Sector Facts

Quick Stats

• Washington was the largest exporter of aerospace products valued at $23.3B in 2010, 29.4% of national total
• King County firms represent the entire production value chain from machine shops to tier I suppliers and one of the two largest commercial aerospace manufacturers in the world
• Washington State is home to more than 6,000 aerospace engineers
• Home to final assembly operations for the Boeing 737, 747, 767, 777 and new 787 and 737-MAX
• More than 1/6 of all U.S. aerospace workers are employed in Washington state, the largest concentration in the country

Washington has a long history as a leader in aerospace and advanced manufacturing. Our decades of experience give us many advantages over newer entrants into the industries.

Center for aerospace expertise.

From the development and assembly of the 737-MAX to the cutting-edge 787 Dreamliner to national defense, our workforce brings unmatched experience and expertise. King County’s long, steady history with aircraft and aerospace has made this a hub for a skilled aerospace workforce. At last count, fully half of the state’s 84,000 experienced aerospace engineers, machinists and workers live in King County.

A history and commitment in aerospace.

Nearly half of the 650 commercial and defense aerospace companies in Washington are also located right here in King County. In addition to being the home of Boeing’s famous aircraft and aerospace divisions, King County has invested deeply in the future of aerospace in the region, including creating the King County Aerospace Alliance, a group dedicated to further strengthening the aerospace industry.

The bottom line for companies is that when it comes to the highest quality output, the lowest risk of errors and competitive costs, this is simply the best region in the world for aerospace.