Experiencing Tech in Portland, Oregon: A Personal Depiction

Portland, Oregon is often associated with a thriving tech industry, much akin to the well-known Silicon Valley, but with its own unique charm and community. As a seasoned tech professional who gained hands-on experience with companies like Tektronix and Intel in the area, I offer an insider's perspective.

Working at Tektronix in the 90s

Tektronix, a pioneer in the tech industry, has its roots in the late 1950s with the original tech companies being Tektronix and Electro Scientific Industries (ESI). I spent 10 years working at Tektronix during the 90s, starting off as an electronics technician. This period was both challenging and rewarding, marking moments of hard work amid supportive environments.

A Mix of Frustration and Bliss

Working at Tek was a blend of frustration and pure enjoyment. On one hand, I encountered pervasive bad management that could make the workday a real struggle. However, on the other hand, I had the privilege of being around incredibly supportive coworkers and managers who allowed me the freedom to explore and innovate.

Career Progression

I progressed through various roles at Tek, starting with manufacturing test and repair, then moving on to become a schematic symbols librarian and schematic capture specialist, and finally a RD lab support technician. Each of these roles allowed me to deepen my understanding of the tech industry and contribute in meaningful ways.

One of the highlights of working at Tek was interacting with the engineering staff. I was fortunate enough to learn extensive knowledge about microwave electronics and human factors testing. These experiences were both intellectually challenging and personally enriching.

Temporary Roles with Intel

While my tenure at Tek was formative, I also had the opportunity to work at Intel in temporary capacities. These roles were largely routine, focused on validation work. However, I also had the opportunity to engage in raw wafer probing, a highly detailed and exacting process that demanded meticulous attention to detail.

Lessons from Unique Experiences

I learned a lot from my experiences at both Tektronix and Intel. The tech jobs in Portland, especially in the Silicon Forest, offer a unique blend of intellectual challenges and genuine camaraderie within a supportive community. Whether it's the pioneering legacy of Tektronix or the relentless dedication at Intel, the tech landscape in Portland, Oregon is a mosaic of opportunities and experiences.

The Silicon Forest

The term "Silicon Forest" is a reflection of the tech ecosystem that has grown around Tektronix and other pioneering companies. It encapsulates the spirit of innovation and the supportive tech community that thrives in this region. The opportunities in Portland for tech professionals are vast, and the community is tight-knit and welcoming.

Keywords and Tech Job Opportunities

For those interested in tech job opportunities in Portland, including positions like electronics technician, schematic librarian, lab support technician, and validation engineer, the region offers a rich tapestry of careers. The community is known for fostering innovation and supporting individuals in their tech journeys. Whether you aim to work at a company like Tektronix or another tech firm, Portland's tech industry is ripe with opportunities for growth and learning.