LEGISLATURE 2025-26 / DAVE PAUL: Named Washington STEM legislator of the year
State Representative Dave Paul (D-Oak Harbor) posted this to the news section of his legislative website on Nov. 7, 2025.
OLYMPIA – Yesterday, Washington STEM named Rep. Dave Paul (D-Oak Harbor), Chair of the House Postsecondary Education and Workforce Committee, as its 2025 Legislator of the Year. The award recognizes his work to make education and career pathways more accessible for students across the state.
This year, Rep. Paul led the passage of HB 1273, which helps more students obtain and use the Career and Technical Education (CTE) dual credits they can earn in high school. Many students earn these credits but can’t afford the fees needed to apply them toward a college degree or technical credential. The new law extends a pilot program that removes those financial barriers and requires the state to report on how to keep improving dual credit programs.
Rep. Paul shared, “it is an honor to receive this award. Without students, teachers, and community partners, it wouldn’t be possible to drive this work forward. STEM jobs exist in every part of Washington, and every student – no matter where they live or their background, deserves a fair shot at those opportunities.”
Rep. Paul also supported legislation that expands financial aid and keeps higher education within reach. Lawmakers broadened eligibility for the College Bound Scholarship, lowered the age requirement for tuition waivers in high school completion programs, and encouraged local “promise” scholarships. He also highlighted the Washington College Grant – currently the largest state financial aid investment in the country, as key to helping more people pursue education and training.
“Working together, we can connect education to real opportunities and help families and communities thrive,” Paul said. “I’m grateful for this honor and excited to keep building a stronger future for all Washingtonians.”
Representative Paul won this award in 2022 and is the first two-time awardee of the WA STEM Legislator of the Year.
