NEWS
(OLYMPIA)– The state Commercial Aviation Work Group, which evaluates Washington’s future needs for commercial aviation and transportation, will host its first meeting of 2026 at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25, in SeaTac. The first meeting of the new year is the group’s ninth overall. The group recently submitted its 2025 report to the Legislature. Work group members will research alternatives for more aviation capacity and expanding the use of existing airports as well as opportunities with other forms of transportation. The work group is not tasked with siting or building a new airport. Those attending in person or online will have (read more)
(OLYMPIA)— Secretary of State Steve Hobbs has announced the Washington state recipients of the 2025 John Lewis Youth Leadership Award, Kiprey Kalume and Luna Esmeralda Perez. The award recognizes these outstanding youth for their commitment to civic engagement, social justice, and community empowerment, according to a news release from the Office of the Secretary of State. “Both of these individuals are doing fantastic work supporting their communities,” Secretary Hobbs said. “Their hard work and leadership ensure that more people feel empowered to participate in democracy and exercise their civic rights. It is an honor to present this award and celebrate their (read more)
(OLYMPIA)– The Washington State Department of Transportation Aviation Division is accepting applications for the second round of the 2025-2027 Airport Aid Grant Program. WSDOT anticipates awarding approximately $1.1 million in funding. Airports may only apply for projects previously submitted through the Statewide Capital Improvement Program (SCIP). The SCIP is a prioritized list of projects entered by Washington’s 134 public-use airports. It captures project requirements that address individual airport needs statewide, according to a news release from the Washington State Department of Transportation. To apply, airport officials can fill out the online application and airport aid application checklist. WSDOT requires that airport (read more)
(ANACORTES)— Skagit Valley College is proud to announce that Matthew Mardesich, Marine Maintenance Technology (MMT) co-department chair and instructor, has been named the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) Foundation’s 2025 Educator of the Year. The annual award honors outstanding marine service technology instructors teaching at the high school, post-secondary, or industry level who are making a significant impact on the next generation of marine technicians, according to a news release from SVC. ABYC announced the honor during its Educator Forum on January 28, 2026, a national event that brings together educators and industry leaders to strengthen marine technical education and workforce pathways. (read more)
(MOUNT VERNON)— The Skagit Valley College Board of Trustees voted unanimously to appoint Dr. Thomas Keegan as interim president of SVC at its regular board meeting held on Feb. 3. Keegan will begin his appointment on Feb. 9 and will serve through Dec. 31, according to a news release from SVC. Keegan previously served as president of SVC for 10 years and retired from the college in 2022. His return in an interim capacity brings valuable institutional knowledge and experienced leadership to the role, supporting continuity and stability during this transition period. “I am honored to return to Skagit Valley College and work alongside the (read more)