Aerospace Futures Alliance Welcomes New Lobbyist and Board Members

January 2, 2025 - The Aerospace Futures Alliance (AFA) is thrilled to announce the addition of Jennifer Ziegler to the team as our new lobbyist. Jennifer brings over 25 years of invaluable experience in legislative and government relations. Her career highlights include serving as staff counsel to the Senate and House Transportation Committees, Government Relations Director for the Washington State Department of Transportation, and Governor Christine Gregoire’s Transportation Policy Advisor. As the owner of Jennifer Ziegler Public Affairs, she has cultivated a wealth of expertise in advocacy and policy development. Additionally, Jennifer’s active involvement with the Washington State Bar Association, the Association of Washington Business, and her board roles with the Washington Department of Transportation Memorial Foundation and the Washington Highway Users Federation further demonstrate her commitment to public service and policy excellence.

We are also delighted to welcome Michael Catsi to the AFA Board of Directors. Michael is the President & CEO of the Economic Development Board for Tacoma-Pierce County (EDB), a nonprofit focused on fostering local business success and attracting new companies to the region. With a career spanning leadership roles, Michael’s experience in economic development is unmatched. Originally from Sydney, Australia, he holds certifications as a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) and Development Finance Certified Professional (DFCP). His dedication to regional growth and economic advancement will be invaluable to AFA’s mission.

Joining the board as well is Matt Poischbeg, Executive Director of the Washington Aerospace Training & Research (WATR) Center. With over 20 years of experience in plastics manufacturing, Matt’s leadership and advocacy for workforce development, particularly in aerospace and apprenticeship programs, have significantly impacted the industry. His insights and commitment to training the next generation of aerospace professionals will greatly enrich AFA’s efforts.

AFA is excited to welcome Christian Weinmann to the AFA Board of Directors. Christian chairs Karr Tuttle Campbell’s business department, which includes expertise in mergers and acquisitions, finance, government contracts, real estate, and tax. His practice focuses on serving as outside general counsel to diverse companies and leading mergers and acquisitions transactions. With deep experience in corporate governance, contract negotiations, and various aspects of business law, Christian’s expertise will provide AFA with exceptional legal insight.

AFA looks forward to the valuable contributions each of these distinguished individuals will bring to advancing our mission and strengthening Washington’s aerospace industry.