Author: Jessica Metta

Tech Talent Link specializes in connecting top tech talent with remarkable organizations. We were founded in 2013 with the purpose of giving both our clients and candidates the best talent acquisition process experience. Our services are for the job seeker as well as employers. Because we take the time to understand your needs, over 85% of our candidates are interviewed with one of our established clients. Learn more.

In celebration of the Gorge Tech Alliance’s 15th anniversary in 2020, we are pleased to unveil a new look for the organization with a new logo and more cohesive brand identity. Let us know what you think, and there will be more to come as the year continues!

We have more big news:  Jessica Metta will be transitioning to a new role. The GTA and Mid-Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD) have had a close relationship since the creation of the GTA. MCEDD staff have served as the GTA staff these 15 years. As Jessica was recently promoted to MCEDD’s Executive Director (press release), the lead staff person for the GTA will be changing. We are excited for the new ideas and new energy this will bring to our work to support, connect and develop the tech community of the Gorge! Jessica will continue to offer support through the transition and will continue to be engaged to ensure the ongoing success of the GTA. The GTA has grown significantly over her leadership through the last 11 years, and we are excited for her new opportunities as well as the future of the GTA.  

In what should have been its seventh year, the Gorge Technology Alliance (GTA) announced today that the 2020 Wind Challenge has been canceled in relation to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. The event brings over 200 middle- and high-school students and dozens of volunteers from across six counties together for a one-day competition to build the best wind turbine. This event had been planned for March 14, 2020 at Fort Dalles Readiness Center.

“We did not take cancellation of this event lightly,” said GTA Executive Director Jessica Metta. “While Wind Challenge has been a beloved staple for STEM education in the Gorge for many years, the safety of the students and volunteers is our top priority. We have been monitoring the COVID-19 concerns very carefully and felt it was best to cancel this year’s event based on our most up-to-date assessment and in consideration of general public health and safety.”

The planning team behind Wind Challenge will reconvene in a few months to consider rescheduling the event for Fall 2020. All previously registered student teams, volunteers, and the community will be informed if the event is rescheduled.

For more information about Wind Challenge, visit windchallenge.org or contact Jessica Metta at 541-296-2266, jessica@crgta.org.

This April will be the 50th anniversary of Earth Day and the GTA is joining the celebration. Our April Geek Lunch will focus on Technology Disruptions in Clean Energy with Eric Stid, but there are others looking for your ideas, feedback, and support to extend the celebration all month throughout the Gorge. Submit ideas and podcasts on the Idea/Podcast Form and / or sign up to host a Gorge Earth Month activity on this Event Form.

Businesses in on the Oregon-side of the Gorge in need of funds to support trainings for current employees are invited to submit proposals to EC Works by March 16 for the next round of consideration. EC Works will fund proposals that present an opportunity for employers to build and maintain a quality workforce and increase the competitiveness of both employees and their business(es), while creating new employment opportunities. 

EC Works pays particular attention to training that provides current employees an opportunity for advancement and wage gains within their company, as well as those that create opportunities to backfill positions with new employees. Employers are encouraged to partner with their local WorkSource center in identifying potential candidates for backfill opportunities. 

EC Works will consider proposals that include a request of a minimum of $5,000 and a maximum of $25,000. The total amount available is $75,000. Learn more.

The GTA is celebrating 15 years in 2020 and what better way to do it than with a whole new look! We are excited to share our new logo….VERY SOON! Stay right there on the edge of your seats…

The Gorge Tech Alliance is now accepting applications for our 2020 scholarship. Applications must be received by the GTA by Wednesday, February 26, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. In 2015, the GTA proudly launched the Corwin Hardham Memorial Scholarship fund with the first award given in 2016. This scholarship is awarded annually to Gorge high school seniors pursuing post-secondary degrees in the fields of science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM). Eligible students are those from Hood River, Wasco, Sherman, Skamania and Klickitat Counties who are graduating from high school, home school or receiving a GED in the spring/ summer.

Read more about Corwin Hardham or how to donate to this fund here, or download the application here.

“Thrive!” program offers expertise to help high growth businesses with up to $25 million in annual revenues expand. The Washington Department of Commerce has developed Thrive!, a new program to help second-stage companies increase revenues and position for growth. Based on the Edward Lowe Foundation’s System for Integrated Growth (SiG) framework, Thrive! connects chief executive officers to subject matter experts who provide them with data, analytics, best practices and strategies that are typically only available to larger corporations. This actionable information can be used to overcome roadblocks related to human resources, finances, operations, marketing, sales, international trade and other business issues. Read more.

The Joint Center for Aerospace Technology Innovation (JCATI) is seeking proposals from companies that would benefit from academic collaboration to solve a technology roadblock. While the focus is on aerospace companies in Washington, collaborations with Oregon and Washington companies could be considered. Past examples include software and other analytics, materials testing and development, manufacturing methods, computer simulations, electronics modules, propulsion systems and prototype testing. Read more about this program here.