Source : Aviation Week . Naveo Analysis
With more than 130,000 highly-skilled workers in the aerospace sector — many of whom are second or third-generation aircraft builders — Washingtonians are hard at work producing the most advanced aircraft , uncrewed aerial systems , and space exploration vehicles in the world , just as they have been for more than a century .
Washington ’ s commitment to the aerospace industry is steadfast , as is our commitment to building an equitable , sustainable future . We know that the only way to reach that shared goal is by fostering a climate of innovation , giving companies the opportunity to create good , family-wage jobs that in turn , enable communities to prosper and grow .
The state ’ s Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program ( ICAP ) is a vital part of that effort , and it includes two fast-growing , forward-thinking , public-private partnerships in the aerospace sector .
1 . The Pacific Northwest Aerospace Cluster ( PNAC ), led by the Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance ( PNAA ), is working to maintain and increase the state ’ s competitiveness in aircraft manufacturing by focusing on technological innovation , sustainable manufacturing , supply chain mapping and resilience , and workforce development . This cluster is a vital part of the state ’ s efforts to foster the training network that will enable the next generation of workers and tradespeople to thrive in every facet of this industry , from the factory floors to the engineering offices located all across the state .
2 . The Sustainable Aviation Technologies and Energies ( SATE ) cluster , led by the Aerospace Futures Alliance ( AFA ), is making important strides in the research , development and deployment of sustainable aviation fuels , electrified aircraft and hydrogen-powered aviation . Their work is helping ensure a sustainable , equitable future by advancing the aviation world ’ s fight against climate change .
OCTOBER | NOVEMBER 2022 ISSUE NO . 29 45