Mike Salsgiver is an experienced executive with more than four decades of leadership in government affairs, public policy, and economic development. Since 2008, he has served as Chief Executive Officer of the Associated General Contractors Oregon-Columbia Chapter, where he leads one of the region’s largest construction industry organizations, representing nearly 800 member firms across Oregon and southwest Washington State.
Mike’s career spans senior roles in the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. Prior to his current position, he served as Deputy Director and Acting Director of the Oregon Department of Economic and Community Development (now Business Oregon), where he played a key role in statewide economic strategy and business recruitment in the administration of Governor Ted Kulongoski. He also spent eight years at Intel Corporation during a period of significant growth and expansion of the company’s research and development capabilities, serving as Government and Public Affairs Manager and helping to navigate complex regulatory and community relations issues.
Earlier in his career, Mike worked in federal public service for over a decade, including roles as a field representative, legislative assistant, and assistant state director for U.S. Senator Mark Hatfield, focusing on public lands, energy, and other natural resources issues. Prior to his work with Senator Hatfield, Mike served as a field representative for U.S. Senator Bob Packwood, where he worked on economic development, labor, and port issues.
A veteran of the U.S. Air Force where he worked in signals intelligence, Mike earned his bachelor’s degree in political science, graduating with high honors from Portland State University. He also pursued graduate studies in law and public administration in Portland, Oregon.
In addition to his professional responsibilities, Mike has been actively engaged in civic and community leadership throughout his career. He has served on numerous business and community boards and was a member—and later chair—of the Centennial School District Board of Directors. He is an avid human spaceflight enthusiast, studies and acquires many of the latest technologies, and enjoys outdoor exploration by RV’ing, camping, and backpacking. Mike resides in the Portland metropolitan area.