MAY 1, 2018
CHAMBER TO ADVANCE BUSINESS
IN WASHINGTON D.C.
As the Voice for Business, the Chamber works strategically to influence policy at the local, state and federal levels, ensuring the South Sound remains the best place to do business in Washington state.

N  ext week the Chamber travels to Washington D.C. to participate in meetings with our Congressional delegation, military officials, and federal agency representatives to advance business at the 33rd annual Washington to Washington D.C . conference.

Community leaders and elected officials including US Senator Maria Cantwell , Congressman Denny Heck , Congressman Derek Kilmer , and Lt. Gov. Cyrus Habib will convene to discuss infrastructure & transportation, behavioral health, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, small business, and more!

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TACOMA CITY COUNCIL SEEKS YOUR EXPERIENCE
The City of Tacoma's Planning Commission makes recommendations to and advises City Council on vital issues impacting business including zoning measures, annexation, urban design, transportation, and the upcoming subarea plan.

The City seeks to fill three vacant seats. If you are passionate about improving the community, apply today. Applications close May 8th.
MEET TOM PIERSON
CHAMBER PRESIDENT & CEO
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT MUST FOCUS ON TRADE SKILLS
Over the next five years, construction, healthcare, and personal care will account for one-third of all new jobs. Most of these jobs pay more than the state's average wage of $54,000, and do not require baccalaureate degrees.

For business to remain competitive in technology and innovation, there needs to be an emphasis on focusing the workforce on trade skills like carpentry, electrical, plumbing, sheet-metal work and pipe-fitting.

DEVELOPING, ATTRACTING, AND RETAINING A SKILLED WORKFORCE
A skilled workforce is the #1 deciding factor for organizations looking to build, expand, or relocate their business to an area. 

Join the conversation at Chamber Luncheon as we engage with area leaders who are leading the way in developing workforce development and education programs that will lead to increased skills, job growth, and economic prosperity in the South Sound

THE GRADES ARE IN
The U.S. Department of Education released its annual Report Card, and there is room for improvement. To sustain a skilled workforce, educators and community stakeholders alike must invest earlier in students' lives.

SOUTH SOUND YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR HEADS TO NEW YORK
 
Colby Kurle, owner of Athletic Market, was selected as Tacoma's Young Entrepreneurs Academy Saunders Scholar to compete in semifinals. This week Colby, a student at Graham-Kapowsin High School, will travel to Rochester, NY to compete for a college scholarship and to be named America’s Next Top Young Entrepreneur.

BREWS FOR A BETTER TACOMA
Sit down for a beer (or other beverage) with District 5 Council Member Chris Beale  This is the perfect opportunity to have a casual conversation and discuss how to make the South Sound the best place to business in Washington State.

ENGAGE WITH THE MILITARY COMMUNITY
If military leadership, or those businesses who interact with the military are your target market, we have many opportunities coming up for you to increase your visibility and expand your network. 
 
At Military Affairs Forum engage with uniformed military and receive updates from Joe Piek, JBLM Public Affairs Officer.

Evergreen Fleet Cruise is the perfect opportunity to foster networking and community links between civilian and military leaders.

The Howard O.Scott Award recognizes the civic contributions of our Citizen-Soldiers (Airmen, Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen).
SHARE YOUR DATA
The Economic Census serves as the most comprehensive source of data related to business activity. By completing the Economic Census, companies contribute to a wealth of valuable data that can help grow YOUR business. s


SMALL BUSINESS, BIG DREAMS
The DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year Awards Program celebrates the success of small business and honors its contributions to America’s economic growth. If eligible, all applicants will be considered for the Dream Big Small Business of the Year Award.

EVENTS AND RESOURCES
Check Out the Chamber's Award Winning Video
TACOMA-PIERCE COUNTY CHAMBER
950 PACIFIC AVE SUITE 300 TACOMA, WA 98402
| 253.627.2175 | [email protected]| WWW.TACOMACHAMBER.ORG