There are more than 80 firms in the aerospace supply chain in Pierce County, and their industry is changing rapidly due to increased global demand for commercial air travel and a highly competitive marketplace.

That’s why Executive Pat McCarthy and the Economic Development Board of Tacoma-Pierce County are hosting the first-ever Pierce County Aerospace Summit on July 27. Business owners and managers who are involved in the aerospace industry — or want to expand into the supply chain — will hear from experts in areas such as workforce training, taxes, business financing and defense contracting. The keynote speaker is Drew Magill, Boeing’s marketing director for commercial airplanes, who will present the company’s market outlook.

“Pierce County has a strong aerospace cluster that employs thousands of workers, whether that’s directly with Boeing at its Frederickson plant or with suppliers who work in metal fabrication, plastics, composites, tool manufacturing or software development,” McCarthy said. “State data show that every direct job created in the aerospace industry generates 2.8 jobs across all sectors of the local economy. Growing our aerospace employment is good for everyone in Pierce County.”

“This event will provide an opportunity for aerospace suppliers to learn more about available services and resources in the region,” added Bruce Kendall, president of the Economic Development Board of Tacoma-Pierce County.

The Pierce County Aerospace Summit will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Fri., July 27, in William Philip Hall on the campus of the University of Washington Tacoma. Space is limited. Attendees can register online here.