Spokanite Kelly Fukai joined the Washington Technology Industry Association in September 2022, was appointed chief operating officer in April 2024, and recently took the helm as chief executive on Jan. 1. The nonprofit business organization is made up of 1,000 technology companies statewide.  

Fukai is a self-described serial board member. She’s served the Girl Scouts of Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho, College Success Foundation, Washington State University Spokane Advisory, MultiCare Inland Northwest Foundation, Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce, and others. 

Education: Associate of arts degree, Spokane Falls Community College; bachelor’s degree in accounting, Gonzaga University.

Why did you choose to do what you do? I discovered early in my career that I loved connecting with people to create impact. I would have never thought that my career path would have taken all the turns that it did and sometimes I am surprised that I am doing what I am doing. It doesn't seem logical to go from a CPA to a lobbyist to a CEO. What binds all the roles together is connecting people and outcomes.  

What's the best piece of advice you've received?  Not sure I can say it, but it truly is one of the best pieces of advice: Don't believe your own BS.  It is important to be confident. Yet, it is equally important to stay humble.   

What advice would you have for others looking to follow a career path similar to yours?  My advice would be don't follow anyone's path. You should forge your own by learning from the paths of others and leaning into your unique skills and what drives you as an individual.  

Do you have a favorite quote/motto? I have many favorites but the two I most often tell my kids are, "To be interesting, be interested." And more recently, thanks to Ted Lasso, "Be curious, not judgmental." 

If you had to choose an alternative career path and money wasn't relevant, what would you do? I would be an MLB umpire. I love the game of baseball, and I can imagine no higher calling than to be an arbiter of its rules.