Greater Washington features one of the world’s most extensive and competitive aerospace, defense, security and intelligence clusters. A historic stalwart of the Greater Washington economy, this industry continues to fuel regional employment growth.
The aerospace and defense industry is propelled by human capital, including computer software analysts, engineers, and technicians. Greater Washington has nearly 125,000 workers in aerospace, defense, and engineering-related occupations, the fourth highest number among the country’s largest metropolitan areas.
In 2008, the leading occupations in the aerospace, defense, security and intelligence industry included computer software engineers, computer systems analysts, and mechanical engineers. Approximately 2,500 aerospace engineers work in Greater Washington – the second highest concentration of such workers in the US.
Download the Aerospace and Defense Industry Overview for an industry analysis that highlights Greater Washington’s position as a hub for aerospace and defense companies, with access to the Pentagon, numerous military installations, federal agencies engaged in aerospace and defense work, and an unparalleled workforce.