Northwest Aerospace News June | July Issue No. 15 | Page 30

A
MISSION
ABOVE
Manufacturing
Chinook Enterprises in Mount Vernon, Washington, provides both high-quality aerospace manufacturing
and gives back to the community by transforming lives through employment partnerships.
By Brian Canfield, PNAA CEO
Aerospace manufacturing in the Northwest is rich in history and reputation, especially with the well-established
companies which are local staples. Celebrating 40 years of service, Chinook Enterprises continues
to innovate and find new ways to not only provide top-quality manufacturing, but also to be a pivotal player
in their community and make an impact in the lives of people. Chinook continues to find ways to give back
though both manufacturing and helping people with disabilities overcome the barriers to successful employment.
Chinook started producing parts in aerospace seven years after they opened in 1980. Over the years, they
have produced numerous airplane parts, including wiring, electrical assemblies, tubes and baffles, reusable
packaging, textiles, and assembly tools. Most recently they have expanded into sheet metal routing, bending
and forming. Chinook is part of a program at Boeing called Community Manufacturing Partnership, where
Boeing has selected a number of non-profit companies having community-centered missions.
30 NORTHWEST AEROSPACE NEWS