Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center

You guys were amazing to work with. We were treated so fairly, creatively and professionally. I so look forward to this being even bigger next year. Thanks so much!

Go Local Tacoma

Shift Happens (event)

-Patricia Lecy-Davis,

Event Planner

The name Tacoma stems from the Native American name for Mt. Rainier, "Tacobet," meaning "Mother of the Waters." The "City of Destiny" became Tacoma's moniker when it was designated as the Northern Pacific Railroad's western terminus for its transcontinental railroad in 1873. Today the city remains a destination spot, and more and more a choice location for growing businesses.

The city continues to capitalize on its status as a gateway to the Pacific Rim, and trade remains an important facet of business in the new Tacoma. The daily arrival and departure of ships in the harbor is a visual metaphor for the changing concept of the city of Tacoma. With each passing day, the city comes into contact with its global neighborhood and moves a bit closer to being a world-class leader in the new economy.

The Tacoma area has most recently become a magnet for hi-tech companies. Pierce County is home to dozens of firms including Russell Investments, Labor Ready, Columbia Bank, Boeing, State Farm Insurance, Sagem Morpho, Microchip Technology, SuperValu, Milgard Manufacturing, Da Vita and Recreational Equipment, Inc., or REI. These companies have corporate headquarters or major regional operations in the area.

Today, more than a century after Captain George Vancouver first explored its shores, Tacoma remains a destination spot with the amenities of a big city and the charm of a small town. An ever-changing community full of potential and excitement, Tacoma is poised to embrace the future.