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- Message from the Executive Director
- Q2 2025 At a Glance
- Commissioners' Corner
- Pride and Progress: Big Bend Community College Celebrates Growth, Community Impact, and a Legacy of Success
- News from Around the Region
| | | Message from the Executive Director | | | | |
The past quarter at the Port has been remarkably busy. From the successful adoption of an Industrial Development District (IDD), to honoring a solemn anniversary and hosting a world-class airshow, we have been at the heart of a number of transformative, and sometimes moving, events. Workforce development initiatives continue to evolve in new ways, so we’re pleased to offer an update on Big Bend Community College in an interview with President Dr. Sara Thompson Tweedy, as well as events appealing to some of our youngest future leaders. On to the IDD.
On June 23rd, the Port Commission unanimously approved a resolution to establish an Industrial Development District (IDD). The IDD will provide a new framework (unique to port entities) for public-private partnerships, allowing the Port to work closely with economic development partners and businesses to develop necessary infrastructure and support services. The Port will be able to facilitate initiatives more efficiently than other government entities, allowing us to expedite processes more effectively and without imposing added tax burdens on our constituents.
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Commissioner Kent Jones said it well in a story that appeared in the Columbia Basin Herald, “We’ve had enough success that we’re spending most of our resources now trying to provide the support (and) the infrastructure that all of these businesses are going to have to have, because we don’t have it now. If we can add another (option) to that tool chest for our staff and the county and the city to work with us, we’ve got to have it. Because that’s where we are right now, and I think we’re going to be there for the foreseeable future.”
My applause and gratitude to the Port Commission, our executive team, and economic development partners for supporting this forward-looking resolution.
On June 23rd, the Port hosted a delegation from Japan Airlines to commemorate the tragic anniversary of a plane crash here that claimed the lives of three pilot trainees in 1969. Together with port commissioners, former Port Executive Director David Bailey, and Moses Lake city council members, we honored the loss of Junichi Murata, Kunitsugu Kawase, and Toshiaki Yoshida. The service was a profoundly moving testament of these young pilots’ legacy and the enduring bond between Moses Lake, Japan Airlines, and Japan.
This November, we will celebrate a significant anniversary at the Port of Moses Lake. November 2nd will mark 60 years since constituents unanimously voted to establish a port district, and we are brainstorming exciting ways to commemorate this milestone. Stay connected with us through our social media and website as we unveil more celebratory plans.
| | Commission President Darrin Jackson and Mr. Ken Hayasaka, Japan Airlines Deputy Senior Vice President, Flight Operations Department, placing flowers at a memorial for pilots lost in 1969. | | |
Speaking of celebrations, this year’s Moses Lake Airshow was absolutely amazing. With thousands in attendance over the two-day family-friendly event June 20th and 21st, the skies were alive with jaw-dropping spectacles. What struck me the most, however, is the people who made it happen. Join me in expressing gratitude to the Moses Lake Airshow team, supporters, volunteers, presenting sponsors Boeing, Gesa Credit Union, the City of Moses Lake, and partner sponsors Basin Pacific, Million Air, Inland Tarp & Liner, and Central Washington Asphalt. What a testament to the power of community. May we have more successful air shows in the years ahead!
As we reflect on this past quarter, it’s clear that the Port of Moses Lake continues to be a catalyst for growth, remembrance, and community engagement. From pioneering infrastructure initiatives and honoring meaningful anniversaries to hosting extraordinary events that bring us together, we remain dedicated to shaping a prosperous and connected future. Thank you to everyone—our partners, supporters, and community members—whose ongoing collaboration and commitment make these achievements possible. We look forward to the exciting opportunities ahead as we continue to serve and strengthen our region.
