2026 Students of Distinction

Bruin Bear: From business to engineering to medicine, a well-rounded education

Gig Harbor Now is posting profiles featuring the Students of Distinction being honored by the Greater Gig Harbor Foundation. Peers, teachers or parents nominate students, who must be a graduating senior at a Peninsula School District school. A panel of community leaders selects students to be honored in one of seven categories: academics; athletics; career and technical excellence; community service; music, arts and drama; overcoming adversity; and science and technology.

These students will be celebrated during a banquet from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, May 20, at Ocean5, 5268 Pt. Fosdick Dr.

School: Gig Harbor High School

Category: Career and technical excellence

For Bruin Bear, Career & Technical Education became more than a pathway through high school — it became the foundation for discovering his passion for business, leadership, and service to others. Through four years of DECA and business-focused coursework at Gig Harbor High School, Bruin developed the confidence, discipline, and communication skills that now shape both his academic goals and future aspirations.

A four-time DECA state competitor and two-time international competitor in Business Law and Ethics, Bruin immersed himself in every opportunity available through the program. From studying business concepts in the classroom to working in the student store and competing at the international level, he found a passion for problem solving and higher education that continues to motivate him today.

Bruin Bear

“DECA has played an integral part in my high school career,” he says. “It shaped my career aspirations and my approach to academic goals.”

Outside of school, Bruin dedicated countless hours volunteering at St. Anthony Hospital, where he assisted medical professionals and supported patients throughout the hospital and emergency room. The experience strengthened both his interest in healthcare and his desire to give back to the community that has supported him throughout his life.

“I hope that my actions have helped the Gig Harbor community,” he says.

Bruin credits much of his motivation to his parents, whose work ethic and perseverance continue to inspire him during difficult moments. “Whenever I am faced with a challenge, I often ask myself how they would handle the situation,” he says.

His experiences in both the workplace and volunteer settings also helped shape his understanding of leadership. Working as a cook taught him the importance of teamwork, accountability, and leading by example — values he believes create environments built on mutual respect.

After graduation, Bruin will attend the University of Washington to study engineering before pursuing medical school and a future career in orthopedic surgery. He hopes to eventually use his education and skills to give back to the people and community who helped shape him along the way.