Oregon's Tech Sector Powers State Growth

High Tech in Oregon today employs nearly 90,000 people.  The Oregon employment department says the industry has an $8.4 billion in payroll. The number of those employed has nearly climbed back up to the 93,000 High Tech workers employed in July 2008 before the recession hit. 

High Tech wages are more than double the state average at $94,000 vs. $44,300.  Back in the 1970's Tech jobs paid about 10 percent more than the state average wage.  Since then, while wages in other industries have stalled, High Tech paychecks have continued to increase.

Back in the 1970's, the heydays of the wood products industry, it was wood products that paid out 12 percent of all Oregon wages. Today that distinction goes to High Tech.

Geek out on all the details! Click here to read more of the State of Oregon Employment Department's special report.