| | May 12: Commissioner Kent Jones (left) with Mr. Hiroshi Nishida, President and CEO of Fuji Chemicals Industries (center), and Executive Director Dan Roach (right). Fuji Chemicals is the parent company of Port tenant, AstaReal. | | May 16: Port Commissioner Kent Jones (left) and Grant County Commissioner Cindy Carter (right), meeting with Mr. Hisashi Uchida, Administrator, of GCIA's sister airport in Toyoyama, Japan. | | May15: GCIA hosted videographer Lee O’Connor, producer of a short film about John F. Kennedy’s visit to the Port in 1963. In the photo above, O'Connor and Aiport Director, Richard Mueller, stand in the spot President Kennedy stood. | | May 19: GCIA hosted over 100 students from the Ephrata School District. Students learned from Million Air, Boeing, Big Bend Community College, AeroTec, Port Fire and Rescue, our own Maintenance Department, and North Central ESD. | | June 14: Port leadership attended the Paris Airshow with Washington State Department of Commerce and 20+ Washington companies and economic development organizations showcasing aerospace innovation. | | June 20: Port commission-hosted a VIP breakfast opening day of the Moses Lake Airshow welcoming Moses Lake City Council, County Commissioners, County Sheriff Joey Kriete, and Representative Tom Dent. | | |
June 20-21st: Moses Lake Airshow another success. Attracting thousands of attendees, the event featured world-class aerial performances alongside a national short takeoff and landing (STOL) competition, pictured above.
| | June 30th: Industry Day at Boys & Girls Club of Moses Lake, where partners hosted STEM activities for kids of all ages. Our thanks to Boeing, Samaritan Healthcare, Sila, Group14, and Grant County Sheriff's Office for a fun afternoon of learning about exciting Port district careers. | | | Summary Update of Commision Activity at the Port of Moses Lake | | |
Industrial Development District (IDD)
The Port Commission has passed a resolution to establish an Industrial Development District (IDD). This initiative is expected to boost economic activity, create jobs, and enhance the overall competitiveness of the port region.
Airport Operations
In addition to hosting another successful Moses Lake Airshow event June 20-21, U.S. military training exercises, essential for upholding a high degree of readiness and effectiveness, continued throughout the quarter at Grant County International Airport (GCIA). GCIA also hosted Ephrata Elementary School children for an afternoon of interactive aviation industry experiences and career insights from Port tenant aerospace companies and education partners.
Budget and Planning
The Port of Moses Lake’s Comprehensive Scheme of Harbor Improvements (CSHI) is anticipated to be reviewed by the Port Commission in July/August. The CSHI, required by state law, is a long term planning document that provides direction and incorporates the Port's 5 year strategic plan.
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Engagement
Port leadership attended the Paris Airshow, hosted the VIP/elected officials reception at the Moses Lake Airshow, and partnered with the Boys & Girls Club of the Columbia Basin for an Industry Day event. Port leadership also participated on the Moses Lake Chamber of Commerce Board, Grant County Economic Development Council Board, and will be sponsoring the Grant County Fair Roundup Rodeo. Grant County initiatives, such as power, water, and workforce development, continue to be top priorities during discussions with elected officials, as well as with business and opinion leaders at various community forums.
Capital Dollars
The West Terminal Apron Reconstruction Project has been successfully completed, reinstating access to the ramp and runway. This improvement opens up new business opportunities now that the area is accessible.The total cost of this capital project was $3.7 million.
The 8,000 sq/ft storage shed for our Maintenance dept is complete, and the ribbon-cutting ceremony held May 23rd. Total cost was $1.5 million.
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New maintenance shed completed with
ribbon cutting May 23, 2025.
| More Commission Activity here. | | Pride and Progress: Big Bend Community College Celebrates Growth, Community Impact, and a Legacy of Success | | |
By: POML Staff Writer
Big Bend Community College genuinely stands out as a symbol of growth, community involvement, and workforce achievement. This year, the college celebrated its largest graduating class in history, a milestone that President Sara Thompson Tweedy attributes to the resolute staff, supportive faculty, and a community deeply invested in student success. The college's innovative programs have contributed substantially to this achievement, making Big Bend Community College a vital institution for local workforce development and community empowerment.
Dr. Tweedy said, “Big Bend is a unique environment in that you know everybody is really invested in our students.”
