IAM International President Brian Bryant, on behalf of the 600,000 active and retired IAM members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), the largest aerospace manufacturing union in North America, wrote a letter to President Biden strongly urging support for the Spokane-based American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center Technology Hub’s application for an Economic Development Administration (EDA) Phase 2 Implementation Grant.
“This grant is not just about the hub, but about the livelihoods and future of our members who are at the forefront of aerospace innovation and manufacturing,” said Bryant. “The continued hard work and partnership of labor, industry, government, and educational institutions will ensure the United States remains the undeniable leader in advanced aerospace development and manufacturing for generations to come.”
“By investing in the Spokane Aerospace Tech Hub, we’re not just securing America’s place as a leader in aerospace,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Gary R. Allen. We’re fueling innovation that will propel us to new heights in air travel and space exploration. It’s an investment in the future of aerospace innovation and the continued strength of our nation.”
The IAM commends the administration, Congress, and leaders like U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), for championing the historic Chips and Science Act. This legislation designates 31 EDA Regional Innovation and Technology Hubs, fostering expertise across the nation and bolstering U.S. economic and national security through investments in innovative technology and advanced manufacturing leadership domestically.
The award of an EDA Phase 2 Implementation Grant to the Spokane Aerospace Tech Hub will ensure we remain not just the global leader in aerospace manufacturing but will ensure we become the global leader in innovation and manufacture of the next generation of materials and processes used to build the future of air travel and space exploration.
For these reasons, the IAM urges support and prioritization of the Spokane-based American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center Technology Hub’s application for an Economic Development Administration Phase 2 Implementation Grant.
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is among the largest industrial trade unions in North America and represents nearly 600,000 active and retired members in the manufacturing, aerospace, defense, airlines, transportation, automotive, railroad, shipbuilding, woodworking, health care, and other industries.
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