Work

Photo courtesy of Keith Nelson

Pullman is open for business!

The business community of Pullman is largely made up of services, manufacturing and retail, with a growing segment of technology businesses (see Palouse Knowledge Corridor). Countywide, Government is the largest employer with Washington State University leading the public sector in number of employees. Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, a growing electronics manufacturer, is the largest private employer and has helped to diversify the economy previously supported largely by the University and agriculture. This diversification means the economy is, in general, fairly stable.

The service, retail, construction, and financing businesses cater to locals as well as the University crowd, students and faculty. The area is growing in tourism popularity due to PAC 10 (now PAC-12) sports at WSU and to the areas geographic and photographic nature. This tourism supports the hospitality and retail business throughout the year.

Workforce is highly educated due to two research universities in the region with a new batch of graduates each spring. Undergraduates help to provide part time employees, but fulltime beginning wage workforce is tight. Many employees travel from the smaller towns or from the Lewiston, Clarkston Valley to the south.

Housing is affordable by national standards, and supply varies from historic pioneer homes to new and custom construction. Rural, small town options are nearby in addition to the traditional housing subdivisions found in the heart of Pullman.

Electricity is abundant and reasonably priced due to Washington’s hydroelectric dams on the nearby Columbia and Snake Rivers.

Industrial sites are available in Pullman through the Port of Whitman County. Commercial options are available and the Chamber maintains a list of real estate and developer contacts to help guide your search.

Excellent healthcare, schools and outdoor recreation are abundant. For more information contact the Pullman Chamber of Commerce at 509-334-3565.