Impact Washington

What a way to close out Manufacturing Month! The Smart Manufacturing Forum brought manufacturers, industry leaders, educators, workforce organizations, economic development partners, and policymakers together in Southwest Washington to connect, exchange perspectives, and explore what’s ahead for manufacturing.

From technology and workforce to the trends shaping our industry, the energy in the room reflected the strength and opportunity of manufacturing in the region.

A big thank you to our speakers, sponsors, partners, and everyone who made the day possible.

The momentum continues. Stay tuned for photos, highlights, and more from the forum!

The agenda is shaping up for the Smart Manufacturing Forum on October 26 in Vancouver.

The forum will bring together manufacturers, educators, workforce organizations, and community leaders to discuss manufacturing technology, workforce development, and opportunities for regional growth in Southwest Washington.

Attendees will hear national and regional perspectives on manufacturing, participate in leadership and workforce discussions, and have the opportunity to tour Clark College's Advanced Manufacturing Center.

Register today: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1999003607602?aff=oddtdtcreator

Schwabe Washington Employment Security Department

What is your factory already telling you about flow, capacity, and growth?

Join Us for Impact Washington's-In The Works (Live) as we dig into facility layout with Paul Hamacher of Hamacher and Associates, LLC, who brings 30 years of manufacturing operations experience to the discussion.

We'll talk about why layout decisions are often made on gut feel instead of data, what that costs, and what manufacturers can learn by looking at their facility through a different lens.

This isn't a webinar. It's a conversation. Bring your questions, bring your own war stories, and join the discussion.

Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/efficient-facility-layout-what-your-factory-is-trying-to-tell-you-tickets-1996533249695 Sarah Stuart

Thank you to Schwabe for sponsoring the Smart Manufacturing Forum.

The future of depends on more than technology alone. It takes strong leadership, workforce strategies, and the right partners.

Join us on October 26 to explore the trends, technologies, and connections helping Southwest Washington manufacturers compete and grow.

Register now: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1999003607602?aff=oddtdtcreator

Happy Manufacturing Month!

This October, we celebrate the manufacturers and skilled workforce that power Washington's economy and strengthen communities across our state.

We are grateful for the manufacturers building lasting success across our state and for the partners who help strengthen Washington's manufacturing ecosystem.

Join us in celebrating Manufacturing Month 2026. https://www.impactwashington.org/news?post=14367&title=Manufacturing-Month-2026:-Celebrating-Washington-Manufacturers

Governor Bob Ferguson has signed a proclamation recognizing October 2026 as in Washington.

This recognition celebrates the manufacturer, workforce, educators, and industry partners who contribute to one of Washington's most important industries.

Every day, manufacturers solve complex challenges, build new capabilities, and advance the products, technologies, and industries that help Washington remain competitive.

https://www.impactwashington.org/news?post=14360&title=Governor-Bob-Ferguson-Proclaims-October-2026-Manufacturing-Month-in-Washington

Manufacturing Extension Partnership

Join the South Sound Defense Manufacturing & Innovation Summit to explore defense contracting, critical technology needs, supply chain opportunities, industry readiness, and advanced manufacturing resources. https://washingtonapex.ecenterdirect.com/events/855459?embedded=0

Whether you're an established defense supplier or exploring opportunities within the defense industrial base, this summit offers practical insight into where the market is headed and how manufacturers can position themselves for growth.
• Gain insights on priorities, supply chain gaps, and upcoming procurement needs
• Network with manufacturers and innovative companies
• Learn how to promote innovations that support production capability, technology transition, and industrial readiness
• Hear updates on contracting policy developments
• Celebrate the kickoff of

Register today!

What will help manufacturers stay competitive over the next few years? Technology is part of the answer. So are workforce, leadership, and strong regional partnerships.

That's why we're bringing manufacturers, industry leaders, workforce partners, educators, and economic development organizations together for the Smart Manufacturing Forum - Southwest Washington on October 26th in Vancouver, WA https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1999003607602?aff=oddtdtcreator

Expect practical conversations, real-world perspectives, and opportunities to connect with others shaping the future of manufacturing in our region.

Looking to grow beyond domestic markets?

Join Economic Alliance Snohomish County for World Trade Ready, a free seminar for manufacturers and small businesses interested in exporting.

Learn about export resources available in Washington, how Foreign Trade Zone #85 can support your business, and opportunities to reach customers in Korea through Coupang.

Register here: https://bit.ly/WorldTradeReady Port of Everett Washington State Department of Commerce

World Trade Ready Exporting, E-Commerce & Foreign Trade Zone Workshop

We're proud to support Chinook Enterprises in this initiative. Glad to be part of a community that helps create more opportunities for everyone!

Join us at the This Old House: Make It Accessible Fall Open House & Fundraiser on September 17 in Mount Vernon. https://chinookenterprises.betterworld.org/events/ThisOldHouse

The work we do is only possible because of the incredible community that stands beside us. 💙🏡✨

As we prepare for This Old House: Make It Accessible, we're grateful for the businesses and organizations that have stepped up to support our mission through sponsorship. Their generosity helps create opportunities, remove barriers, and build a more inclusive community for all.

Thank you to each of our sponsors for investing in this event and the people we serve. We couldn't do it without you.

Please join us in recognizing the amazing sponsors featured here, and thank them for helping make this year's event possible! 👏

Janicki Impact Washington Skagit Sign Co. Print Solutions, Inc Puget Sound Energy Ashley's Design & Letterman Jackets Navy Vet Real Estate