AI, tech talent, and regional innovation, with retiring WTIA CEO Michael Schutzler

Michael Schutzler, the exit interview: The retiring CEO of the Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA) joins us on this episode of the GeekWire Podcast to reflect on his 11 years running the not-for-profit trade association, assess the state of the tech industry in Seattle and Washington state, and discuss what's next for him — including music and AI.

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Nick Hanauer was a big supporter of Washington state’s capital gains tax. But the Seattle venture capitalist said a new wealth tax proposal from Gov. Jay Inslee is “impractical” and “boneheaded.” Read more.

• Related: Wealth tax proposal in Washington state reignites debate over taxes and tech talent migration

Tribute shutting down: The Seattle startup began as a mentor-matching app and evolved into an online tool for strengthening workplace relationships and knowledge sharing. We spoke with founder Sarah Haggard about the closure and her entrepreneurial journey. Read more.

Hot Links:

• Seattle-based venture firm Madrona opened a larger office in Silicon Valley. (LinkedIn)

• Amazon has proved it can deliver via drones — but are customers ready? (New York Times)

• A profile of Amazon Web Services CEO Matt Garman, a few months into his new gig leading the cloud juggernaut. (Fortune)