The Washington Technology Industry Association has tapped Seattle entrepreneur and angel investor Michael Schutzler to serve as president and CEO. He takes over from venture capitalist Susan Sigl, who announced her plans to step down from the state’s tech trade association earlier this year.
Schutzler is well known in startup and tech circles in Seattle, having most recently served as CEO of online education learning company Livemocha. Before that, he worked in executive roles at Classmates.com; Monster Worldwide; FreeShop and RealNetworks. He currently serves on the boards of Flowplay, Relaborate and Acucela.
“I’m eager to help create the political and economic environment that makes the Pacific NW the best place to build and operate a tech company,” said Schutzler. “I’ve benefited enormously from this industry and am eager to help every member succeed.”
Schutzler said he planned to share more specifics about his approach after he gets settled into the job.
“…As an engineer, I know first hand that innovation and creativity require sponsorship,” he said. “I want to help build a community that delivers the financial and professional sponsorship necessary for the Pacific NW to lead in this global industry.”
The WTIA boasts more than 500 member companies.
