Across the public and private sectors, new approaches are being implemented to diversify the IT workforce, often starting with efforts to build a more inclusive tech talent pipeline. In fact, some states have implemented programs specifically designed to recruit non-traditional talent into tech.
For TAG, a newly announced partnership with SkillStorm will help to widen the talent pool using a tech training platform that will help people gain technology certifications in AWS, Salesforce, CompTIA, Appian and Pega.
The announcement cites research that Georgia’s technology sector is growing and although Black workers represent nearly one-third of the state’s population, they represent only 23 percent of the tech workforce in the state. As such, this initiative will include a targeted scholarship program to offer support for Black Georgians and to bridge career opportunity gaps in tech.
The goal is not only to bring new talent into the space, but also to bring more Black workers into mid- and senior-level roles. The announcement notes that Black IT business ownership is also representative of this gap.
The association’s Bridge Builders program will be funding scholarships through SkillStorm’s Upskill Together program, selecting recipients with the ultimate goal being to advance 1,000 Black workers in tech careers over the next five years.
“Closing the opportunity gap in Georgia’s tech industry requires intentional action and collaboration,” said Dr. Loretta Daniels, director of TAG’s Bridge Builders program, in the announcement. “By leveraging SkillStorm’s innovative training platform and scholarship program, we can create a broader pool of workers with the skills that are in high demand in the state’s tech job market and pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive tech economy.”
