“We are committed to addressing the needs of diverse constituencies by ensuring that all populations are afforded the opportunity to take advantage of the technology-based economic development in Northeast Ohio.”
Over the coming year, the Urban Technology and Inclusion Initiative will focus on two issues. First, the initiative will identify programs and processes for reducing health disparities in urban and minority communities that can be enhanced by the use of information technology. The focus will be on identifying technology applications that will improve service delivery and healthcare outcomes. Second, the initiative will identify and support the further development of successful technology apprenticeship programs for minority youth throughout Northeast Ohio. The emphasis will be on encouraging minority youth to gain experiences that will lead to further education and careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
Two NorTech board members have been identified to Co-chair the initiative including Daryl Laisure, Chief Executive Officer of ZIN Technologies Inc., and Thomas Strauss, President and Chief Executive Officer of Summa Health System. In addition, Andrew Banks, Chief Executive Officer of Mid-America Consulting Group has committed to helping lead the initiative.
This initiative will result in two working groups that will concentrate on one of the issue areas. Once a preliminary plan for each group is outlined, additional volunteers will be recruited from the NorTech Board, Technology Advisory Council, and the broader community
The negative effects of technology-generated productivity enhancements are often felt more acutely in some sectors of the population than others. Technological change can displace workers and create the need for new skills development. Northeast Ohio’s core urban areas have been particularly hard hit in recent years by these indirect forces of technological change.
Social isolation, disparities in income and educational opportunities, contribute to a “technological divide” for minorities on two fronts: a lack of access to the benefits afforded by new technologies, and a dearth of opportunities to participate in a meaningful way in the job market created by these technologies.
NorTech strongly believes that technology-based economic development is an important means of improving opportunities for our minority and urban communities. We recognize that access to technology alone is not the answer. Rather, access to technology creates opportunities to meet fundamental needs such as access to health care, education, training, and employment. We are committed to addressing the needs of diverse constituencies by ensuring that all populations are afforded the opportunity to take advantage of the technology-based economic development in Northeast Ohio. It is essential to the health of the region that the gains brought about by technological advances are shared by all.
For more information about how to participate in the Urban Technology and Inclusion initiative, contact Dr. Paula Gomez Farrell at (216) 363-6892.