AFA Advocacy Week
Connecting Industry Expertise with Legislative Action
By Kayla Coffee — CEO & President for Aerospace Futures Alliance
On Thursday, January 22, the Aerospace Futures Alliance (AFA) brought the voice of Washington’s aerospace community directly to the steps of the Washington State Capitol for its annual Advocacy Day: Aerospace on the Hill. Industry leaders from across the state convened in Olympia with a shared mission: to ensure policymakers understand the critical role aerospace plays in Washington’s economy today and its continued importance for the future.
Throughout the day, leaders representing the supply chain, aviation, space, and sustainable aviation sectors participated in more than 60 meetings with legislators and their staff. These conversations were not simply informational; they were foundational to building relationships between businesses and the elected officials representing their districts. By sharing firsthand insight into how policy decisions directly impact operations, workforce development, and innovation, participants helped bridge the gap between industry realities and legislative priorities.
Discussions focused on ensuring Washington’s policymakers recognize aerospace as more than a legacy industry. Aerospace generates approximately $71 billion in revenue for Washington businesses and supports more than 80,000 jobs statewide. These are not just numbers. They represent families, communities, and the skilled workforce powering advancements in commercial aviation, space, and innovative technologies. Aerospace continues to provide high-paying, living-wage careers for thousands of Washingtonians, but meeting the demands of tomorrow’s global economy will require attracting, retaining, and upskilling even more talented workers.
This urgency is underscored by global trends. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), aircraft flew nearly 84% full worldwide in November, the highest level ever recorded. With global travel demand projected to reach record highs in 2026, Washington’s aerospace workforce will be instrumental in meeting increased production needs and advancing next-generation technologies. Meanwhile, Washington’s growing space sector expanded by 34% last year, with more than 100 companies now calling the state home.
Yet even as aerospace has served as a backbone of Washington’s economy for decades, its impact cannot be taken for granted. Many new legislators may not fully understand how deeply interconnected aerospace is with other industries across the state. From advanced manufacturing to education and workforce training, Advocacy Day serves as a powerful reminder that continued engagement with policymakers is essential to ensuring that future legislation supports, rather than unintentionally hinders, this vital sector.
The day concluded with a reception that brought together policymakers and industry leaders in a spirit of collaboration and shared commitment. These moments of connection reinforce a simple but important truth: meaningful policy begins with strong relationships.
Together, through continued advocacy and partnership, AFA and its members can help ensure that Washington’s aerospace industry remains a global leader in innovation, job creation, and economic opportunity. We invite you to join us next January for this critical day of engagement — and share your story with the leaders shaping our state’s future.
