Back in 1984, the tech scene in Washington was vastly different from what we see today when the Washington Technology Industry Association emerged.
Microsoft was a burgeoning company in Bellevue, and a few Seattle-based software startups like AttachMate and WRQ were just getting started.
The industry was still in its infancy but showed great promise. A group of visionaries recognized the potential of this burgeoning sector, seeing the necessity for support and growth.
This led to the formation of the Washington Software Association, which eventually evolved into the WTIA.
“They sought to unite the industry. They sought to grow the industry,” Ed Lazowska, a longtime computer science professor at the University of Washington, remarked at the WTIA’s 40th anniversary event on Tuesday. “They aimed to persuade civic leaders and citizens that … we could become a national, global force in software. Their vision has proven quite successful.”
Microsoft has since scaled to become the third-most valuable company in the world, and Amazon, the state’s largest employer, redefined online retail and cloud computing.
Washington has become home to a wave of significant companies in software and other tech-driven sectors, including Tableau, Zillow Group, F5, Expedia Group, and many others.
Now, a new wave of startups, highlighted by the GeekWire 200 list of top privately held companies, continues to strengthen the tech presence in Washington.
Today, Washington’s tech industry accounts for about 21% of the state’s GDP and has generated around 3.5 million jobs, as per WTIA’s data, showing its ongoing role as a key pillar of innovation in the region.
WTIA functions as a nonprofit member trade association alongside an allied for-profit corporation that offers business services. It provides health insurance and 401(k) plans to tech businesses and entrepreneurs.
There will be a leadership change next year with Michael Schutzler, the longstanding WTIA CEO, announcing his retirement.
Under his leadership starting in 2013, Schutzler refocused WTIA towards enhancing workforce development and assisting startups via public policy initiatives and entrepreneurial programs.
“We transformed it into a mission-driven organization, veering away from being only member-driven,” Schutzler said at Tuesday’s event. “That made an enormous difference.”
During his tenure, Schutzler guided WTIA in raising $50 million for computer science education in Washington and supported over 150 entrepreneurs who went on to establish companies.
The organization also initiated the nonprofit tech apprenticeship program Apprenti, which has expanded to operate in multiple U.S. states.
Schutzler expressed gratitude to the numerous volunteers and sponsors for their continued support, many of whom were in attendance on Tuesday.
“It’s been an amazing journey,” he reflected.
Kelly Fukai, the current COO of WTIA, is set to step into the CEO role.
Addressing the gathering, Fukai described technology as the “economic engine that fuels our state.” She emphasized closing the tech talent gap and ensuring the tech industry benefits communities throughout Washington.
“I’m thrilled to continue building on this great foundation laid by our team and everyone in this room, striving to achieve the highest level of competency — and enhance it dramatically,” Fukai stated.
Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell also addressed the event. He acknowledged that globally, his colleagues recognize Seattle as a hub of technology and innovation, attributing that identity partly to WTIA’s influence.
“There are many mayors who would love to have this kind of technological presence in their cities,” Harrell expressed.
Lazowska reiterated that WTIA’s significance extends beyond just tech companies and their employees.
“We recognize our responsibility to foster a region where everyone can not only survive but thrive,” he said. “It’s not just about us. That’s crucial. We focus on equity and promoting the well-being of the community where we live and work.”
