Rep. Larsen visits Kongsberg, Edmonds College to discuss growth and government support

U. S. Rep. Rick Larsen visited Kongsberg Discovery in Lynnwood, discussing the company's upcoming manufacturing of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) for the first time outside Norway in over 30 years. The decision to produce HUGIN AUVs in Lynnwood aligns with demand from the U.

S. Department of Defense and commercial clients. Kongsberg executives sought Larsen's help in expediting their expansion efforts and voiced concerns about a proposed charge on heavy equipment. Following this, Larsen met with Edmonds College leadership to address the impacts of new federal student loan repayment policies. The college expressed fears that changes from income-based repayment to a flat payment could increase default rates among lower-income students.

In response, Edmonds College plans to enhance financial literacy counseling and promote grants to reduce reliance on loans. The college is also expanding its academic offerings, including a new AI and robotics degree. Larsen's engagement underscores the importance of federal support for local manufacturing and education initiatives.