Economic Alliance Snohomish County (EASC) proudly invites you to the 2025 Annual Meeting & Snohomish County Awards, presented by Boeing and Banner Bank. The event will take place at Tulalip Resort Casino (10200 Quil Ceda Boulevard Tulalip Bay, WA 98271) on Tuesday, April 22, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Get your ticket(s) now!

This event brings together business leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders to reflect on a year of impactful work driving economic vitality in Snohomish County.
As the largest economic development agency in the county and the state-appointed Associate Development Organization (ADO), EASC plays a vital role in strengthening the region’s economy through business attraction, retention, and expansion, workforce talent development, and advocacy efforts at the state and federal levels.
The event highlights EASC’s accomplishments over the past year, showcasing initiatives that support startups, connect businesses to government contracting opportunities, and foster global trade through export assistance. With a focus on creating a thriving and resilient economy, EASC continues to represent Snohomish County businesses in Olympia and Washington, D.C., ensuring their voices are heard in critical policy discussions.
EASC is honored to announce a keynote presentation by Director Joe Nguyễn of the Washington State Department of Commerce. During his presentation, Director Nguyễn will explore trade uncertainties, federal policy shifts, and emerging industries like fusion, quantum, SAF, and hydrogen. He’ll discuss strengthening key trade relationships, leveraging federal funding, and driving public-private collaboration to keep Washington’s economy competitive. Don’t miss these vital insights!
About Director Joe Nguyễn
Commerce Director Joe Nguyễn was born and raised in Seattle. His experiences as a life-long Washington resident and second-generation Vietnamese American make him an ardent champion for investing in Washington families and residents, expanding economic opportunities, and taking bold steps in our fight against the climate crisis.
Gov. Bob Ferguson appointed Joe as Commerce director on Dec. 27, 2024. He took the helm at Commerce on Jan. 15, 2025. Before that, he was a state senator from 2019-2024. In the senate, he chaired the Environment, Energy & Technology Committee and supported legislation for housing affordability, health care, public transit, climate, and education. He is a longtime advocate for working families and community members who are historically left out of the political process.
Joe grew up in White Center, attended high school in Burien and college at Seattle University. He now lives in West Seattle. He’s worked for Expedia and Microsoft, and has volunteered with organizations for homelessness services and law enforcement oversight.

Author: Lynnwood Times Staff