About Fidgetech

Fidgetech provides live online training in coding, design, and AI. Founded in 2016 in Sherwood, Oregon, we serve students across the United States. Fidgetech is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, EIN 81-3445882.

Our Story

Fidgetech began in Portland with a small group of people who wanted better career outcomes for young adults leaving high school. Dr. Justine Wright, Fidgetech's director, is the mother of Dan, who was diagnosed with autism at an early age. Dan was drawn to technology from the time he was young, and Justine saw the same in other young adults she met. The programs available had been built for a different learner. So Justine teamed up with David Karstens, Jeanna Johnson, and a group of volunteers to run a two-night-a-week program of computer-based activities.

While the program was still being designed, two of the students were accepted into internships at Portland businesses. Both placements came from employers and advocates working together. That result shaped the founders' plan, and Fidgetech's core programs launched from there.

Our Mission

To inspire hope and provide dignity for adults experiencing autism and the neurodivergent community, to lead more meaningful and productive lives.

Our Vision

To empower organizations to embrace neurodivergent workers, paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.

Our Leadership

Justine Wright, PhD

President / Executive Director & Co-Founder

Justine leads day-to-day operations, fundraising, and partnership development at Fidgetech. She was most recently the Director of the Doctor of Business Administration Program at George Fox University. Her professional experience includes technical staffing and recruiting, team leadership, and sales management.

Annette Vargason, DBA

Director of Development & Operations

Annette is responsible for program development, compliance, team leadership, fundraising strategy, event production, and human resources. She brings over two decades of experience in technology and business leadership, having built and managed high-performing technical and cross-functional teams.