Observing a large, complex organization like the Port of Olympia is like watching a conductor work musical magic on stage. But unlike attending the symphony, where showing up with a trumpet is frowned upon, the Port welcomes community input thanks to the Port of Olympia Community Advisory Committee (POCAC). Applications are now being accepted and everyone is welcome to apply for an open three-year term. The application window closes July 31, 2026.
Make Your Voice Heard on Port of Olympia Projects Impacting Land, Sea and Air
The Port of Olympia’s economic and geographic footprint includes Swantown Marina, Swantown Boatworks, the working waterfront’s bustling Seaport, Olympia Regional Airport and plentiful commercial real estate holdings.
The Port’s Executive Director Alex Smith says their entire management team is excited to kick off this recruitment period. “POCAC is a group of volunteers who advise the Port Commission on community, economic and environmental initiatives in Thurston County,” explains Smith. “We welcome anyone with an interest in the Port, the public waterfront and economic development to apply. We also encourage people from throughout Thurston County to apply so the Commission can be advised by a group that represents the perspectives of the County as a whole.”
POCAC volunteers apply to and are selected by the Port of Olympia Commission. Applicants must be Thurston County residents who show an interest in the Port’s work and community engagement, have the ability to consider community-wide perspectives, possess relevant knowledge or expertise and commit to participate in regularly scheduled POCAC meetings and task force gatherings.
Apply to be a Port of Olympia Community Advisory Committee Volunteer Today
Smith says that having a variety of residents on the POCAC Committee gives a real-world voice to local decision-making, ensures the community’s perspective is heard, builds a stronger and more interconnected community and produces truly meaningful, lasting work to benefit generations.
If an individual meets the criteria for volunteering, chosen candidates will then be interviewed by a Port Commissioner, Executive Director Smith and POCAC’s current Chair. To get started, simply fill out the online application form and Port officials will follow-up with the required next steps.
Once chosen, sample duties include attending monthly POCAC meetings—which are capped at two hours so you won’t be asked to sacrifice your entire evening—and working on topical, often shorter-term sub-committees and event planning groups.
Potential applicants can explore recent agendas and minutes from POCAC meetings online and even watch past meetings via the Port’s YouTube channel. The Port also keeps a list of community hot topics and welcomes public comment online or in-person at both monthly Commission meetings.
Helping Build a Strong, Vibrant Thurston County for Generations to Come
To follow the Port of Olympia’s interwoven symphonic-style workday, sign up for email updates on a variety of topics. These range from simple all-inclusive newsletters to details about the Budd Inlet Cleanup and Restoration, Airport Master Plan, Destination Waterfront Development updates or even notice of incoming vessels to the Port’s deepwater seaport.
The Port also hosts community-wide events like Movies at the Marina and Summer Nights at the Port, both of which are free, family-friendly and make the most of stunning waterfront views on balmy summer nights.
To continue their expansive outreach and community-building mindset, other Port-promoted events include fan-favorites like Procession of the Species, the Olympia Wooden Boat Festival, the Olympic Airshow, Capital City Pride, the Olympia Dragon Boat Festival, Harbor Days and Oly on Ice.
If you’re interested, able and eager to help, consider becoming a member of the Port of Olympia Community Advisory Committee. Everyone’s voice is important in building a representative future and economy throughout Thurston County.
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