John McCarthy is a Port of Tacoma Commissioner who is focused on job creation, expanding future trade opportunities, and the Port’s ongoing environmental stewardship of the Tacoma Tideflats. He played a key role in developing the 2021-2026 Strategic Plan, guiding the Port’s future projects and activities. 

McCarthy has been elected to four terms as Port Commissioner: 1983-1989, 1989-1992, 2018-2021, and currently 2022-2026.  

McCarthy began his career as a longshoreman while earning a bachelor’s degree in science with a minor in mathematics from Seattle University and a law degree from the University of San Francisco. He has been an attorney and member of the Washington State Bar Association since 1975 and served as a Pierce County District and Superior Court judge for more than 22 years before retiring in 2014. McCarthy is a former president of the Washington Public Ports Association and an honorary life member. 

Born and raised in Tacoma, McCarthy continues to reside there, volunteering at Mount Rainier National Park and officiating high school football games. He was the first member of the Boys and Girls Club of South Puget Sound to be inducted into their Alumni Hall of Fame. 

Port of Tacoma Committees  

Northwest Seaport Alliance Work Groups 

Outside Boards & Committees