Washington Gov. Jay Inslee (left) presents the Governor's Award to Boeing's Beth Gilbertson, the company's Renton, Wash., energy representative, and Christian Taylor, West Corridor energy representative, at the third annual Washington Industrial Energy Leaders program event March 25 in Olympia, Wash

Dan Skaramuca/Contempo Studios photo

Boeing has received the Washington state Governor's Award for 'leading by example' with its outreach to local communities through conservation, education, and career-inspiring activities.

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee presented Boeing representatives with the third annual Washington Industrial Energy Leaders program (WIEL) ceremonies, March 25, in Olympia, Wash.

"Businesses like Boeing are challenging the old, entrenched ways of doing things and building a cleaner, more-energy efficient future while helping deliver a more robust economy for our state,” said Governor Inslee. "Congratulations to Boeing – and to all our industrial leaders – who know that when we lead the way in energy efficiency, the biggest winners are our children and grandchildren.”

The Washington Industrial Energy Leaders Program recognizes companies that are leaders in their field by making outstanding progress toward improved energy efficiency.

"Industry leaders face increased pressure to reduce operating costs, and to do business in a more sustainable way,” said Christine Love, industrial services manager for the Washington State University Energy Program. "Enhanced energy efficiency can help accomplish both of these goals.”

Boeing has formed strong partnerships with local utilities and educational groups.

"We are honored by this recognition from Governor Inslee for the ongoing energy efficiency work we perform in our Puget Sound area factories as well as our community outreach targeted at energy education and careers," said Larry Edwards, vice president of Boeing Site Services.

Boeing's Key 2014 accomplishments include:

• Developing and teaching an energy curriculum to 650 Everett middle school students in partnership with the non-profit Washington Green Schools.
• Powering the company's Renton site with 100 percent renewable energy.
• Making energy infrastructure investments to reduce energy use, including the company's largest single lighting retrofit of more than 5,100 fixtures in Auburn, Wash.
• Hosting energy managers from Puget Sound school districts to share best practice and lessons learned on energy management and sustainability.
• Receiving the 2014 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year Sustained Excellence Award.

By Michael Boroughs