Meet
Alexis Wong

Why do you volunteer for PDXWIT? 

When I moved to Portland, I was introduced to PDXWIT by Madonnalisa Chan - who offered such a great gift. My work history didn't really include a direct route to a career in tech, so finding a community and meeting people who have had similar stories has been so reassuring. I admire how much PDXWIT really strives towards inclusivity - one of my favorite aspects of past events has been the activities for introverts. Those types of thoughtful touches made me feel very understood. Being able to give back brings me a sense of purpose, and copywriting has been such an educational contribution when getting to know another PDXWIT member more deeply or presenting pieces about women throughout tech history.

What is your day job or another passion of yours (besides PDXWIT)? 

Musical Theater! For over 15 years I've spent time on and off the boards; acting, singing, directing, producing and writing. I love the little details and how they all come together to create a huge show. Very odd, you may say, for an actor to also be an self-described introvert, but it's very true. Storytelling through song is a real catharsis. And learning how the body works with sound and air and emotion is very geeky fun.

What has been your favorite PDXWIT project, initiative or event you have participated in as a volunteer? Why?

The first event I ever took part in was the 2018 Summer Soiree - talk about being thrown into the PDXWIT deep end! Everyone was rushing around the gorgeous W+K space, placing tables and sound, but people like Megan and Mike L. still took the time to be warm, friendly and make others feel welcomed. I ended up passing out water to tons of attendees (crucial on a warm day with more than 500 people in attendance) - and I guess those bottle distribution skills must have impressed, because Megan and Andrea got in touch soon after to join the team!

What is something people may not know about you? 

I'm also a public speaking coach (maybe I shouldn't be identifying as an introvert?) and have taught workshops on vocal production and health. It's been a natural offshoot of studying voice for so long and understanding how to work through nerves via auditioning for shows. One of my favorite groups to have taught for is Women Talk Design - an online community dedicated to elevating more female and non-binary UX and UI designer speakers on stages around the world.