TechStart Education Foundation

TechStart Education Foundation, previously the Software Association of Oregon Foundation (SAO Foundation), is a 501(c)3 non-profit with a mission to use technology education to strengthen the teamwork, critical thinking, creativity, and problem solving skills of K-12 students. The goals of TechStart are to provide professional development and support to Oregon technology educators and to awaken an interest in technology among Oregon students.

TechStart brings industry and education together in a partnership that builds the “foundation” for tomorrow’s workforce. 

Click HERE to learn how you can support TechStart

Our Programs

SuperQuest:  A two-week professional development summer institute that provides a forum for teachers to learn new technologies, interface with industry, sharpen their pedagogy, and learn from peers. 

Technology Educator of the Year Award:  The SAO Foundation honors an outstanding technology teacher annually with the Oregon IT Educator of the Year Award at our annual Fundraiser and Wine Tasting.

Willamette-SAO Foundation Programming Contest:  A statewide competition in computer programming, co-presented by SAOF and hosted by Willamette University.  The competition requires student teams to solve challenging programming problems in a limited time.  The program encourages teamwork and programming achievement at diverse skill levels, simulating a real world work experience.

TechStart Education Foundation - Oregon Computer Science Teachers Association Spring Conference: Held in conjunction with the Programming Contest, the Spring Conference brings K-12 technology teachers (and those who wish to teach technology) together for focused discussions on topics like technology curriculum and preparing students for college level technology classes.

TechStart along with the Engineering & Technology Council, Tufts University Center for Engineering Outreach, and the LEGO Group held the First Annual Northwest Region Lego's in Education and ROBOLAB Conference in June 2006.

For more information about TechStart, please contact John Ossowski at (503) 802-5211 or by e-mail.