At the heart of Reay’s legacy is the belief that we are stronger together as a community and it will continue to guide us as we enter this next chapter.
 
We’re excited to watch Reay share her enthusiasm, passion, and light as she shines in her new role. We look forward to collaborating again in the future as she brings her integrity and passion to her new role at the Washington Hospitality Association.

Welcome to the new members who joined our business community in July 2025:​
​

• Crescite Innovation Corporation
• Inspire Leadership Facilitated by Joe Harvison
• Lucid Electrical Services, LLC
• Milestone Mortgage Solutions, LLC
• Miss Laufer
• Page & Pine Bookshop
• Rainier Family Wealth, Inc.
• RSG Abatement and Demolition
• Strong Law Accident and Injury Attorneys
• The Mail Room
• The UPS Store 7972 Steilacoom
• Tommy's Express Car Wash
• Upwell Ventures
• ZenBusiness

July 2025’s Chamber After Hours highlighted two of the Chamber’s most engaging programs: Spaceworks Tacoma and the Manufacturing Industrial Council (MIC) for the South Sound to set the stage for the Chamber’s latest endeavor. The Willamette Building – home to  Spaceworks Incubator alumni – will be a hub for businesses that participate in the new Tacoma Manufacturing Incubator.

The Tacoma Manufacturing Incubator aims to reduce barriers in the manufacturing sector by providing technical assistance, access to capital, workforce development, education, and scalable manufacturing spaces for both emerging and established manufacturers. It will be administered by the MIC in partnership with Clover Park Technical College and Horizon Partners Northwest (Willamette Building owners).

Since 2010, the Spaceworks Incubator has provided relevant and meaningful business training for first-time business owners, ambitious creative professionals, and folks passionate about making Tacoma a great place to live and work. To date it has supported over 400 local creative entrepreneurs with 84% of its incubator alumni still in business. The Spaceworks Incubator is the framework that is being applied to the new Tacoma Manufacturing Incubator.

“Working through a Spaceworks cohort was a game-changer for my small business,” said Andy Vargo, owner of Own Your Awkward. “I knew going in that there would be resources and a framework to better set myself up for success, but the most meaningful part of the experience has been becoming part of a community that supports the journey of our local creative entrepreneurs.” 
Construction has begun on turning the 225,000–sq-feet warehouse into functional, modern manufacturing studios. The construction includes an upgraded freight elevator, loading dock, and windows for the building.

The Chamber is grateful to have the opportunity to support emerging entrepreneurs, and we thank the July Chamber After Hours attendees for taking the time to attend and learn more about its newest initiatives.

Unique Northwest representative Nathan Sission took to social media sharing, “This was an awesome event tonight put on by [the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber]. Tons of awesome manufacturers here in this awesome incubator inside the old Willamette Casket factory building. Working hard to keep manufacturing jobs here in the South Sound.”

"I feel like [the new manufacturing incubator] is one of the best possible solutions to keep Tacoma at the forefront of the manufacturing industry. Small businesses need assistance getting off the ground now more than ever, and programs and facilities like this are invaluable,” said Sission.

The Chamber would like to thank STINK & El Tufo Wine Bar for providing refreshments and invites the community to its new location at 909 A St, Tacoma, WA 98402.

If you haven’t already attended a Chamber After Hours and you are interested, mark your calendar for August 21, 2025, from 5:00-7:00pm. The Washington State Fair Event Center will be hosting our crowd in The Upper Lodge building.

If you’re curious about the role Spaceworks and the MIC play in Tacoma’s creative economy or the manufacturing sector, please sign up for our newsletter, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

The Chamber’s annual Happy Hour Business Expo took place on June 26, 2025 with over 86 vendors in attendance to showcase themselves at the Foss Waterway Seaport in Tacoma’s Thea Foss Waterway to an eager crowd of over 500 guests. 
 
“The [Happy Hour Business Expo] was so well put together! Great energy, smooth flow, and a perfect setting for making real connections,” shared attendee Star Roffe. “You could feel the intention behind every detail from the welcoming vibe to the thoughtful touches. Big thanks to the organizers for such a meaningful and fun evening!”
 
This year’s robust vendor list included Pierce County Business Accelerator alumni, businesses centered around wellness for the Aura Alley, along with Chamber members old and new.
 
