Island GreenTech was born from an unexpected mix of llama love, orca rescue, and a friendship between two men who shared a passion for helping others realize their dreams.

IN MEMORY

Our founders

Rex Stratton

Rex Stratton, was an intellectual property lawyer with a deep background in business law, corporate finance, and litigation, moved to the Pacific Northwest with his wife, Barbara, after leaving Montana. Their journey eventually led them to Vashon, inspired by Barbara’s dream of raising llamas in their backyard.

Our founders

Tag Gornall

Tag Gornall, is retired marine mammal veterinarian with a remarkable global career, had first crossed paths with Rex years earlier—during a dramatic orca rescue near an inn where the Strattons were vacationing. Over time, both men found their way to Vashon, where their friendship grew. Recognizing a shared desire to give back to the community, they combined their expertise in business and law to make a difference.

Learn more about Tag

Early days

Rex and Tag found themselves brainstorming with Bob Powell, a local entrepreneur, engineer, and one of Microsoft’s early interns. They envisioned a “business roundtable” at Minglement, where Vashon residents with big ideas could gather every Wednesday to receive advice and mentorship. Their mission was to “incubate green technology on Vashon/Maury Island.” Initially, they named their effort ManTech—short for Manufacturing Technology—but quickly realized the name was outdated. And so, Island GreenTech was born. Fueled by their energy and vision, the initiative took root, growing into a driving force for innovation and sustainability on Vashon.

Early projects

As president of the Rotary Club, Rex played a key role in securing the donation of the Sheffield Building for community use. When Vashon Fire Service faced a $250,000 funding gap, he rallied donors and successfully raised the necessary funds.

Tag, always brimming with energy and humor, brought his own creative flair to community initiatives. When the Vashon Food Bank needed support, he joined islander Bernie O’Malley and others in launching a holiday fundraiser. Dressed as an elf, Tag took to the streets, stopping traffic and collecting spare change—ultimately raising an impressive $80,000.

Island GreenTech

Our Projects

Vashon Electric Vehicle Association (VEVA)

GreenTech brainstormed the development of the Vashon Electric Vehicle Association (VEVA), in order to assist islanders in converting their gasoline vehicles to electric. A space in the Sheffield Building was used for the conversion operation.

Vashon Theatre Goes Digital

Any Vashon organization can apply to present an educational film and offer a discussion on subjects like the environment, social justice, and other inspiring topics.

Apply

Vashon Gets a Credit Union (PSCCU)

In that first year, GreenTech raised an extraordinary 22 million in deposits—which astonished the credit union. Today, PSCCU is a very active financial institution that continues to serve the community well.

ZeroWaste Vashon

ZeroWaste has grown in scope and influence as an organization in its own right, helping to develop a green waste disposal at the transfer station, as well as a very popular monthly styrofoam and plastics recycling concern. There are constant plans to improve its impact on the community.