Building Pathways for Washington’s Aerospace Future

By Jill Thornton — Center of Excellence for Aerospace & Advanced Manufacturing

In Washington State, aerospace thrives not just because of innovation in technology, but because of innovation in partnership. Across classrooms, hangars, and factory floors, leaders in aerospace are coming together to solve shared challenges. At the Center of Excellence for Aerospace and Advanced Manufacturing (COE), building those connections is what we do best.

Employers across the state are seeking skilled technicians, engineers, and advanced manufacturing professionals to fill critical positions. By connecting education, industry, and workforce partners, the COE helps ensure that students are gaining the right skills, employers are finding qualified talent, and Washington’s aerospace industry continues to grow.

One of the most collaborative examples is the Fighting 147s, a network of community and technical colleges that train the next generation of Aircraft Maintenance Technicians (AMTs). These colleges provide a critical workforce pipeline, and by bringing them together regularly, the COE helps keep that pipeline strong. Instructors share best practices, navigate complex FAA training regulations, and connect directly with airlines eager for graduates. The COE also helps coordinate student skills competitions, giving future technicians the chance to demonstrate their abilities, build confidence, and celebrate the craftsmanship that keeps aviation running safely and efficiently. The group’s work goes beyond coordination; it’s about building community among those shaping the future of aviation maintenance.

The COE’s long-standing partnership with The Boeing Company is another example of collaboration in action. From working together on grant-funded projects to raising awareness of Boeing’s Summer Development Program – which introduces high school, Skills Center, and community college students to aerospace careers – the partnership creates clear and inspiring pathways into the industry. By aligning education with opportunity, the COE and Boeing are helping the next generation of aerospace professionals take flight.

That same spirit of connection extends to small manufacturers, the backbone of Washington’s aerospace supply chain. Through Advisory Committee engagement, facility tours, and student outreach, the COE helps bridge the gap between classrooms and production floors. When students visit local shops, meet small business owners, and see advanced manufacturing in action, they gain firsthand understanding of the exciting career paths waiting for them.

Beyond individual partnerships, the Center of Excellence plays a unique statewide role: breaking down silos between organizations that often share common goals but work independently. By amplifying workforce development initiatives across colleges, companies, and community-based organizations, the COE helps spread good ideas faster and encourages collaboration instead of competition. Whether it’s spotlighting successful training models, connecting regions facing similar challenges, or sharing stories of innovation, the COE ensures that good work happening in one place can inspire progress in another, all across Washington State.

That collaborative energy is on full display at events like the Future in Flight: Aerospace and Advanced Manufacturing Expo, happening at the end of October in Kent, Washington. The Expo will bring together educators, employers, over 700 high school students, and community partners to celebrate aerospace and showcase career opportunities across the region. Through hands-on exhibits, industry speakers, and networking opportunities, events like Future in Flight embody the COE’s mission to connect people and organizations while inspiring the next generation of aerospace talent.

Every one of these partnerships strengthens Washington’s aerospace ecosystem connecting students with mentors, educators with employers, and opportunity with talent. Whether in a classroom, a small machine shop, or a bustling airfield, collaboration keeps the region’s aerospace industry soaring.