SEATTLE (AP) — Gov. Chris Gregoire is recommending investments in educating and training an aerospace workforce to ensure Boeing assembles its 737 MAX in Washington.
At a news conference Wednesday at Renton Technical College Gregoire proposed putting $7.6 million into the University of Washington and Washington State University to enroll 775 more engineering students. She also proposes investing $1.5 million toward aerospace research at the UW and WSU.
Gregoire also proposes investing $450,000 to provide 12 high schools with aerospace curriculum support and $250,000 to add courses at 10 high schools for problem-solving using science and technology skills.
In August Boeing announced it would put new engines on the 737 to improve fuel efficiency and compete with the Airbus A320neo. Boeing is expected to announce next year where the MAX will be assembled.
