Career opportunities in advanced manufacturing are growing, and Core Plus Aerospace is preparing students to become leaders in this workforce. During the 2024–25 school year, the Core Plus Aerospace community saw growth across the state in classrooms, colleges, and careers. We’re proud to share these stories, including:  

Growing Access and Reach  
Interest in developing advanced manufacturing skills continues to grow as students and families seek pathways to meaningful careers. This year, nearly 4,000 students were enrolled in Core Plus Aerospace programs at 55 high schools and skills centers across Washington state. Students are building the skills that will prepare them for the 271,000 manufacturing jobs at more than 7,000 manufacturing companies statewide.* 

rowing Real-World Impact 
Since 2015, more than 1,400 graduates of Core Plus Aerospace have launched careers at The Boeing Company as Assemblers/Installers, Aircraft Structures Mechanics, apprentices, and more. Core Plus Aerospace continues to deliver a robust pipeline of skilled talent for in-demand roles.  

Teachers Building Career Pathways for Students 
Through our visits to classrooms across the state, we are constantly impressed with the quality of instruction students are receiving in their Core Plus Aerospace courses. Teachers are equipping students with the same skills used every day in advanced manufacturing workplaces. This strong skills foundation is why Boeing created the Boeing Pre-Employment Training Program (BPET). BPET allows students from pre-certified academic manufacturing courses to fast-track the application process when applying for specific entry-level manufacturing jobs at Boeing. In 2025 more than 250 people were hired at Boeing through BPET, many of them Core Plus Aerospace graduates.  

Educational Opportunities beyond High school 
More than 3,100 students are advancing their education through 105 community and technical college programs that build directly on Core Plus Aerospace coursework. These aligned programs create clear pathways to advanced skills, credentials, and good-paying careers. 

Growing Hands-On Learning Experiences 
Career exploration is a cornerstone of Core Plus Aerospace, giving students opportunities to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences. In 2025, more than 90 students participated in the Core Plus Aerospace Summer Student Development Program hosted by Boeing. Through hands-on projects and guided experiences, students explored a range of manufacturing career pathways, gained insight into workplace expectations, and built meaningful connections with industry professionals. These experiences help students better understand their options after graduation and strengthen their confidence as they consider future careers in advanced manufacturing. 

Growing Investment in Student Success 
To further expand opportunity, the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction awarded $900,000 in grants to 23 high schools and skills centers. These investments support consumable materials, professional development, and new tools and equipment—ensuring programs continue to grow in quality, relevance, and impact. 

We are proud and excited to see students continue building skills, confidence, and futures. We look forward to another year of students growing their potential and shaping the future of aerospace and advanced manufacturing.

*National Association of Manufacturers, March 2026