Aura Alley was a division of the event focused on enhancing the atmosphere and energy for all attendees. Amongst the vendors there were flash tattoos, wellness scans, and vitamin injections. Guests could take home a new botanical friend, have their aura captured in photos, and more. Overall, Aura Alley was well received by guests as hundreds flowed through the space through the course of the evening.
 
The playlist for the night was performed by local singer/songwriter Emily Riehl and her band. Riehl’s sound was fresh and uplifting, pairing well with the overall upbeat vibe of Happy Hour Business Expo.
 
Food Court goers sampled cuisine from eight unique vendors -- each one a Pierce County Business Accelerator graduate. There was a mix of sweet treats and savory bites, and beverages were served by Odd Otter Brewing Co. in tandem with Court House Square.
 
“This was my first time coming to a [Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber] event. I am glad I did come because it was nice meeting other business owners, as well as networking with others who I can see continuing a professional relationship with,” said guest Astrik Price.
 
Following the main festivities, vendors were invited to the official Happy Hour Business Expo after party at Zeeks Pizza. There was a mobile axe-throwing trailer outside for the adrenaline seekers, and upstairs on the balcony Owner Michael Goronkin graciously offered food and an incredible giveaway prize to end the night: a trip to Whiskey Jack located in the north end of Whistler for up to 6 guests, for 8 days and 7 nights.  
 
Happy Hour Business Expo was an evening of high-energy networking, bold local business showcases, and unbeatable views for hundreds of local professionals and community members who came to connect, discover, and celebrate the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of our region.  
 
The Chamber wishes to extend their gratitude to the event sponsors: Pierce County Business Accelerator, Zeeks Pizza, Business Health Trust, Gesa Credit Union, Prime Commercial, Pierce Transit, LeMay America’s Car Museum, Puget Sound Energy, GTM Transformations LLC, Showcase Media, Theory Real Estate, and United States X Advisors Washington LLC.
 
If your business is an active Chamber member and would like to get involved with Happy Hour Business Expo or any other Chamber events, please email [email protected] with your inquiries.

The Chamber’s 2025 Washington-to-Washington, D.C. Conference (WA2WA) recently wrapped up with 42 Pierce County leaders, including business, civic, and elected officials, gathering in the nation’s capital for high-impact conversations and strategic collaboration.  

Now in its 39th year, WA2WA continues to be a cornerstone of South Sound leadership, creating meaningful opportunities to engage directly with federal policymakers, strengthen regional partnerships, build cross-sector relationships, and advocate for the issues that matter most to our community. 

Relationships matter—in business and in politics. Through this annual trip, we strive to cultivate and sustain authentic, lasting connections. These relationships are the foundation for true collaboration—empowering us to tackle shared challenges, champion pragmatic policies, and implement solutions that help the South Sound thrive both regionally and globally. ​

Highlights from the Hill 

​Over two-and-a-half days, our delegation met with a bipartisan group that included: 

• Nine of Washington State’s twelve elected representatives 

• Canadian Embassy officials 

• The U.S. Chamber of Commerce 

• Regional partners from Spokane, Seattle, and Portland ​​​

• Protecting Medicaid and Medicare, especially with federal proposals that would disproportionately affect rural and lower-income districts, including Washington’s own. Congressman Dan Newhouse highlighted that 40% of his constituents rely on Medicaid and the need to protect the program.  
• Maintaining and expanding critical infrastructure funding through reauthorization of the Surface Transportation and Coast Guard bills—Congressman Larsen called a “partnership in a sea of partisanship”. Leaders agreed: infrastructure means jobs and any delay places shovel-ready projects and economic growth at risk. 
• Federal permitting reform, with business and energy leaders stressing the need to modernize bureaucratic processes to unleash clean energy innovation and broadband expansion. 

​Meaningful conversations also took place on U.S.-Canada relations, especially relevant given the Prime Minister’s visit to D.C. during the delegation’s time there. Senator Cantwell encouraged regional leaders to “keep going,” reinforcing the importance of export-driven growth and trade alliances.  

Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland shared insights on navigating a shifting political landscape while continuing to advocate for Pierce County. 

