Southwest Washington  High Tech Council

Maddie Merton  
Account Executive, Impact Washington

Question: Maddie, what are the biggest opportunities to sustain a robust, skilled workforce?

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"One thing I feel strongly about is getting more young people and their parents exposed to modern manufacturing. I think there's still a misconception about what manufacturing looks like today. When you walk into some of our local facilities, you see robotics, automation, advanced technology, and people doing really interesting work. I'd love to see more students and parents have that experience because you can't get excited about a career you don't know exists.

I also believe we need to invest just as much in the people already working in manufacturing. Giving employees opportunities to learn new skills, take on leadership roles, and grow within their companies is how we build a workforce that stays strong over time."

Question: What is the most important industry trend that you expect, and how are you preparing for it?

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"AI and automation are obviously changing manufacturing, but what interests me most is how companies decide when and where to use these technologies. In conversations with manufacturers, I often hear the same challenges: rising costs, workforce shortages, and the pressure to do more with less.

I don't believe technology is always the first answer. Sometimes improving a process or investing in employee training can make a bigger difference than purchasing new equipment. At Impact Washington, I enjoy helping manufacturers work through those decisions, explore what's possible, and connect with people who can help them move forward.

For me, innovation is about solving real problems and helping businesses become stronger, not just adopting the latest technology."

Question: What fuels your passion as a long-term member of the Southwest Washington High-Tech Council?​

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"What excites me about Southwest Washington is how much potential I see that we haven't fully tapped into. We have some incredible companies here, from semiconductors and aerospace to unmanned aircraft systems, maritime, and advanced manufacturing. Our geography also gives us a real advantage, with access to ports, transportation networks, and global markets.

In my work at Impact Washington, I meet manufacturers who are doing impressive things but aren't always aware of the programs, funding, or expertise available to help them take the next step. I love being able to make those connections and see what can happen when the right people and resources come together. It's also why I'm concerned about state funding cuts to programs that support these businesses. We need to recognize their value and what we stand to lose.

That's what I appreciate about the Southwest Washington High Tech Council. It's an opportunity to connect with people who care about this region and want to see it succeed. I genuinely enjoy opening doors, finding opportunities that might otherwise be missed, and helping turn good ideas into something tangible for our manufacturers and communities."

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