
HYPE is a series of quarterly events including professional development workshops and on-campus job fairs designed to support students in discovering and enhancing their professional skills, ultimately helping them reach their career aspirations. It allows students to connect with Pierce College staff and program management, providing valuable insights into the paid job opportunities available on campus.


What's In It For You?
Campus Jobs Offer
- Flexible Schedules (Part-time Commitments)
- Earn Where You Learn (Save On Gas)
- Supportive Team Environment
- Paid Training
- No Experience Necessary
- Leadership Opportunities
- Resume Builder
Winter HYPE Job Fair and Keynote
Come join us for cookies, cocoa and career advice! Considering a student job or simply curious what a job fair entails? This is your chance to visit with campus departments to learn about their hourly, work study, and volunteer positions or simply learn more about that department. We will also have tables there to assist you with interviewing skills, resume review, work study questions and more! Attendance is free and many departments may be offering interviews and applications on the spot. This term we will be joined by our special keynote speaker, Samuel Kaplan.
Date and Time
Puyallup
- Date and Time: Wednesday, February 12 - 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Keynote: 12 p.m.
- Location: College Center Building - 2nd Floor Lobby and Connection Cafe
Fort Steilacoom
- Date and Time: Monday, February 10, 2025 - 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Keynote: 12 p.m.
- Location: Cascade Building - 4th Floor Performance Lounge
About Samuel Kaplan

Sam Kaplan is the Director of the Center of Excellence for Global Trade & Supply Chain Management at Highline College. As a 20-year veteran of the Trade and Development Alliance (TDA) of Seattle, Sam Kaplan spent many years as the President of the organization. During his tenure, Sam was engaged in promoting, connecting, and educating individuals on international trade for businesses in the Greater Seattle region. He oversaw the organization, led the Global Cities Initiative, organized a visit by President Xi Jinping, and spearheaded efforts to create an International Competitive Strategy for Washington State.
Sam is also the author of Challenging China: Smart Strategies for Dealing with China in the Xi Jinping Era, a book that provides insights and practical strategies for navigating the complexities of engaging with China in today’s global landscape.
Sam is deeply committed to connecting students to their industry of choice, particularly in global trade and logistics. Through his work, he has become a strong advocate for preparing students for the challenges and opportunities ahead, ensuring they are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this dynamic field. His efforts include the development of a mentorship program in collaboration with the Transportation Club of Seattle and Highline College, Shoreline Community College, and Lake Washington Technical Institute. He also founded the Follow the Supply Chain Study Abroad Program in Vietnam, giving students a unique opportunity to explore the intricacies of global supply chains firsthand.
With Sam’s extensive knowledge in global trade, he is also a business owner, managing an international consulting firm, Gittes Global. The firm provides business development, communications, and community/government affairs services for businesses and organizations. Gittes Global also publishes a weekly newsletter titled International Need to Know.
In his leisure time, Sam enjoys traveling and has explored much of the world. His work has allowed him to engage extensively with Asia and Europe, further fueling his passion for international affairs and trade.