Meanwhile, Congressman Adam Smith talked about the difficulty of navigating national security in a rapidly changing international landscape. Everything from tariffs to international aid impacts our security and stability.  ​

Economic Resilience & Local Innovation 

​Delegates also explored deeper themes around economic transformation. From maritime to manufacturing to nuclear innovation, there was shared urgency around: 

• Preparing the region for 40% population growth by 2050 with expanded transit options and housing flexibility. 

• Green economy job pathways, including waste-to-profit models, clean fuels, and partnerships like the Blair Waterway project with the Puyallup Tribe, which will create over 50 union jobs. 

• A “skills-forward” approach to workforce development that prioritizes earn-while-you-learn programs and leverages institutions like the Eastside Training Center, JBLM, and the Tacoma Anchor Network 

University leaders and economic development officials alike emphasized the need for local control of funding, stronger public-private alignment, and doing what’s right for the next generation—especially as education equity, access, and online learning remain top-of-mind. 

These conversations helped shape a deeper, shared understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our region. You can learn more about the Chamber’s advocacy efforts here. ​

Energy & Innovation Frontiers 

A strong theme throughout the trip was economic resilience through innovation and energy transformation. From nuclear to maritime to digital infrastructure, the delegation heard repeated calls for: 

• Federal permit reform as a prerequisite for clean energy buildout 

• Expanded support for green economy job pathways and smart grid investment 

• Recognition of the maritime sector’s national security role, including Tacoma’s Blair Waterway deepening and the Port’s collaboration with the Puyallup Tribe to bring 50+ union longshore jobs online 

​Senator Cantwell also noted export growth under the Biden administration and the need for congressional authority over executive trade actions. ​

Investing in Leadership and Community 

Alongside eight local elected officials, several Chamber board members joined the trip as attendees and sponsors: 

• Eddie Bratko, MultiCare Health System 

• Eric Johnson, Port of Tacoma 

• Christine Nhan, Puget Sound Energy 

• Ryan Wheaton, Pierce Transit 

• Rich White, The Boeing Company 

We are grateful to our 2025 sponsors, whose generous investment made this experience possible: MultiCare Health Systems, The Port of Tacoma, Alaska Airlines, The Boeing Company, Regenerative Industrial, Lightcurve, TOTE Maritime Alaska, Pierce Transit, Seattle FIFA World Cup 2026, Puget Sound Energy, and Sound Transit. ​

Looking Ahead to 40 Years

As we continue building partnerships and advancing collective impact, the connections and discussions from this year’s WA2WA trip will continue to inform our work. They deepen our understanding of the South Sound’s diverse needs and the opportunities ahead. 
​
Beyond the policy briefings and Capitol Hill meetings, attendees also found time to connect over D.C.’s incredible culinary scene—strengthening relationships that will fuel continued collaboration. With more than 90% of attendees indicating they plan to return, the value of this long-standing tradition is as strong as ever. 

As we prepare for WA2WA’s 40th year, we’re inspired by emerging opportunities in transportation modernization, clean energy, workforce development, and federal procurement reform. These themes point to our region’s potential as a national model for collaboration, innovation, and inclusive economic growth. ​

The David Schroedel Leadership and Advocacy Scholarship is awarded to an individual who exemplifies the Chamber’s core values and has demonstrated a commitment to civic engagement. Candidates for the scholarship are selected based on the following criteria:

• A clear alignment with the Chamber’s mission and values, including a dedication to fostering a thriving business environment.
• A demonstrated interest in public service and a strong desire to engage in leadership roles within the Tacoma-Pierce County region.
• A proven track record of supporting business interests, advocating for economic growth, and contributing to the local business community.

By focusing on these parameters, the scholarship ensures that recipients are well-positioned to make a meaningful impact through the Candidate Academy program and in our community.

Jessica Johnston has been selected as the inaugural recipient of the David Schroedel Leadership and Advocacy Scholarship for their exceptional commitment to community leadership and advocacy.

Johnston currently serves as the Director of Court House Square in downtown Tacoma. She also serves as an ambassador for the Chamber; on the Board of Director for the Downtown Tacoma Partnership as its Vice President & Treasurer; and as a Board Chair on the City of Tacoma’s City Events and Recognitions Committee. Johnson is passionate about many timely issues that our region faces, including government transparency and accountability, small business stability and growth, public safety, and mental health services.

