WASHINGTON – A group of the nation’s leading technology associations are urging the passage of the Championing Apprenticeships for New Careers and Employees in Technology Act (CHANCE in Tech), in a letter sent to Congressional leadership today. As part of National Apprenticeship Week, 10 of the foremost technology associations are raising awareness on this important legislation that will encourage job creation, spur economic growth and ensure the United States remains the most competitive economy in the world.
As the letter notes, today’s economy is increasingly dependent on the technology industry to create jobs, and the skills gap is slowing further growth. In 2016, the industry contributed more than $1 trillion to the U.S. economy, employed more 7 million workers, and added more than 100,000 new jobs. However, more than 600,000 technology jobs went unfilled in the fourth quarter of 2016, in large part due to the skills gap. Additionally, it is estimated that nearly 800,000 IT workers will retire between now and 2024.
The CHANCE in Tech Act would help shrink the skills gap by revitalizing the registered apprenticeship program and providing students and workers with the hands-on, experiential learning needed to compete in today’s economy. It is for these reasons that we support H.R. 3174/S. 1518, and urge the House of Representatives and Senate to pass this important legislation during the 115th Congress.
The letter was signed by the leaders of the following associations (listed in alphabetical order):
A copy of the letter sent to Speaker Ryan, Leader McConnell, Democratic Leader Pelosi and Democratic Leader Schumercan be found here.
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