‘Magic happens’: Paine Field aerospace center dedicates new hands-on lab

The inauguration of the 'Innovation Lab' at Edmonds College represents a significant advancement in aerospace education. This state-of-the-art facility features a 12-ton section of a Boeing 767 tanker, retrofitted for hands-on training in aerospace manufacturing. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, President Amit Singh emphasized that this lab is the first of its kind at an American college, providing unparalleled real-world experience for aspiring aerospace professionals. The Aerospace Certificate Program has successfully trained over 4,300 students, with an impressive 90% of graduates finding employment in the manufacturing sector, primarily within aerospace. U.

S. Rep. Rick Larsen highlighted the lab's importance in fostering a skilled workforce, while County Executive Dave Somers noted the ongoing challenges employers face in finding qualified candidates, making this training center crucial for the region. Boeing's donation of the fuselage exemplifies the collaboration between educational institutions and industry leaders to address workforce needs, enhancing educational opportunities and strengthening the local economy by preparing students for in-demand careers in aerospace.