Through this scholarship, Johnson will gain access to valuable mentorship, training, and networking opportunities in the Chamber’s Candidate Academy taking place on Saturday, March 8, 2025. This program serves as a launchpad for emerging leaders, providing them with a deeper understanding of the civic landscape and the skills necessary to drive meaningful change.

“The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber is dedicated to cultivating leadership that strengthens our community,” said Schroedel. “By investing in individuals who are passionate about advocacy and public service, we are ensuring that our region continues to thrive. We congratulate Jessica on this well-deserved honor and look forward to seeing her impact.”

​Johnson shares, "I am honored to have been awarded the David Schroedel Leadership and Advocacy Candidates Academy Scholarship, and I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber and the selection committee for their support. The Candidate Academy has equipped me with invaluable insights and resources that will elevate my leadership and advocacy efforts in Tacoma. I extend a special thanks to David Schroedel for his dedication to developing future leaders.
This scholarship reinforces my commitment to public service, and I am excited to implement the lessons I've learned to drive meaningful change in our community. Thank you for this amazing opportunity!"

Join us in celebrating Jessica Johnston and the future of leadership and advocacy in Tacoma-Pierce County!

Learn more about becoming a Chamber member here.

The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber (TPCC) held its annual Horizons Economic Forecast at the Greater Tacoma Convention Center in downtown Tacoma on Wednesday, January 29, 2025.

Rising with the sun were more than 400 people in attendance. The agenda was set for attendees to learn more about the 2025 economic projections nationally and for Pierce County. Attendees began the morning by networking during Coffee Connections sponsored by Commencement Bank; tehaleh; Virginia Mason Franciscan Health; and educational organizations: Bates Technical; Tacoma Community; Clover Park Technical; and Pierce College, before they were seated for breakfast. Formal programming kicked off with a literal bang via a performance from the talented youth of Lincoln High School Drumline.

Over a seated breakfast guests heard from a handful of speakers including Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland; Congresswoman Emily Randall; Port of Tacoma Commissioner Position #2 Dick Marzano; Pierce County Executive Ryan Mello; Neal Johnson, Ph.D. of Sound Resource Economics; and Keynote Speaker Angelo Kourkafas, CFA® Senior Strategist, Investment Strategy at Edward Jones. Following opening remarks and insights, Tom Layson, Managing Editor & Producer-Host of Northwest Now, KBTC Public Television, led a Q&A with Mr. Kourkafas and Dr. Johnson regarding pressing economic issues that face the region and nation.

The event featured emcees Andrea Reay, President and CEO of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, and Kierra Phifer, Board Chair for the Chamber and Public Engagement Manager Northwest for DoorDash. David Schroedel, Executive Vice President of the Chamber gave a heartfelt tribute to Dr. Bruce Mann, a beloved Economics professor at the University of Puget Sound who passed in October 2024 and contributed over the past several decades to the community and Horizons as an expert and teacher.

Guests received a copy of the Pierce County Economic Index Report for 2025 at the event. This report is a pivotal tool for understanding the county's economic health and prospects. The report, authored by Dr. Johnson, highlights a mix of growth and challenges alongside trends in GDP, labor markets, housing, and retail sales, while forecasting moderate growth and ongoing challenges for key sectors in 2025.

“This PCEI Report gives our members the insights they need to navigate the year ahead with resilience while acknowledging the headwinds still facing Pierce County. While we’re seeing progress in personal income and job creation, challenges in housing affordability and retail spending underscore the lingering effects of high interest rates and inflation,” said Andrea Reay, President & CEO, TPCC. “We hold a cautiously optimistic outlook for Pierce County. From job creation to housing affordability, this report helps our community take informed steps toward building a stronger, more equitable economy. Our commitment is to ensure that businesses—big and small—have the tools to succeed.” ​

If you have not already filled out our post event survey, please do so. You may find the survey available online here.

We are always looking to expand what we have to offer Pierce County as we strive to make the South Sound the most equitable, inclusive, and thriving place to do business in Washington State.

Thank you to everyone who spent their morning with us. We hope to see you at our next event soon!​