MEMBER

Jay Schmidt
SW WA HTC Chair

Question: Jay, what are the biggest opportunities to develop a robust, skilled workforce in high technology, advanced manufacturing?

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"The opportunity for impactful workforce development starts with involvement and investment with our education partners (K-12, Community Colleges, and University connections).  Internships, teacher externships, job shadows and "flipped internships" have great impact but have far more potential to be utilized."

Question: What are the shifts you expect in advanced manufacturing that may affect our region.

"SW Washington is currently home to a great hub of advanced manufacturing companies that support Aerospace, Uncrewed Systems, Defense, and Medical industry sectors.  At the same time, our companies compete at a global level, and many firms have ownership outside our region.  I believe that it's important to create ongoing regional differentiation to ensure that we continue to sustain and grow our advanced manufacturing base locally.  Strong education, industry and legislative partnerships are essential elements to be defensible in times of change."

Question: What fuels your passion by being involved with the Southwest WA High-Tech Council?  

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"I've been very fortunate to grow professionally in advanced manufacturing.   I started soldering circuit boards (by hand!) while I went to college and have been able to directly apply my education and leadership experiences in high-technology environments to the benefit of customers and our communities.   The companies in this region are world-class developers and manufacturers in growing industries - the challenges and opportunities to support our growth are motivators!"