The Roundtable works to effect positive change on public policy issues that are most important to supporting state economic vitality and fostering opportunity for all Washingtonians. That work includes sharing news and analyzing policy developments affecting our state.

Around the Table: Space Needle, McKinstry, Seattle Foundation, JPMorgan Chase & Co, Boeing, Starbucks

Space Needle reopens to visitors after safety upgrades

After investing $1 million in coronavirus-related safety upgrades, the iconic Space Needle has reopened to visitors with limited capacity. Staff installed ultraviolet lights to kill airborne viruses, eliminated the use of cash, and other safety measures. Masks are provided and required. Read more here.

McKinstry’s “Return with Confidence” service featured in the Puget Sound Business Journal

When clients began calling with questions about safely reopening their facilities during COVID-19, McKinstry launched its Return with Confidence services. The company evaluates the quality of buildings’ systems, such as plumbing systems, and advises owners and managers on next steps. McKinstry has provided these services for its clients as well as 50 other customers. Read the article here.

Seattle Foundation and JPMorgan Chase & Co participate in Civic Commons panel

A recent Civic Commons panel webcast that included Tony Mestres (President & CEO of the Seattle Foundation) and Phyllis J. Campbell (Pacific Northwest Chairman of JPMorgan Chase & Co) explored shared prosperity and how it can lead to equitable community change. They discussed the importance of cross-sector experiments like the Evergreen Impact Housing Fund, which works to create more affordable housing. Watch the webcast here.

Boeing welcomes high school students for manufacturing internship

Boeing held its first-ever virtual Core Plus Aerospace manufacturing internship for high school students this summer. Interns completed activities at home, built employability skills, and developed innovations to improve safety and quality work practices in their classrooms and school environments. At a virtual Innovation Fair, students pitched their ideas to Boeing leaders, educators, and a panel of judges. Read more here.

Starbucks highlights College Achievement Plan

A recent blog post describes how three Starbucks employees who are pursuing college degrees in organizational leadership and graphic information technology with the Starbucks College Achievement Plan, which offers benefits-eligible employees 100% tuition coverage for first-time degrees through Arizona State University. Since the program’s inception in 2014, more than 4,700 Starbucks partners have graduated from ASU and another 16,000 are currently working toward their degree.

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