Aerospace Jobs: Shield AI is building its AI-piloted X-BAT fighter jet production facility in Des Moines, a project projected to bring $300M+ in direct investment and hundreds of high-paying jobs to the Puget Sound region. AI & Permitting: A Seattle software veteran launched Kolmo.io/permits, an AI tool that translates local building and zoning rules into plain answers with direct links to official text across dozens of jurisdictions. Tech Deal: Seattle voice-AI startup Ultravox (formerly Fixie) was acquired by Inworld, aiming to improve real-time voice turn-taking for AI agents. Minimum Wage: Washington’s minimum wage will rise to $17.73 an hour in 2027, with Seattle hitting $22.14, plus higher pay floors for transportation network drivers. Local Labor Oversight: King County is considering a new Office of Labor Standards focused on unincorporated areas, starting with outreach and education but teeing up future “modern labor standards.” Energy Policy: The Washington Supreme Court reinstated electrification legislation after striking down Initiative 2066, a move that could reshape power demand and building rules as data centers expand. Healthcare Innovation: Perspective Therapeutics said data for its [212Pb]VMT01 melanoma program was accepted for presentation at SITC 2026. Casino Expansion: Tulalip Resort Casino completed a 70,250-square-foot expansion and renovation, adding 400 slot machines and new dining and bar upgrades. Public Safety Tech: Drone incursions disrupting wildfire firefighting are up sharply in 2026, with Washington accounting for the most reported incidents.