Welcome to MeriTalk News Briefs, where we bring you all the day’s action that didn’t quite make the headlines. No need to shout about ‘em, but we do feel that they merit talk.
White House Workers Council Secures Employment ‘Opportunity’ Pledges
The White House on Thursday formally announced creation of its National Council for the American Worker that will work on a national strategy for training and retraining workers needed by “high-demand industries.” In connection with that announcement, the White House said that 23 companies and trade groups had signed pledges to create “new opportunities over the next five years for American students and workers, including through apprenticeships and work-based learning, continuing education, on-the-job training, and reskilling.” Among tech-oriented organizations signing up to provide such opportunities were Lockheed Martin, Apple, IBM, Information Technology Industry Council, and the Internet Association. President Trump said that the number of such opportunity pledges was due to exceed four million by Thursday.
Congressional Innovation Fellowship Application Open
Applications are now open for the 2019 Congressional Innovation Fellowship. The fellowship is a year-long residency program on Capitol Hill, with an option for a one- month extension, that runs January to December each year. Fellows, who receive an $80,000 stipend, work directly with a member of Congress or a congressional committee and help brief members and staff about technology issues, research legislation, prepare for hearings or markups, and meet with stakeholder groups and build coalitions. Fellows are likely to work on a variety of technology-related issues, including emerging technologies, AI and automation, election security, data privacy, encryption, cybersecurity, or defense technology policy. While fellows have diverse backgrounds, individuals with a background in technology, technical skills, or currently working on technology law or tech public policy are encouraged to apply. Applications, which can be found here, are due in by Sept. 10, 2018.