Some Inland Northwest-based manufacturers are starting to experiment with artificial intelligence to combat an ongoing skilled worker shortage and to improve operational efficiency.

Laura Galloway began her new role as dean of Whitworth University’s School of Business on July 1 after relocating to Spokane from San Diego, where she previously worked for University of Massachusetts Global, a California-based online institution, most recently as associate vice chancellor for institutional curriculum, assessment, and academic policy.

Spokane staffing agencies are hopeful that hiring activity will strengthen in the months ahead, but the types of positions filled may look different than a few years ago, as employers place greater emphasis on skills, adaptability, and experience over traditional credentials such as college degrees.

Construction is underway on new synthetic turf athletic fields at a pair of Spokane high schools, part of the Together Spokane initiative that is expected to bring stability for architects, engineers, and contractors in the region.

OneAEC, a Spokane-based nonprofit serving architecture, engineering, and construction professionals, is preparing to transition into a new regional chapter of Alexandria, Virginia-based Society for Marketing Professional Services in 2027.

As behavioral health patients at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center age and their medical needs grow more complex, the hospital is redesigning its staffing strategy for inpatient psychiatric services. 

Whitworth University will launch its new Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in fall 2027 to address the growing need for trained nurses across the Pacific Northwest.

Washington state is on the leading edge of a demographic shift that is placing pressure on senior housing providers, long-term care operators, healthcare systems, and developers as the state's aging population grows substantially faster than the workforce and housing inventory needed to support it.

Ten years ago, when the University of Washington and Gonzaga University announced a strategic partnership to expand health sciences education in Spokane, they were met with community and legislative support.