A major economic driver, the aerospace industry contributes to exports and higher wage jobs, which the United States requires to maintain robust economic health. Despite the investment in vocational educational training programs, insufficient workers have been available to aerospace companies. The purpose of this study was to investigate the connection between preparatory training and job performance, which may be key to addressing this problem. A positivist framework provided the foundation of the study. The research was conducted to quantify the skill gap and to frame the effectiveness of existing training programs to meet the skill needs, which focused mainly on employment and competency development. A random sample of 396 newly hired aerospace workers' in Washington State was used in this study. Existing performance records were pulled for jobs completed without defects for the weeks in preparatory training, on-the-job training, and previous experience of the workers. Statistically significant Spearman rank correlations (p < 0.05) were identified between structured on-the-job training and job performance, but not for experience. A significant correlation was identified between preparatory training and job performance in the first year, but not the second year. Results indicate a need to review the accuracy and effectiveness of training programs' simulation of the work environment and continued investment in on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs for vocational education grant recipients. Implications of these findings will promote social change in the form of strengthening the social and economic outlook for U.S. workers employment and wealth distribution. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]