In Utah and across the country, our economy is dependent on the technology industry to create jobs and expand economic growth.
Utah is one of the fastest-growing states for tech jobs, and is referred to as the next “Silicon Valley”. Nationally in 2016 alone, the technology sector contributed more than $1 trillion to the U.S. economy, employed more than 7 million workers and added more than 100,000 new jobs.
That is why Rep. Love is proudly cosponsoring theChampioning Apprenticeships for New Careers and Employees in Technology (CHANCE in Tech) Act, (H.R. 3174). This legislation would create opportunities for students seeking a career in high tech, and align workforce training with local and regional demands.
“I see so many opportunities at Tech companies in Utah, and I want young people to get the skills they need to get a good paying job,” Rep. Love said. “This is simply preparing our workers for the 21st Century economy.”
Utah Tech companies applaud the legislation.
“We praise and support the CHANCE in TECH Act to expand the talent pipeline for highly skilled positions,” said Richard R. Nelson, President and CEO of the Utah Technology Council and former Chairman of TECNA. “This is a terrific role for the federal government to be a catalyst in accelerating the growth of high paying jobs. Everyone wins!”
Here’s what the bill would do:
- Create public-private partnerships for apprenticeship programs, industry and training partners and government entities.
- Each intermediary would assess and train potential apprentices, lessening the regulator burden on participating employers by tracking success indicators and managing other reporting requirements.
- Establish a program to recognize high schools and community colleges providing exemplary IT training and counseling
- Better align workforce training with local and regional demands.
