Silicon Shire, a consortium of over 150 technology companies in the Eugene-Springfield area, hosted a business mixer earlier this year at the University of Oregon's Ford Alumni Center.

The well-attended event gave UO students and faculty a chance to mingle with representatives from local tech firms specializing in computer gaming, biotech, web and media, mobile and embedded applications, networking and security, business and educational software, and industrial optimization – all located in the university's backyard.

Concentric Sky, a local web and mobile app developer that has become internationally known, served as the event's major sponsor but was joined by several other local firms.

Welcoming remarks were offered by Cale and Lisa Bruckner of Concentric Sky, Kiki Prottsman from the UO's Computer and Information Science Department and Colleen Lewis from the UO Career Center. The South Eugene Robotics Team then showcased its remotely-controlled, wheeled vehicle.

According to the Silicon Shire website, the consortium serves the Eugene-Springfield area's growing technology community.

"With a 'university town feel,' outdoor-oriented community and a rich talent pool fed by two universities, the Silicon Shire is a great place to live, work and play," the website says. "The Silicon Shire offers technology businesses of all kinds, the supportive infrastructure to build and grow their business, along with the desirable quality of life to attract and retain great talent."

- from UO Computer and Information Science