Washington's tech sector has transformed the state's economy since the mid-20th century. From early computer companies to tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon, the industry has shaped the region's landscape and job market.
The state now boasts several tech hubs, each with unique strengths. Seattle focuses on e-commerce and cloud computing, while the Eastside emphasizes enterprise software and gaming. Tacoma and Spokane are emerging as new centers for innovation.
Origins of tech industry
Washington State's tech industry roots trace back to the mid-20th century, shaping the state's economic landscape
The region's natural resources and engineering expertise from aerospace industries provided a foundation for tech growth
Seattle emerged as a major tech hub, attracting talent and fostering innovation across the state
Early computer companies
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Eniac | Now that's a computer! | John Morton | Flickr View original
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Tektronix graphic terminal (1972) | You use a terminal to 't… | Flickr View original
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Tektronix graphic terminal (1972) | You use a terminal to 't… | Flickr View original
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Eniac | Now that's a computer! | John Morton | Flickr View original
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Tektronix graphic terminal (1972) | You use a terminal to 't… | Flickr View original
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Top images from around the web for Early computer companies
Eniac | Now that's a computer! | John Morton | Flickr View original
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Tektronix graphic terminal (1972) | You use a terminal to 't… | Flickr View original
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Tektronix graphic terminal (1972) | You use a terminal to 't… | Flickr View original
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Eniac | Now that's a computer! | John Morton | Flickr View original
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Tektronix graphic terminal (1972) | You use a terminal to 't… | Flickr View original
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Tektronix, founded in 1946, pioneered oscilloscopes and test equipment manufacturing in Portland, influencing Washington's tech scene
Data I/O Corporation, established in 1972 in Redmond, specialized in programming devices for electronic circuits
Computer Center Corporation, founded in 1968, provided computer time-sharing services to local businesses and schools
These early companies laid the groundwork for Washington's future as a tech powerhouse
Microsoft's founding
Bill Gates and Paul Allen founded Microsoft in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1975
Relocated to Bellevue, Washington, in 1979, capitalizing on the region's growing tech ecosystem
Developed MS-DOS operating system for IBM in 1981, propelling the company to industry leadership
Went public in 1986, fueling rapid expansion and establishing Washington as a global tech center
Amazon's Seattle roots
Jeff Bezos founded Amazon in Bellevue, Washington, in 1994 as an online bookstore
Moved to Seattle's Beacon Hill neighborhood in 1995, taking advantage of the city's tech-friendly environment
Expanded rapidly, diversifying into various product categories and cloud computing services
Transformed Seattle's South Lake Union area into a thriving tech district, attracting other companies and talent
Major tech hubs
Washington State hosts several significant tech hubs, each with unique characteristics and strengths
These hubs contribute to the state's reputation as a leading center for technology and innovation
The distribution of tech centers across the state has led to economic growth and diversification in multiple regions
Seattle vs Eastside
Seattle focuses on e-commerce, cloud computing, and consumer technology (Amazon, Zillow, Redfin)