The annual GeekWire Gala, a vibrant celebration of Seattle’s tech community, transformed the Showbox SoDo into a candy-themed wonderland, drawing over 700 attendees for a night of festive networking and revelry. The event, presented by First Tech Federal Credit Union, pulsed with energy, showcasing the dynamic spirit of the region’s tech scene. Guests indulged in a delectable array of treats, from signature cocktails and a mashed potato bar to sliders, cupcakes, and an abundance of candy. Personalized macarons, courtesy of Macadons, featuring images of attendees, pets, and other creative designs, were a popular attraction throughout the evening. The lively atmosphere was further enhanced by a caricature artist, a spirited festive fashion contest, interactive LED games, and a constantly rotating 360-degree photo booth, capturing the joyous moments of the night.
Beyond the celebratory ambiance, the GeekWire Gala served as a platform to recognize and honor the region’s “Uncommon Thinkers” – individuals whose innovative contributions are transforming industries and driving positive change. These exceptional individuals included protein design researcher Ingrid Swanson Pultz, fusion energy expert Uri Shumlak, Stoke Space CEO Andy Lapsa, TerraPower Isotopes’ Chris Dunckley, and AI researcher Hannaneh Hajishirzi. This awards program, now in its second year and supported by Greater Seattle Partners, highlighted the significant impact of these innovators on the local and global landscape. Their achievements stood as a testament to the ingenuity and forward-thinking nature of the Seattle tech community.
The musical entertainment at the Gala catered to diverse tastes, featuring performances by the University of Washington’s Furmata A Cappella group, the rhythmic mixes of DJ Mixtress, and the ever-popular Geekaroke karaoke sessions in the dedicated Lollipop Lounge. The combination of live music, DJ sets, and interactive karaoke provided a dynamic soundtrack to the evening’s festivities, encouraging guests to mingle, connect, and celebrate the collective spirit of the tech community. The varied entertainment options ensured a vibrant and engaging atmosphere throughout the night, reflecting the diversity and dynamism of the Seattle tech scene.
The success of the GeekWire Gala was a collaborative effort, with significant contributions from various sponsors. First Tech Federal Credit Union, the presenting sponsor, played a crucial role in bringing the event to life. Additional support came from gold sponsors Greater Seattle Partners and Network of Giving, silver sponsor Delta Air Lines, and supporting sponsors Showbox Presents, Washington State Department of Commerce, and ALLtech. Their collective support underscored the importance of community engagement and the shared commitment to fostering innovation and growth within the tech sector.
The visual narrative of the evening was captured through a series of photographs, showcasing the energy and excitement of the Gala. Images of guests enjoying the candy bar, the captivating performance by the University of Washington’s Furmata A Cappella, GeekWire co-founders John Cook and Todd Bishop with First Tech representative Keion Mauldin, the festive fashion contest hosted by Lisa Weeks and Jonathan Sposato, and the “Uncommon Thinkers” honorees receiving recognition, all contributed to a comprehensive visual record of the event. These images, along with photos of guests spinning in the 360-degree photo booth, caricature artist Lou Medina at work, attendees enjoying the Geekaroke lounge, and the Macadons macaron printing station in action, collectively painted a vivid picture of the Gala’s vibrant atmosphere and celebratory spirit.
The GeekWire Gala served as a powerful testament to the vitality and collaborative spirit of the Seattle tech community. It provided a platform to celebrate innovation, recognize outstanding achievements, and foster connections among individuals shaping the future of technology. The event’s success was a testament to the collective effort of organizers, sponsors, and attendees, all contributing to a memorable night of networking, entertainment, and shared celebration. The candy-themed backdrop, the diverse entertainment offerings, and the recognition of “Uncommon Thinkers” underscored the event’s unique blend of festivity and substance, making the 2024 GeekWire Gala a resounding success.
