Building a Stronger Tacoma: Deputy Mayor Joe Bushnell Honors UEI Class of 2026
On April 17, the atmosphere in Tacoma was filled with a palpable sense of pride and achievement. The UEI College Tacoma Class of 2026 reached their milestone graduation day, and the community was there to cheer them on—led by City of Tacoma Deputy Mayor Joe Bushnell.
The Deputy Mayor joined the celebration to recognize the graduates not just for their academic success, but for the essential roles they are now prepared to step into across the Pacific Northwest.
A Celebration of Persistence
Reaching graduation day is rarely a straight line. Deputy Mayor Bushnell highlighted the “behind-the-scenes” effort that every student puts in to earn their diploma. He noted that the ceremony was a testament to the grit required to balance education with the demands of daily life.
“What you have accomplished really represents persistence, sacrifice, and deep commitment to your future and the future of our community,” Deputy Mayor Bushnell shared. “The work you’ve done to get here is no small feat and it’s not easy. It deserves to be fully recognized and celebrated.”
Essential Careers for a Thriving City
Beyond the personal achievement, the Deputy Mayor spoke to the broader impact these graduates will have. From healthcare to technical trades, the skills mastered at UEI Tacoma are the “gears” that keep a city running smoothly.
The Deputy Mayor emphasized three key areas of impact:
- Health: Our graduates are entering medical fields that provide vital care to our neighbors.
- Safety: The technical expertise of our tradespeople ensures our infrastructure and homes remain secure.
- Stability: Career-focused education provides the financial foundation for families to thrive.
“Each of you will play a vital role in keeping our communities functioning and thriving,” Bushnell added. “And these careers matter every single day because they directly support the health, the safety, and the stability of families and our communities.”
Your Future, Your Community
At UEI College, we are incredibly proud to see our students recognized by city leaders who understand the value of a skilled workforce. The Class of 2026 is moving forward with more than just a certificate; they are moving forward with the gratitude of a city that relies on their expertise.
Congratulations to our Tacoma graduates! You’ve shown the persistence needed to succeed, and we can’t wait to see you strengthen the heart of our community.