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BAS Degree Programs with Industry Roots
In addition to a BAS in Applied Management degree, Big Bend is about to launch its second bachelor’s degree—this time, in Behavioral Health. “We have a full cohort for our Bachelor of Behavioral Health,” Dr. Tweedy said, adding. “What I love about both of our applied management and behavioral health programs is that these are built in partnership with business and industry leaders, local government, and local people who are saying here's what we need from Big Bend, and Big Bend is working to bring it to life.”
As for a substantial number of students at Big Bend, Dr. Tweedy said, “They’re either already employed, supported while they're going to school, or they're employable almost immediately when they finish. We collaborate with our community to build programs so that we’re supporting our local economy.”
Maintaining Strong Programs and Community Connections
Other Big Bend programs have also evolved to meet workforce demands. Current and ongoing programs including aviation, healthcare, and STEM offerings are designed with input from local employers to ensure students are workforce-ready or prepared for further transfer education. “We're constantly working with the community to find out what employers’ needs are and how we can make sure that our students are coming out of our programs workforce ready. If it's a direct transfer degree, we’re ensuring that those students are also ready for a four-year program at another college or university. We’re making sure that they're successful,” Dr. Tweedy said.
Expanding Reach in Local Communities
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Dr. Sara Thompson Tweedy
President
Big Bend Community College
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Recognizing the importance of reaching remote communities, Big Bend is engaging with migrant farmworker families to support GED and high school completion. Big Bend has also established satellite programming in other communities including Mattawa, Othello, and Quincy. In Mattawa, for example, Big Bend launched commercial driver’s license training through a partnership with Skillsource. In Mattawa, Othello, and Quincy, Big Bend is delivering early childhood education courses in Spanish to meet local needs, helping families by supporting working parents.
In Othello, Mattawa, and Quincy, college staff are collaborating with high school teachers and staff to expand dual credit programming allowing students to earn college credits towards a postsecondary degree before graduating high school. “We want to build a clear pathway into college for students who might face barriers to access,” Dr. Tweedy said.
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“If your business is asked to join an advisory committee, don’t pass up the opportunity. It’s not a huge time investment for what we all get out of it.”
~ Dr. Sara Thompson Tweedy
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Building Community and Industry Partnerships
Industry involvement is vital to the college’s mission, and according to Dr. Tweedy, it’s how we build our local economy. Local businesses and industry leaders currently contribute through advisory committees that keep curricula aligned with labor market needs. Support extends to scholarships as well. Dr. Tweedy encourages industry participation in workforce development, emphasizing that collaboration benefits everyone. She said, “If your business is asked to join an advisory committee, don’t pass up the opportunity. It’s not a huge time investment for what we all get out of it.”
Proud Moments and Legacy
According to Dr. Tweedy, a great source of pride is the people who make educational dreams realities for their inspiring students. “We are changing people’s lives,” she said.
Lives transformed, from students beginning in English language classes to earning their bachelor’s degrees, to meeting muti-generational graduates at commencement this year, truly exemplify the college’s deep impact on individuals and the community it serves.
“I had a student come up to me after the ceremony and they're with their parents and grandparents and there’s this legacy of Big Bend graduates standing in front of me. I was standing with three-four generations of people who graduated here, and all local. They’re running the businesses in this community and they're contributing in positive ways. Those are some of the things that make me super proud,” she said.
Employers who wish to engage their businesses in workforce development initiatives are encouraged to reach out to Michelle Morley, Dean of Workforce Education, at michellem@bigbend.edu.
| | News From Around our Region | | |
Moses Lake Airshow showcases aviation on all scales
Columbia Basin Herald
| June 25, 2025 – The wind wasn’t powerful at the Grant County International Airport on Saturday — just enough to make papers blow around and sweep the occasional hat away — but it was enough to make some pilots happy. | | Photo courtesy: Columbia Basin Herald | | |
Industrial development district to stretch from Warden to north of Moses Lake
Columbia Basin Herald
| June 23, 2025 – Port of Moses Lake commissioners voted unanimously Monday to establish a district designed to give port officials more flexibility when working on development projects. Commissioner Kent Jones said the new Industrial Development District will help meet the demands of current and future development in the district. | | Photo courtesy: Columbia Basin Herald | | |
Port of Moses Lake eyeing industrial development district
Columbia Basin Herald
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June 10, 2025 – Port of Moses Lake officials will have a public hearing at 10 a.m. June 23 to get public reaction to a proposal to form an industrial development district. The port’s attorney, Frank Chmelik, said an industrial development district would give port officials more flexibility.
