Message from AWB
Manufacturing in the state of Washington is at the same time, an international success story and
an industry in transition. From commercial airplanes and heavy-lift cranes to hydraulic jacks, semi-
conductors and doors, Washington’s manufacturers are recognized around the globe as leading
industry innovators.
Yet, at the same time, thousands of manufacturing jobs continue to go unfilled — even in one of the worst
economies on record. A lack of skilled workers, able to meet the demands of large and small manufacturers
statewide, continues to plague the industry. Workforce training must continue to be a priority, as should
efforts to educate future employees as to the benefits of this powerful economic engine for the state’s
economy. Consider that Washington state manufacturers:
• Have an annual economic impact of $132.2 billion
• Export $52.4 billion in goods annually
• Offer average annual compensation of $77,470 (2009)
• Support 258,300 other jobs in the manufacturing export industry
As such, it is important that the business environment of the state provide an opportunity for the industry
to prosper and remain a key contributor to the state’s economic climate.
Please take a moment to review the findings of our 2011 listening tour. They are integral to preserving
and enhancing our state’s manufacturing industry.
— Don C. Brunell, AWB President