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Future in Flight: A launchpad for careers in aerospace

Manufacturing expo connects 700+ students with aerospace careers, fueling the local workforce pipeline.

November 06, 2025 in Our-Community

Kent-Meridian High School students pose at Boeing’s booth after speaking with Boeing representatives about the aerospace and manufacturing roles available. (© Boeing photo)

The inaugural Future in Flight Aerospace & Advanced Manufacturing Expo on Oct. 30 in Kent, Washington, brought together over 700 students and 80 teachers from across King County and beyond. With participants from programs such as Career and Technical Education (CTE), Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), welding and robotics, the expo showcased the manufacturing workforce pipeline that is essential for the region's economic future.

Kent Valley is home to more than 200 aerospace and advanced manufacturing companies, making it a hub for innovation and opportunity. Boeing, a key player in this ecosystem, sponsored the event to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals.

Carlton Turner, Boeing employee from the Workforce Requirements Skills team, speaks with students at the Boeing booth during the expo. (© Photo Credit: City of Kent)

Joey Villanueva, a Kent-Meridian High School student and attendee at the expo, participated in the 2025 Core Plus Aerospace Manufacturing Student Development Program, hosted by Boeing. Additionally, Villanueva is actively engaged in the Core Plus Aerospace program through Kent-Meridian High School, which allows students to explore the industry and take their advanced-manufacturing skills to the next level.

  • When asked about a potential career at Boeing, Villanueva said, "When I consider a career in manufacturing, Boeing comes to mind, as it offers a diverse range of job opportunities throughout the state."
Mayor Dana Ralph speaks with an attendee at the event. (© Photo Credit: City of Kent)

Tia Rivera, senior manager of Boeing’s workforce development team, was one of the representatives supporting the Boeing booth at the expo.

  • “We’re thrilled to speak with hundreds of students interested in manufacturing and hands-on skills. We want to share the opportunities available at Boeing and help them understand how their academic programs align with our critical skills,” Rivera said.

The expo featured 25 aerospace and advanced manufacturing employers, along with 15 colleges and training partners, all eager to engage with students.

  • This direct interaction provided high schoolers with a front-row seat to the exciting careers available in aerospace and advanced manufacturing, from space tech to high-performance manufacturing.
Students filled the aisles as they met with aerospace and manufacturing organizations at the event. (© Photo Credit: City of Kent)

Many manufacturing careers begin right after high school, with strong salaries and no college debt. When students choose careers in Washington state at companies like Boeing, it can help fuel the long-term success of the economy.

City of Kent Mayor, Dana Ralph, addressed those in attendance, emphasizing the significance of the expo.

  • “Over half of the jobs represented at this event are located in King County, and one-third of general aerospace jobs in Washington happen right here. So today, you all get to engage with the employers of your future, and that’s the beauty of us connecting here,” she said. Mayor Ralph also expressed her gratitude for Boeing’s support, noting, “Their involvement will have a lasting impact on our community.”