Alumni Spotlight - Glen Bachman

Glen Bachman, International Trade & Commercial Developer

Glen Bachman began his journey in international trade and commercial development by first attending EvCC. Now general manager of the Everett Mall and a commissioner for the Port of Everett,Glen credits EvCC educators and counselors with guiding and encouraging him. “As a result, I learned professionalism and the ability to think critically,” he says. “My time at EvCC helped me in my career today by encouraging me to take risks and face challenges.” 

Tell me about your family: where you grew up, and did you have brothers or sisters?

I grew up in West Seattle with my two sisters and mother & father.

Did your parents go to college and did they encourage you to attend college?

Both my parents left school before completing. Unfortunately we didn’t have the funds for college, so it was never in the plan. They were very supportive when I was finally able to work it on my own.

When and where did you graduate from high school?

I graduated from Chief Sealth High School in 1965.

How did you choose EvCC? Was there a selection process involved in your decision making?

I’m a Viet Nam veteran and when I completed my military time, I moved to Snohomish County, returned to work at the Boeing Company, and started evening classes at EvCC. EvCC was always in my plan during my duty in Viet Nam.

Do you think your time at EvCC helped you pursue your current career? How?

I most certantly do, by being encouraged to take risks and face challenges.

What did you do after you left (or graduated from) EvCC?

I transferred my credits to Eastern Washington University.

Did you ever envision your current career while in college?

Yes, the vision and goal setting have brought me here.

What courses or activities did you find to be most valuable and how did they help prepare you for your professional career or success in life?

Finance, law, and managerial activities (e.g., DECA).

Was there anyone during your time at EvCC who acted as a mentor for you? Tell me about that relationship and why it was valuable.

Bob Buck, finance department. Always full of encouragement, advice and would even stop by my apartment to check on homework progress.

Any moments that stood out as especially memorable while at EvCC?

The time I made the Dean’s list.

What is your lasting impression of EvCC?

Committed and caring.

What helped you stay motivated, both in school, and in your career?

Educators, counselors and department heads.

What do/did you find rewarding about it?

I apply many skills on a day to day basis, and deal in international trade.

What do/did you find most challenging?

Lease and contract negotiations.

Would you do anything differently if you had the chance to do it all over again?

I would study more real estate issues.

What were your keys to success?

Step up to a challenge' don’t fear new assignments

What words of advice would you give to current EvCC students?

Get involved with scholastic activities outside of regular class study.

From this vantage point in life, what do you care about the most?

Public service and giving back.

Alumni ad published 12/23/2013