Business Development
Joshua Hall
(206) 256-6118

Business Expansion
Sally Harris
(360) 366-1973

International Trade
Bill King
(206) 256-6128

International Trade
Troy DeFrank
(206) 256-6145

 
Aerospace
LABOR FORCE
82,000
REVENUES
$32B
COMPANIES
160
ENGINEERS
7,000
CLUSTER
650
# of Firms in Cluster
 

Washington is a global leader in aerospace R&D and commercial aircraft products. With over 82,000 skilled workers and more than 650 companies, Washington has one of the most robust and dynamic clusters in the world. Home to cutting-edge aerospace R&D in composites, avionics, and alternative fuels, Washington is at the forefront of the aerospace industry. This cluster is supported by the Aerospace Innovation Partnership Zone. The Washington State Aerospace Bulletin provides information on the aerospace cluster, local companies and emerging technologies. 

The strength of Washington's aerospace cluster lies in its talented workforce and its six integral subsectors: airframe manufacturing; avionics; composites; engineering & research; tooling; and interiors. 

Washington state’s government is committed to promoting the aerospace industry. The infrastructure is in place to support the industry. The workforce is highly trained, knowledgeable, and dedicated to the industry. All this is why airplane, defense, and space companies come to Washington to do business.

Floyd Henry, President
General Plastics Manufacturing Company
 
 
 
Quick Facts
  • In 2008, Washington exported $33.8 billion worth of aircraft and related parts.
  • Greater Seattle boasts one of the highest concentration of aerospace firms in the world.
  • Washington's aerospace cluster is represented throughout the production value chain from machine shops to tier I suppliers and one of the two largest commercial aerospace manufacturers in the world.
  • Washington state is also home to more than 7,000 aerospace engineers.
  • Washington's aerospace industry has the largest concentration of aerospace workers in the U.S. - more than 1/6 of all U.S. aerospace workers are employed in Washington State.
 
Aerospace Workforce Resources

Washington state offers industry-wide support for aerospace companies with tier one research institutions, specialized aerospace programs and worker retraining opportunities. Washington state's educational institutions have developed curriculum and programs to provide the expertise needed by leading employers in the aerospace industry.

 
 
Aerospace Events
 
 
 
Washington Wire
 
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2009 Copyrighted Material International Trade and Economic Development, Department of Commerce
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