The challenge persists: We still have our work cut out for us in terms of educating about our mission, goals and milestones. But more importantly, there is still a significant population, which believes technology is only relevant to “geeks.” In the 21st century where globalization is an unavoidable imperative, this belief is deleterious to our regional and national competitiveness… particularly with places such as Korea where the ubiquitous integration of technology is aggressive, visionary, and linked to business as intuitive best practice. If we are to attract or retain knowledge-base jobs, there is little choice but to evangelize the benefits towards creation of an environment favorable to economic vitality.

Another aspect of this undertaking involves inspiring other visionaries who will create a legacy for current and future generations by building on our success, fostering renewed energy and synergizing accountability. Through strategic partnerships and initiatives, we have succeeded in developing pathways, which allow us to become and remain competitive. The Technology Alliance, Northwest Entrepreneur Network (NWEN), Microsoft, Culminis, Prosperity Partnership, MIT Enterprise Forum of the Northwest, University of Washington’s Shidler Center for Law, Commerce and Technology, Kitsap County, Sprint, Paladin Data Systems, BOXLIGHT, Olympic College, Kitsap Regional Library, Washington Technology Center (WTC), Netdesk, Kitsap Economic Development Council… these are but a sampling of the collaborative relationships we’ve clustered which can improve education, workforce development, and create family waged, community-based jobs.

Our efforts are progressive, inclusive and empowering.... and continually call upon WSTPA to be a source of inspiration and optimism. A brighter future awaits us through effective leadership and investment in today. Seize the opportunity to become a leader and dare to chance success.

WSTPA is a 501c3 organization with approximately 150 members in Kitsap, King, Pierce, Mason, Clallam, Jefferson, Grays Harbor, and Thurston counties. We meet monthly on the 3rd Thursday of the month from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at Poulsbo Regional Library’s Community Room. We sponsor an annual summit each October, host quarterly Business Breakfast Briefings, and offer Special Interest Group (SIG) gatherings for more hard-core tech topics. We participate in conferences and forums such as Seattle ITEC in June, Technology Alliance’s annual luncheon on May 15 (with Amazon.com’s Jeff Bezos as keynote), and WTC’s annual summit (held this past April 28 at Microsoft’s campus in Redmond).

Members work within IT firms, own their own business, operate in the IT department of non-IT entities, or are business professionals who wish to better understand and integrate technology towards more efficiency. Sectors include both public and private, such as government, education, business, and economic development. Membership is nominal at $50 per year for individuals or $25 for active students. Information regarding business or sponsorship levels providing increased exposure can be found at www.wstpa.org, as well as benefits, upcoming events and resources.

Where does that leave us? With our tremendous efforts to increase exposure to members and supporters in the West Sound region, a small cadre of volunteer board members does their best to keep the association on the forward path. However, we clearly cannot do it alone and can never have too much support from you… the community. As many of us become increasingly busy, the risk of complacency is high. I ask each of you to help us navigate the waters of technological innovation and advancement.

How?

• Create a climate of trust and teamwork, inspiring a sense of responsibility and autonomous contribution
• Use effective communications to build positive working relationships, and share resources towards common purpose and powerhouse potential
• Embrace the phenomenon of change as thrilling — with courage, conviction and a willingness to take risks
• Provide quality leadership with a passion for ideas

Set aside time on behalf of the association. We each have the ability to change the world through our vision to shape the future. Serve on our board, join WSTPA, or volunteer a hand where you can. Do it today.