Murray: “When it comes to aerospace, our higher education system is second to none.”

Sen. Ed Murray: “Washington has been good for aerospace and aerospace has been good for Washington,” Murray said. “When it comes to aerospace, our higher education system is second to none.”

Murray said the council will help strengthen the state’s already established industry.

Rep. Jeff Morris said the state has done a lot, but must do more in order to stay competitive.

Sen. Mike Hewitt: “It’s very, very important for all of us to keep track of where we’re at, keep competitive and make sure that the next Boeing airplanes are built in the state of Washington.”

Gregoire said the council will help ensure that students across community colleges will have similar training, likewise for universities.

“Our research and development is great, but it sits in silos,” Gregoire said. She wants to integrate research from WSU and UW. “What we can do with this council, we can actually get ahead of anybody.”

Gregoire said Boeing wasn’t available for the press conference only because their representative couldn’t make it. She said they’re supportive of it.

She also said she found out this morning that she heard of the reduction in 777 production — from 7 to 5 — and she asked if it would lead to layoffs. “The answer was yes.”

Tags: aerospace, boeing