Mass. Technology Collaborative seeks to diversify state's talent pool

The MIT Media Lab, in Cambridge, Mass., houses researchers develops novel uses of computer technology.

From The New England Council (newenglandcouncil.com)

The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MassTech) has announced that it is developing programs to diversify the industry talent pool in state civic groups, businesses, and nonprofits. MassTech’s “Tech Talent Diversity Initiative” will aim is to diversify the pool of candidates hired for internships, apprenticeships, and entry-level positions.

Organizations that increase the proportion of workers hired from underrepresented populations will be eligible for grants. The Tech Talent Diversity Initiative intends to streamline identification and recruitment for diverse candidates, support candidates’ successful work experience, and improve workplace practices in raising diverse participation and retention rates.

Damon Cox, Assistant Secretary of Technology, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship for Massachusetts, said, “We have a very real need for tech workers in this state, including over 9,000 job openings in the cybersecurity sector alone. . . In 2017, women held 49% of the total jobs in Massachusetts, but only 28% of computer, engineering and science jobs. When we look across gender and race stats, we see great opportunity to improve.”

The Council applauds Massachusetts Technology Collaborative’s efforts to increase diversity the tech industry, and create a workforce that is more representative of the Commonwealth’s residents