RECAP: March 2024 Chamber After Hours

​The Port of Tacoma plays one of the most important roles in the cog that is Pierce County. It has been making history for well over 100 years and supports more than 42,100 jobs for our community at large. A handful of those employees were able to show us their day-to-day at our Chamber After Hours on March 21, 2024.

Over 70 guests made the trek through miles of shipping containers, railroad tracks, and semitrucks hauling precious goods to the Port of Tacoma Administrative Building to network the night away. The Port had a virtual reality headset for guests to wear, embarking on a journey through the Port and what it's like moving containers. Attendees noted the incredible experience and unique way to explore the nearly 2,500 acres which make up the Tacoma Tideflats.

The Port also displayed draft images of upcoming projects for attendees to review and inquire about. There were tables full of delicious charcuterie styled food and beverages provided by Georgio’s Catering Company and it did not disappoint.

Ryan Spence, Program Director for the Manufacturing Industrial Council (MIC), gave a brief speech to attendees regarding the Pierce Transit Runner program, as well as the relationship between the Port and the Chamber. Eric Johnson, Executive Director for the Port of Tacoma, also spoke more about the organization and showed an informative video highlighting the work that occurs in the Port.

The prize giveaway was drawn by Ryan's son, Jacob*, or also known as the “Tiny Apprentice” in his father’s work-world. Five lucky attendees won amazing prizes generously gifted by the Port of Tacoma.

If you were unable to attend this month's Chamber After Hours and are wanting to attend future events, we encourage you to register for our April Chamber After Hours. Please note that April’s After Hours is taking place on the second Thursday of the month (April 11, 2024; 5:00 - 7:00 PM; Tacoma Art Museum).

* Chamber After Hours is a 21+ event. Ryan is a Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber staff member and was given permission to bring his son.