“You pick up a few more powers for industrial development, is essentially what happens,” Chmelik said.
| | Photo courtesy: Columbia Basin Herald | | |
Port of Moses Lake opens new maintenance facility
Columbia Basin Herald
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May 27, 2025 –Port of Moses Lake commissioners cut the ribbon Monday on the new maintenance facility completed this spring.
“It’s the new storage building for our maintenance department,” said Facilities Director Milton Miller. “Currently, we store excess equipment in a building that we want to tear down.”
The $1.4 million building was funded entirely by the port and is about 8,000 square feet.
| | Photo courtesy: Columbia Basin Herald | | |
RTX Hybrid-Electric Flight Demonstrator program achieves full power test milestone for propulsion system and batteries
Columbia Basin Herald
| June 16, 2025 –Pratt & Whitney Canada announces a new milestone in the RTX Hybrid-Electric Flight Demonstrator project, by testing the integrated propulsion system and batteries to full power. While ground testing of the hybrid-electric propulsion system continues in Longueuil, Quebec, Pratt & Whitney Canada has selected AeroTEC to support future flight testing of the De Havilland Canada Dash 8-100 experimental aircraft. Pratt & Whitney is an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business. | | | |
Energy Science Days help students learn about renewable energy
Columbia Basin Herald
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May 26, 2025 –The Moses Lake School District participated in the Energy Science Days, hosted at Big Bend Community College last Wednesday for fifth-grade students.
“This used to be the solar car races, but they expanded it this year,” MLSD Director of Public Relations Ryan Shannon said. “They really built in more of the STEM education, Energy Sciences, so kids had the opportunity to listen and learn with hands-on activities.”
| | Photo courtesy: Big Bend Community College | | |
Big Bend expanding BAS programs
Columbia Basin Herald
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May 16, 2025 –Big Bend Community College has added new Bachelor's in Applied Science programs in the last few years and updated existing programs to meet the needs of local businesses.
“Big Bend strives to empower our students to achieve their dreams, but also to strengthen our community. By collaborating with local businesses and industry, we can create enriching educational opportunities that benefit both our students and the community we serve,” said Dr. Sara Thompson Tweedy, President of Big Bend Community College. “Both of our bachelor’s programs were created out of a need we saw locally in our service district of Grant and Adams counties.”
| | Photo courtesy: Big Bend Community College | | |
Lawmakers Approve Nearly $40 Million for Critical Water Infrastructure Project in Grant, Adams and Lincoln counties
SourceOne News
| April 28, 2025 –Eastern Washington’s agricultural communities received a major boost this week after the Washington State Legislature officially passed its 2025-27 Capital Budget, securing nearly $40 million to advance the EL 22.1 Water Infrastructure Project. The project aims to address groundwater depletion and promote long-term agricultural sustainability across Grant, Adams, and Lincoln counties. | | Photo courtesy: East Columbia Basin Irrigation District | | |
Sila Begins the Commissioning of its Moses Lake Plant, a Major Milestone on the Path to Becoming Fully Operational in 2025
Sila
| April 28, 2025 –Sila, a next-generation battery materials company, today announced the start of the commissioning phase for its first auto-scale manufacturing plant in Moses Lake, Washington–Sila Moses Lake. This first processing unit starting commissioning marks a major event in the plant’s construction and start-up process. | | Photo courtesy: Sila Nanotechnologies | | | |
7810 Andrews N.E. Suite 200
Moses Lake, WA 98837
Phone: 509.762.5363
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