The Port of Tacoma is a key economic engine for the region, directly and indirectly supporting more than 42,000 jobs and contributing nearly $3 billion in economic activity annually. Its strategic location and robust infrastructure make moving goods throughout the Pacific Northwest and beyond essential.

As a commissioner, I will help grow the Port strategically and responsibly, while maintaining a strong workforce, environmentally sustainable operations, and communication between all stakeholders. 

Maintain and grow a Strong Workforce

It’s the people who make the Port strong. As an educator for over 30 years, a longtime DECA mentor and advisor, and a union member, I know firsthand the value of preparing individuals with the skills they need to excel in their roles. 

I am passionate about expanding training programs that connect Pierce County residents with jobs in port-related industries.  I also fully support developing and promoting programs like the Tacoma School District’s Maritime 253 Skills Center and partnering with local institutions that train and empower skilled labor.   These types of partnerships will enhance workforce recruitment and retention, offering a pipeline to viable jobs for generations to come.

I believe it’s vitally important we treat the workforce fairly and provide opportunities for family-wage careers.  Doing so benefits the Port, its workforce, and our communities and is just smart business.

environmentally friendly

Sustainability is key for the Port’s long-term success, and my focus is on environmental stewardship so the Port remains viable for many future generations.  

As such, I’m dedicated to ensuring that the Port continues transitioning operations to renewable, green energy while reducing emissions.  I will use my business administration and economic development background to help identify innovative and cost-effective solutions that help minimize the Port’s carbon footprint.  And I will draw on years of marketing experience to help effectively promote sustainable business practices and initiatives.

As your Commissioner, I will positively impact the Port’s environmental sustainability, for both our sake and the benefit of future generations.

communication with all stakeholders

For over 30 years, I’ve navigated through often complex relationships between students, parents, administrators, and community members.  These experiences have helped hone my abilities for leadership, collaboration and teamwork, conflict resolution, networking, and more importantly, effective communication.  These are all critical skills I will bring as your commissioner. 

I’m committed to sustaining and maintaining strong, respectful relationships with all current and future stakeholders of the Port.  This includes the Puyallup Tribe, longshore workers, local government agencies, and the community members I represent. Most importantly, I value open communication and collaboration with my fellow Port Commissioners. I believe in listening, gathering information from diverse voices, and working together to make informed, balanced decisions that serve the best interests of the Port and the people who depend on it.

RANDY’s Four-Year Plan:

Workforce Development, Environmental Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement

  • I will advocate for support in establishing workforce partnerships with local training institutions, labor organizations, and industry leaders to expand career pathways in logistics, maritime trades, green technology, and skilled labor—sectors critical to Tacoma’s economic resilience. Through the Port Career Awareness Campaign, I will assist in formalizing efforts to connect students and job seekers with leaders in clean energy innovation, maritime infrastructure, and environmental sustainability.

    At the same time, I will prioritize open, transparent communication with all stakeholders—including the Puyallup Tribe, local businesses, labor unions, environmental advocates, and community leaders and members to foster collaboration on policies that balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.

  • I will support the development of apprenticeships and internship programs in collaboration with unions and employers, focusing on high-demand roles such as electricians, crane operators, mechanics, and marine technicians, with an emphasis on green technology training. Expanding dual-credit and apprenticeship programs will prepare local workers for jobs in emerging clean energy industries, ensuring long-term economic sustainability.

    I will also work to deepen relationships with stakeholders to integrate environmental priorities into workforce expansion. Strengthening collaboration with the Puyallup Tribe, local government entities, and industry leaders will ensure that Tacoma remains economically competitive while leading in maritime decarbonization.

  • I will assist in formalizing structured career pathways in logistics, marine operations, construction trades, green energy technology, and IT, ensuring that local talent is equipped to drive Tacoma’s transition toward a low-emission port economy. By building employer partnerships, I will help align workforce training with the growing demand for clean energy solutions in port operations

    I will also work to embed stakeholder input into the Port’s decision-making process, shifting collaboration from consultation to active participation in shaping sustainable development policies. I will champion investments in cleaner infrastructure, shore power expansion, and carbon reduction strategies to secure the Ports long-term economic and environmental leadership.

  • I will support tracking key workforce and environmental impact metrics, including job placement rates, wage growth, clean energy job growth, and emissions reductions, ensuring measurable success. An annual workforce and sustainability impact report will be published, showcasing key achievements and community stories.

    Additionally, I will promote the Port of Tacoma as a model for workforce innovation and green maritime leadership, ensuring our position as a national hub for clean industry, job creation, and sustainable growth.