Board Member Highlight

Alissa Shay, the outgoing Chair of the Pacific Mountain Workforce Development (PacMtn) Board, has left an indelible mark on the organization through her dedicated service and passion for community development. Currently serving as the General Manager of the Satsop Business Park at the Port of Grays Harbor, Alissa brings a wealth of experience in business development and operations, overseeing the 1,800-acre business park in Southwest Washington. Proudly born and raised in Grays Harbor, Alissa returned to her roots after completing her education, obtaining a B.A. in Planning and Environmental Policy from Western Washington University and a Master of Public Administration from The Evergreen State College.

Alissa’s commitment to her community goes beyond her professional role. As the Chair of the Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Council, she actively engages in initiatives that bridge the gap between job opportunities and potential employees, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation. Her involvement extends to volunteering with the YMCA of Grays Harbor, serving as the Grays Harbor College Foundation Past President, and participating in “Harbor 100 Women Who Care.” Living in Montesano with her family, Alissa exemplifies the spirit of community service.

In a recent interview, Alissa reflected on her involvement with the Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Board and its Committees. She emphasized the personal and professional significance of serving on the board, citing her upbringing during a challenging period in Grays Harbor’s history. Alissa expressed pride in witnessing the board’s collaborative efforts, bringing together diverse voices from the five-county region to share success stories and create a unified vision for the future. As she beautifully articulated, “It’s meaningful to me personally and professionally to serve on the PacMtn board.”

Alissa’s impactful tenure as the outgoing Chair of the Pacific Mountain Workforce Development Board underscores her dedication to community well-being and economic growth. As she transitions from this role, her commitment to creating a visible impact on the lives of community members remains steadfast. In her own words, “The work of PacMtn is difficult because it is often invisible to the community, but the recipients of programming always feel seen.” This sentiment encapsulates the profound and often overlooked influence of workforce development initiatives on individuals and communities.

Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alissa-shay-3072748/