Port of Tacoma commissioners on June 20 unanimously approved a $30,000 investment in the Tideflats Certification Program run by Tacoma Public Schools, which will support doubling the capacity of this summer’s program to serve approximately 150 students.

The Port’s contribution assists the school district’s Jobs 253 program developed with the City of Tacoma to serve youth in robust experiences that enhance their future career aspirations. 

The new interlocal agreement with Tacoma Public Schools follows the commission’s August 2022 approval of a Workforce Development Strategic Plan.

“We are committed to growing the workforce of the future and highlighting opportunities on the working waterfront,” said Port of Tacoma commission president Deanna Keller. “This investment will open doors for more Tacoma students.”

The Tacoma Tideflats Certification program introduces high school students to career opportunities through hands-on field trips and puts them on track to earn industry certifications. The Port is directly involved in programs focused on merchant mariner and warehouse and logistics work.

In addition, the Port’s investment supports the district’s Career and Technical Education paths focused on environmental services, wildland fires, plumbing and pipefitting, electrical, aerospace, and drones.

Tacoma students can apply here for summer 2023.

The Port of Tacoma is expanding its partnership with Tacoma Public Schools. The Port and school district are in a joint planning and assessment process to develop and co-locate a new Port Maritime Center and Maritime|253 skills center on a parcel of Port-owned property.