December 2025 Update
As I reflect on 2025, I feel deep gratitude for our SIM Portland Chapter community. This year was about people showing up, sharing honestly, and supporting one another as leaders navigating constant change.
Throughout the year, SIM Portland remained committed to creating meaningful experiences for technology leaders across our region.
Our monthly chapter meetings brought IT leaders together for thoughtful conversations on leadership, trust, cybersecurity, and guiding teams through uncertainty. These sessions went beyond theory as members shared real stories, lessons learned, and practical insights they could apply immediately.
One of the highlights of the year was our SIM Portland Golf Tournament, which once again combined community, fun, and purpose. Beyond the friendly competition, the event supported our student scholarship programs, reinforcing our commitment to developing future technology leaders.
Our Annual Portland SIMPosium sold out and offered a broader perspective on leadership trends, executive challenges, and the evolving role of technology leaders in a rapidly changing world.
Our peer networking forums—including SIM Women Portland, SmartOPS, the Cybersecurity Leadership Forum, the SIM Leadership Book Club, and SIM Leadership Roundtables (CIO Enclave)—continued to provide trusted spaces for open dialogue. These communities allowed leaders to ask hard questions, learn from one another, and be reminded they are not alone in the challenges they face.
We also strengthened our student and academic partnerships through scholarships, volunteer opportunities, and mentorship. Seeing senior leaders invest their time and energy in students and early-career professionals remains one of the most meaningful outcomes of our work.
None of this would have been possible without our volunteer leaders, board members, sponsors, and engaged members. SIM Portland thrives because of people who care deeply about community and service.
Looking Ahead to 2026: Purpose, People, and Progress
As we move into 2026, our focus remains clear.
We will continue to:
Create spaces for honest leadership conversations
Support technology leaders at every stage of their journey
Strengthen industry and academic partnerships
Grow our chapter with intention and inclusion
Keep leadership human-centered on trust, calm decision-making, and shared responsibility
The year ahead will bring new challenges, along with fresh opportunities to learn, serve, and grow together. SIM Portland will remain a place where leaders don’t have to navigate complexity alone.
Thank you.
Thank you to every member who attended an event, sponsored a program, mentored a student, or contributed their time and voice to the community. Your involvement is what makes SIM Portland special.
I look forward to continuing this journey with you in 2026.
August 2024 Update
Greetings, SIM Portland members!
We have been busy during the last month getting sponsors lined up for our Annual Golf tournament. I am excited to share that we are SOLD OUT! This has only been possible with the tiring efforts of our golf committee. Please remember that these are all volunteers who took time out of their busy schedules to make this happen.
We are also planning to meet in mid-August for our strategic board meeting. We will work together to set goals for the next couple of years. If you have an idea or suggestion, please share it with me.
I am also excited to share the vibrant events we have lined up for the month. These gatherings are not just opportunities for professional growth but also for building stronger connections within our community. Here’s what’s coming up:
SIM PDX Leadership Book Club - August 12, 2024
We kick off this month with our Leadership Book Club meeting. We’ll be diving into Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater by Adam Grant. This session will explore how we can elevate ourselves and those around us, breaking free from the limitations often imposed by societal expectations. Join us at Brix Tualatin for an enriching discussion from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
SIM PDX Annual Summer Social 2024 - August 14, 2024
What better way to enjoy summer than with our Annual Summer Social? This year, we’re gathering at 10 Barrel Brewing in Portland. From 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM, members and their approved guests can enjoy an evening of networking over beer, wine, and barbecue. This relaxed setting is the perfect chance to reconnect with colleagues and friends within the SIM community.
SIM Portland Cybersecurity Leaders Forum - August 28, 2024
Cybersecurity remains a critical concern in today’s digital landscape. The SIM Portland Cybersecurity Leaders Forum is an event you won’t want to miss. This forum will take place at The Standard in downtown Portland, offering a unique opportunity to engage with top CISOs and cybersecurity experts. From 5:30 PM to 7:15 PM, expect inspiring keynotes and invaluable networking opportunities, all designed to help elevate your cybersecurity leadership.
24th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament - September 5, 2024
Looking ahead, our 24th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament is set for September 5 at the Stone Creek Golf Club. This event is a cornerstone of our community efforts, supporting scholarships for students pursuing degrees in MIS/BIS and related fields. It’s also a fantastic way to network with IT leaders while enjoying a day on the green.
These events underscore our chapter’s commitment to fostering leadership, professional growth, and community support. I encourage all members to participate and make the most of these opportunities. Your engagement helps us build a stronger, more connected community.
Thank you for your continued support. I look forward to seeing you at these events!
You can always reach me through email: SABY@SIMPDX.org or connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/waraich/