By Kayla Coffee — President & CEO of AFA

Washington State’s aerospace industry is entering a critical period of growth, innovation, and opportunity. To help industry leaders, policymakers, educators, and stakeholders prepare for what lies ahead, the Aerospace Futures Alliance (AFA) will host the 2026 Aerospace Leadership Summit on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the Museum of Flight in Seattle.

As Washington State’s leading aerospace advocacy and policy organization, AFA represents the entire aerospace ecosystem — from manufacturers and suppliers to airlines, workforce partners, educators, and emerging space companies. The Aerospace Leadership Summit serves as the premier gathering for industry leaders to discuss the future of aerospace and the policies, workforce investments, and partnerships needed to keep Washington at the forefront of global aerospace leadership.

This year’s Summit will feature a wide range of timely discussions focused on the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

Attendees will hear directly from airline leaders about what to expect from the aviation sector in the years ahead. As passenger demand continues to grow and airlines modernize their fleets, understanding industry trends and future needs will be essential for aerospace businesses throughout the supply chain.

The Summit will also host a special Mayoral Panel featuring leaders from key aerospace communities across Washington State. These local leaders will discuss how their cities are supporting aerospace growth through infrastructure investments, workforce development initiatives, business attraction efforts, and partnerships that strengthen the state’s aerospace competitiveness.

Workforce development will take center stage as industry leaders, career technical colleges, apprenticeship programs, and training providers discuss strategies to address one of the industry’s most pressing challenges: finding and training the next generation of aerospace workers. With aerospace production rates increasing and demand for skilled workers continuing to rise, collaboration between industry and education has never been more important. Attendees will gain insight into innovative workforce solutions, apprenticeship opportunities, and training pathways that are helping meet the industry’s growing talent needs.

The Summit will feature a keynote address from Governor Bob Ferguson, who will share his perspective on Washington’s aerospace economy and the importance of maintaining the state’s leadership position in aviation, space, and advanced manufacturing.

Industry participants will also hear from Boeing leadership regarding the company’s production ramp-up plans and what those plans mean for suppliers across the aerospace supply chain. As production increases, suppliers throughout Washington State and beyond will need to understand future opportunities, workforce requirements, and operational expectations.

Additional sessions will highlight the growing importance of composite materials training and advanced manufacturing capabilities, ensuring Washington’s workforce remains equipped with the skills needed for next-generation aerospace technologies.

The Summit will also explore the future of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and the progress being made throughout Washington State. Industry experts will discuss current developments, policy considerations, workforce implications, and how SAF is helping position Washington as a leader in sustainable aviation.

Most importantly, the Aerospace Leadership Summit provides a unique opportunity to connect directly with fellow aerospace leaders, elected officials, workforce partners, and industry experts. Through collaboration, advocacy, and engagement, Washington’s aerospace community can continue moving the industry forward together.

Join Aerospace Futures Alliance on September 24 at the Museum of Flight and be part of the conversation shaping the future of aerospace in Washington State.