills needed for increasing military equipment production.

Young obtained all nine certificates ATDM offered and was praised for his dedication by both civilian and military instructors at his graduation in Danville.

He was happy he decided to take advantage of the training, even through all the trials he faced while away. Young said he looks forward to advancing his career with Ellwood.

“You went through a lot of personal trials during the four months, with the death of your mother, your father being ill, and the birth of your first grandchild. Your personal growth throughout is an inspiration,” said Abe Bigalow, Ellwood training manager.

Ellwood National Forge quickly partnered with ATDM when the program began in 2021 and has sent seven employees to the training. Two more employees, Robert Hadley and Justin Burton, will be in the cohort sent next month.

Michael Barrett, Ellwood’s president, emphasized Young’s dedication to attending ADTM.

“You have an amazing foundation and, with the training, the start of a successful career. We at Ellwood can’t wait to see what you achieve,” Barrett said.