Washington State Department of Commerce Aerospace International Trade Specialist , Joanna Boatwright , coordinated the activities and meetings for the Choose Washington coalition . Her work helped prepare the team for their interactions with representatives from the Japan aerospace industry . The Japanese External Trade Recruitment Organization ( JETRO ) hosted a meeting between Choose Washington ’ s team and several companies representing Japan ’ s aerospace industry . These introductions spawned further conversations and served to build long-lasting relationships .
“ JA2024 , as it ’ s called , offered us a prime opportunity to showcase our state ’ s collective capabilities in aviation , defense and space and to learn more about cultivating relationships in Japan and greater Asia ,” said Joanna . “ It was exciting to be part of the teamwork with all our partners as we held these meetings with these Japanese companies , agencies , and other leaders .”
Welcome Washington SBDC
For the first time , the Washington State Department of Commerce joined forces with the Washington Small Business Development Center ( SBDC ) at JA2024 , welcoming new companies to this exhibition and expanding opportunities for export trade . The SBDC represents a network of more than 40 expert business advisors working in communities across the state to help entrepreneurs and small business owners .
“ The international trade team of the Washington SBDC has concentrated our efforts on supporting small to medium-sized businesses within the aerospace industry ,” said Allan Peterson , international trade business advisor with Washington SBDC . Katsuhiro Masuda , with Sumitomo Corporation , ( Left ) and Lee Human , with AeroTEC .( Right )
DECEMBER 2024 | JANUARY 2025 ISSUE NO . 42 41