Stokespace CEO says company will deliver rocket to Cape Canaveral as state eyes launch capability

Andy Lapsa, identified as CEO of Stokespace, thanked the governor and called Washington "a birthplace of an incredible and diverse set of globally impactful companies." Lapsa said the state must act on permitting, energy and infrastructure to allow new companies to scale quickly.

Lapsa said STOKE is "about to deliver a rocket to Cape Canaveral for the first time," and noted that the vehicle was designed and built in Washington and can be tested in Moses Lake. He framed that milestone as evidence that the state can compete for hardware, but warned that other states are also seeking industry investment.

Lapsa's remarks focused on the need for decisions and processes that let hardware move from design to launch quickly; he said those operational inputs are what will determine how long Washington's runway for the industry remains open.