LETTER FROM THE GOVERNOR
Greetings from the Governor February 6-9 , 2023
It is my distinct pleasure to welcome you to the Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance ’ s ( PNAA ) 2023 Annual Aerospace Conference , Innovate – Collaborate – Accelerate .
The industry has proven itself to be very resilient over the past three years . Here at home in Washington , we continue to see our aerospace and aviation industry sectors invest in new technologies that will change the way pilots , passengers , and cargo fly in the future .
Washington State has made a 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 . Our Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program ( ICAP ) is a vital part of that effort , and it includes two fast-growing , innovative , public-private partnerships in the aerospace sector .
• The Pacific Northwest Aerospace Cluster ( PNAC ) 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 .
• The Sustainable Aviation Technologies and Energies cluster ( SATE ) 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 .
In addition to these new aviation and aerospace cluster programs , we also are supporting other cluster programs that will yield positive results for communities across our state for years to come .
Washington has also launched a new Aviation and Aerospace Advisory Committee , which is tasked with developing a road map that will chart a new era of competitiveness and prosperity for this overall sector . Industry , education , policy and legislative champions have spent the past year working on an impressive pla�orm that will help the state maintain its competitiveness and global leadership for the next century .
Thank you for your continued commitment to this industry . Very truly yours ,
Jay Inslee Governor
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