Statement of Mayor de Blasio on President Obama's Tech Hire Challenge

March 9, 2015

"New York City is proud to rise to President Obama's nationwide Tech Hire challenge with our Tech Talent Pipeline initiative, and I applaud the President's call for more local governments across the country to equip their citizens with the skills and access they need for the technology jobs of the 21st century economy.

"Tech jobs offer a real pathway to the middle class for so many New Yorkers, especially those without a four-year degree, and talent is in demand as our growing businesses require more skilled workers. Working hand-in-hand with over 100 of New York City's leading companies, community partners, and educators, the NYC Tech Talent Pipeline will deliver homegrown talent for these quality jobs, and support the ascent of New York City as a global tech capital. NYC Tech Talent Pipeline programs are already expected to benefit 3,000 New Yorkers, with more to be unveiled in the coming months.

"Job growth continues to rise, but wages aren't following suit-so it's more important than ever to focus our workforce efforts on jobs that can lift our neighbors into the middle class. I share the President's commitment to connect and empower more people with the training they need for the employment that can change lives."