We have one of the strongest technology communities in the country, well-balanced among large enterprise, SMB, startups, and incubators. Our impact on the region is substantial in job creation, value creation, and state revenues. The WTIA serves as a platform for industry, government, and education to collaborate effectively and improve the quality of life for all who live in our state.
WTIA has been an important independent voice of the tech industry for Washington. It is a critical partner in helping address the challenges in continuing our industry’s amazing growth in our state. In my first year as ICT Sector leader for Washington state, I have witnessed WTIA testify proactively on a wide range of policies that impact the tech sector, including gender equity in pay, telecommunications regulations, biometrics, non-competes, and funding education.
It has been a privilege to be part of Seattle’s rapidly accelerating tech ecosystem over the last several years and to help the WTIA focus intensely on the needs of the industry. What all tech companies need, whether big or small, is state of the art talent. The WTIA programs, particularly Apprenti and the WTIA HR benefits, are leading the country in helping tech companies recruit, retain, and develop talent today and as our region evolves.
WTIA is a leader in supporting computing education at all levels. Their efforts include advocating for funding for K-12 teacher preparation in computer science, creating proactive workshops on growing and recruiting tech talent, helping the University of Washington raise public and private funds to expand CS enrollment, and creating a national tech apprenticeship program to recruit and train women, minorities, and veterans for jobs in the tech industry.