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Community Programs

Understanding Tacoma's Local Employment and Apprenticeship Training Program (LEAP)

By Daniel Rodriguez |
Construction Workers

Content current as of 05/06/26

Local Employment and Apprenticeship Training Program

The Local Employment and Apprenticeship Training Program (LEAP) offers Tacoma residents pathways to gain skills and secure roles on city-funded projects. The initiative strives to create equitable access to training, resources, and jobs that enable residents to achieve higher earnings.

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LEAP's effectiveness relies on continuous collaboration with trade professionals, contractors, community groups, educational bodies, and city personnel. This partnership ensures alignment with the program's objectives.

The advisory body, known as the LEAP Advisory Committee (LAC), conducts regular evaluations and monitors progress. Members include representatives from labor unions, contractor associations, educational institutions, and city officials.

Accountability is maintained through biennial reports presented to key city leaders, detailing achievements and future goals.

Program Vision: To empower Tacoma residents—especially those in economically challenged zones served by Tacoma Public Utilities—with the training and assistance needed to fulfill apprenticeship criteria and obtain well-paying positions within the construction sector.

Contact Details

Deborah Trevorrow
Workforce and Economic Development Analyst

Phone: (253) 591-5590

Email: leap@[SITEURL]

747 Market Street
Tacoma, WA 98402

Office Hours:
7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Projects receiving public funding require contractors to hire local workers, prioritizing residents from designated economically impacted zones. A portion of labor hours must be filled by certified apprentices under state-approved programs.

For projects exceeding $1 million, additional apprentice usage mandates apply. Registered apprentices residing within specified areas qualify for both primary and secondary requirements simultaneously.

Contractors submit LEAP Utilization Plans during pre-construction phases. Non-compliance incurs penalties, though waivers may be granted at city discretion.

Local Employee Requirements Apply To:

  • Civil projects over $250,000
  • Building projects over $750,000
  • Service contracts at City locations

LEAP Apprentice Utilization Requirements Apply To:

  • Projects over $1 million
  • High-value service contracts at City sites

LEAP Washington State Apprentice Utilization Requirements Apply To:

  • Projects outside TPU jurisdiction over $1 million
  • Major civil or building initiatives
  • High-cost service agreements
LEAP Requirements Flowchart

Explore LEAP Events and Resources

LEAP organizes numerous events, job fairs, and training sessions. For comprehensive details, visit the official LEAP Events and Resources portal.

Learn More

LEAP Advisory Committee

The LEAP Advisory Committee (LAC), established by council resolution, reviews program operations and proposes enhancements. Voting members are appointed by city leadership and reflect diverse stakeholder interests.

Public meetings occur quarterly at the Tacoma Municipal Building or via Zoom. Applications for membership are available online.

Meeting schedules and documents are accessible through linked PDFs. Additional resources include program requirement summaries, zip code lists for eligibility verification, and digital forms.

Contact Information

Deborah Trevorrow
Workforce and Economic Development Analyst
Phone: (253) 591-5590
Email: leap@[SITEURL]
747 Market Street
Tacoma, WA 98402
Office Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.