In recognition of his years of significant contributions to Bates Technical College, worker retraining and skilled trades industries throughout the state, John Thompson has been named the recipient of the 2005 Bates Builders Award. On November 17, Thompson will be honored at the annual Bates Builders event at Bates’ South Campus, 2201 South 78th Street, Tacoma, 4:30 to 7:00 pm.

Thompson has been an active member of the Bates’ General Advisory Committee since 1993 and has worked tirelessly for worker retraining and school-to-work initiatives at both the local and state level. Thompson is instrumental in developing apprenticeship and journeyman opportunities between Bates and local industry, and continues to be a strong advocate of technical education and life long learning.

The Bates Builders Award annually recognizes a member of the community who has been an integral partner in building programs, advocating for the institution and providing volunteer leadership and support to the college. Contributions to the Bates Builders Fund, a partnership between the Bates Foundation and the community, provide scholarships and other support for students who might otherwise be unable to pursue their education at Bates Technical College.

For more information and to purchase tickets to the Bates Builders Award event, contact the Bates Technical College Foundation, (253) 680-7102.