High Tech
The Portland region’s high tech industry continues to grow. Moreover, high tech employee hiring reached a 12-year high. The software side of tech has grown almost 50 percent in just the past 10 years with companies like Elemental Puppet and Jama Software. As a result, the industry employed Oregonians directly across 1700 businesses in the metro area. The state’s total industry output was an impressive $25.4 billion.
Athletic and Outdoor Apparel
Portland is home to the highest number of athletic apparel and outdoor recreation companies in the United States. Locally headquartered firms include Nike and Columbia Sportswear. In addition, the North American headquarters of Adidas ,Keen, Danner Boots, SnowPeak, Poler Outdoor Stuff, Wildfang and Leatherman. Internationally known brands such as Nau, Lucy, Dakine and Under Armour also have a large presence in Greater Portland.
Manufacturing
Portland is a national leader in specialized areas of manufacturing. Products include high tech electronics and specialty metal fabrication. Notably, Boeing has it largest machining shop within the entire company located in Gresham. Also, Precision Castparts Corp. in Milwaukie OR is a worldwide diversified manufacturer of complex metal components and products.
Healthcare
Portland’s healthcare industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the economy. In fact, three of the top ten employers in the region are healthcare providers. These employers are, Providence Health and Services, Oregon Health and Sciences University and Legacy Health. As of 2017 Greater Portland had over 54000 healthcare jobs in the metro area.