Federal Way Chamber CEO Rebecca Martin (D-Federal Way) announced on Tuesday her candidacy for the Washington House of Representatives in 2020. She will seek the 30th District seat left open as current state Rep. Mike Pellicciotti runs for state treasurer.

A senior level executive, her 36-year career is focused on community growth with experience in economic development, education, small business, tourism and public sector entities. Martin has served as CEO of the Greater Federal Way Chamber since April 2014, increasing membership 10% year-over-year in the first four years of her tenure, according to Martin.

“I am honored to ask my community for their trust in bringing the success of our local chamber to the state government in advocating for an economy that works better for the citizens living and working in south King County,” she stated in a press release.

She said she is one of only 4% of chamber executives in the U.S. with the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) designation from the American Chamber of Commerce Executives and the only practicing CEO is the state of Washington with the CCE certification.

Martin noted her decision to run for office was influenced by the economic development projects the chamber began with state grant funding, which prompted a desire to do more for the region.

“Honestly, I was so energized working with our legislature, particularly Representatives Pellicciotti and [Kristine] Reeves, and am looking forward to the additional support Senator [Claire] Wilson will provide in the coming session.”

Prior to moving to Washington state, Martin was active in local, county and state government initiatives, as well as serving as an elected member of the school board in her hometown.

A resident of unincorporated King County, Martin is the mother of three adult children. She earned her Master of Arts from Gannon University and her Bachelor of Arts, magna cum laude, from Mercyhurst University.