“ We have been confident from the beginning that the Spokane-North Idaho Tech Hub holds tremendous potential for developing advanced technologies, manufacturing and production that will help meet critical demand for aerospace components. We are committed to pursuing additional funding to support educational programs and workforce development that will be essential to the success of the Tech Hub.”
Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray have shared their involvement in securing funding for the Center. They are counting on the Spokane and Coeur d’ Alene regions to create new technologies through research and development to solve challenges in American manufacturing.
For business organizations looking at economic development— like Greater Spokane, Inc.— Gary Ballew, VP of economic development, said,“ Two important elements are visibility of the capabilities here, putting us on the national and international stage, and being known as a center of excellence around advanced thermoplastic composites.” He expects economic growth in the region with new manufacturers and talent moving into the area.
The timeframe for bringing advanced composites via thermoplastics is five years, and they hope to have demonstrator parts by next year.
Contact
Lakeside Companies Maria Lusardi AAMMC Communications T: 509-474-1928 M: 573-289-0714 E: mlusardi @ aerospacetechhub. com
28 NORTHWEST AEROSPACE NEWS