The task was to build one tiny house and fix up two more. 

The bigger project was to build careers. 

As Palmer Pathways scholars worked on the tiny houses in a corner of the Clover Park Technical College campus, they got an intensive introduction to every aspect of construction, learning skills to launch their work in the trades. 

With the workforce aging, and demand high for skilled labor, participants can see the possibilities. 

“We need a younger generation to come in and pick up trades, pick up the work,” said Jeremiah Anderson, who served as shop lead for his cohort. 

Palmer Pathways, an initiative of Palmer Scholars, is a free pre-apprenticeship for young adults of color in Pierce County who are disconnected from work and higher education and have an interest in pursuing a career in the trades. 

Jamara Matlock is interested in framing, tiling, and painting. 

Over 15 weeks, she learned a wide range of skills.  

“Every day, every week, is always different,” Matlock said  

The hands-on experience helps scholars earn several certifications that are crucial for getting work. 

“Going through Palmer Pathways puts you at the top of a lot of lists,” said scholar Marco Villagomez Keating. 

There’s also classroom learning, with a focus on resumes, interview techniques and, especially, math. 

Trades instructor Ron Werre teaches skills like fractions and reading a tape measure. 

He also sets high expectations. 

“When they come out to the job site, and even in the classroom when they're with me, it's run as a business,” Werre said. “They're on time. 15 minutes early is on time, on time is late, and late is not acceptable.” 

The training is available to more people after Workforce Central contracted with Palmer Pathways to expand the program using funding provided by the Port of Tacoma’s workforce development program. 

“We saw the Port of Tacoma’s mission really wanting to foster new growth in the industry,” said Christian Reed of Workforce Central. 

In December 2023, Port Commissioners approved a contract with Workforce Central to expand paid work experiences and internships in the trades. 

As of early November 2024, 57 people from throughout Pierce County participated in the program, and at least 43 had already found employment.  

“It's just one of the many things that we can do at the Port of Tacoma to help our community,” said Commissioner Deanna Keller, who came to congratulate Palmer Pathways scholars as two cohorts graduated in October. 

Scholar Jeremiah Anderson spoke at the ceremony, and said he had already accepted a full-time position, starting at $32 per hour. 

“I appreciate this program and what it's done for me in so many ways,” Anderson said. 

The Port’s investments and partnerships are guided by its Workforce Development Strategic Plan. 

Port staff members regularly attend job fairs and provide tours for high school students that include demonstrations and conversations with maintenance department employees about career paths. 

The Port hosts the Tacoma Youth Marine Foundation on its property and provided funding to help bring its training vessel into compliance.  

And the Port and Tacoma Public Schools expect to break ground next month on the Port Maritime Center project along the Foss Waterway, which will include the Maritime|253 skills center beside a new Port business office. 

Maritime|253 will provide career and technical education to students from across Pierce County.