Mission
Bates Technical College enriches our diverse communities by inspiring student learning, challenging greater achievement, and educating for employment.
History
Learn. Grow. Transform.
Founded in 1940, Bates Technical College is a proud member of Washington state's 34 public community and technical college system. For more than eight decades, the college has provided our region with accessible, affordable and quality educational programs that lead students to careers, and employers to well-trained employees. Originally a part of the Tacoma School District, the college began offering technical education to aid war efforts in the basement of an East Tacoma elementary school.
Initially named Tacoma Vocational School, the institute was a vital training location for the area. The site helped meet demand for skilled workers who would support the World War II defense effort.
When longtime Director of Vocational Education Laverne Bates retired, the school board changed the school's name to Bates Vocational Technical Institute.
A 1991 state bill removed vocational schools from local school districts and set them under the community college system. Today, Bates Technical College has grown to three vibrant Tacoma locations offering more than 50 degree and certificate programs, providing our graduates with a competitive workplace edge in a wide range of career disciplines.
Our employees embody the college mission to enrich our diverse communities by inspiring student learning, challenging greater achievement, and educating for employment.
Residents of Pierce County and beyond choose Bates as their educational partner because we offer affordable educational opportunities for everyone, from certificates, certifications, Associate of Applied Science, and Associate of Applied Science-Transfer degrees, to adult education, lifelong learning and high school completion options.
Connect with us.
Bates Technical College Foundation
BatesTech.edu/Foundation
Bates Technical College Foundation exists to support student and program success by securing resources through building community relationships and awareness. Through this nonprofit organization, local businesses, community members and Bates employees contribute to the foundation, providing over $250,000 annually in scholarships, grants, faculty development opportunities, program support and emergency student assistance.
Advisory Committees
Advisory Committees
Some 500 individuals serve on 45+ program advisory committees. These committee members represent partnerships with business, labor and industry; provide curriculum recommendations to the college; and often offer program equipment, scholarships and career opportunities for students.
Career Education
Unique classroom settings mirror the workplace, providing students with opportunities to practice and develop skills to levels required for successful employment. Students in specific programs gain hands-on experience in campus facilities.
Diverse Populations
Our students and employees come from diverse backgrounds, races, religions and points of view. The ages of students in any given class might range from 16 to 60 and can be high school students just starting their educational or career tracks, or people returning to college for a career change or to update their skills.
Diversity Statement
Diversity supports the mission of Bates Technical College. Respecting and promoting diversity is vital to the education of our students and to the learning environment of our campus community. We foster an atmosphere where each of us is valued for our intellectual and cultural perspectives, increasing our ability to reflect critically and resolve challenges. We share a wealth of experiences that strengthens us individually and as a society. As students and educators, we commit to building a diverse and engaged community.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Taskforce
BatesTech.edu/DEI
Faculty, staff and students make up the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Taskforce. Members play a significant role in the development of strategies and best practices regarding diversity, equity and inclusion.
The purpose of the taskforce is to develop and promote best practices that create a more inclusive and equitable college community. The work of the taskforce will help the community educate, promote and support diversity in its broadest sense – including with respect to race and ethnicity, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, language culture, national origin, religion, age, disability status and political perspective.
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