Crafting a Skilled Future: An ApprenticeshipNC Spotlight on Tyler Hulin
Published: January 7, 2026
Tyler Hulin is a graduate of United Brass Works, Inc.’s Machinist Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP). His career success reflects the impact of structured training, strong mentorship, and collaborative workforce development partnerships.
Tyler’s interest in machining began at Randleman High School, where he enrolled in a machining class and quickly realized how much he enjoyed working with his hands. Class assignments soon turned into passion projects. He brought home brass hammers, miniature cannons, jewelry pieces, and custom cases, excited to show his work to his family.
“I really enjoyed doing things with my hands,” Tyler said. “I found a niche for that.”
Seeing his enthusiasm, Tyler’s father encouraged him to explore machining as a long-term career. Around the same time, Tyler learned about local Registered Apprenticeship opportunities through his school’s career development counselor. He connected with United Brass Works, Inc., a local manufacturer and member of Apprenticeship Randolph, and chose to pursue a Registered Apprenticeship Program as his next step. The company’s proximity and strong commitment to training made it an ideal fit. “Working at United Brass Works, Inc. has been great! There are always opportunities to learn,” Tyler said.
United Brass Works’ Machinist RAP follows a structured training model focused on progressively improving apprentices’ skills. According to Tyler’s supervisor, Landon Martin, chair-elect of Apprenticeship Randolph, apprentices typically complete up to 32 hours of on-the-job learning each week, depending on their school schedule. Apprentices also receive eight hours of paid related instruction time, which Tyler completed through Randolph Community College as part of his Registered Apprenticeship.
United Brass Works, Inc.’s apprentices begin in quality control and then progress through the toolroom and production floor to gain broad machining experience. At the end of their program, the apprentices design and build their own tools for use in production.
Tyler progressed through each phase with focus and determination. He now works in the toolroom as a toolmaker. In this role, he designs and programs machines and produces replacement parts that help keep operations running smoothly. In addition to the technical skills he’s gained through his on-the-job learning, Tyler has also developed strong problem-solving, communication, and leadership abilities. He now serves as a mentor to newer apprentices and employees.
“Tyler succeeded because of his drive and determination to master this trade,” Martin said. “He understands new concepts quickly, remembers what he learns, and applies that knowledge in other situations.”
Tyler continues to build on his experience while pursuing a degree in industrial engineering at East Carolina University. He hopes to become a manufacturing or design engineer. United Brass Works, Inc. sponsors his education and supports his long-term career goals. “The support has been great,” Tyler said. “If I have questions or need help, someone is always willing to step in.”
Apprenticeship Randolph played a critical role in Tyler’s success. The consortium connects local schools, industry, and Randolph Community College, providing high school juniors and seniors with paid on-the-job training in high-demand fields. Initiatives like Apprenticeship Randolph equip apprentices with the skills and experience they need while helping employers build reliable talent pipelines.
Registered Apprenticeship is a key part of United Brass Works, Inc.’s company culture. Experienced employees value the opportunity to train tomorrow’s workforce and pass along generational knowledge. Through its partnership with Apprenticeship Randolph, the company offers hands-on opportunities that grow its workforce and give apprentices like Tyler valuable experience.
“Having young people come in and learn this trade gives us hope for the future,” Martin said. “It shows there is a workforce ready to grow our company and this industry.”
Tyler Hulin’s journey demonstrates how Registered Apprenticeship creates pathways to meaningful, long-lasting careers. Through commitment and drive, Tyler continues to build his future while contributing to the strength of North Carolina’s manufacturing workforce.
About Apprenticeship Randolph: Apprenticeship Randolph is an award-winning partnership among Randolph Community College, local industry, Asheboro City Schools, Uwharrie Charter Academy, and Randolph County Schools, providing high school juniors and seniors with hands-on, paid training in high-demand fields like advanced manufacturing and IT. Students earn college credit, industry credentials, and an Associate of Applied Science degree — tuition-free — while gaining real-world experience. Recognized as the 2025 Outstanding Apprenticeship Partner by ApprenticeshipNC and named a U.S. Department of Labor Apprenticeship Ambassador, the program is a national model for workforce development. Learn more at www.apprenticeshiprandolph.com.
About United Brass Works, Inc.: United Brass Works, Inc. is an industrial valve manufacturer that provides a wide range of products to meet our customers’ needs. In addition, they offer services that range from design and engineering to full-service machining. Learn more at www.ubw.com.
About ApprenticeshipNC: Recognized by the Office of Apprenticeship to act on behalf of the U.S. Department of Labor, ApprenticeshipNC is the State Apprenticeship Agency housed within the North Carolina Community College System. The ApprenticeshipNC Team works with employers, educational institutions, and community partners to foster and expand Registered Apprenticeship and Pre-Apprenticeship Programs across North Carolina. Learn more at www.apprenticeshipnc.com.