CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 20, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dozens of technology executives met for a tech policy roundtable discussion here Monday, hosted by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), the North Carolina Technology Association(NCTA) and the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce.
This was the second gathering of the North Carolina TechVoice chapter. The roundtable featured insights from Congressman Patrick McHenry. Panelists included Natalie English, senior vice president of public policy, Charlotte Chamber of Commerce; Alan Fitzpatrick, NCTA; and Lamar Whitman, CompTIA. Moderators were Melanie Chernoff, public policy manager, Red Hat and Ron Culler, chief technology officer, Secure Designs Inc. Their participation highlighted the mission of the TechVoice Chapter – to empower and mobilize the grassroots tech community to impact legislative and regulatory issues important to growth, innovation and job creation.
"North Carolina is a magnet for high-tech and biotech job creation, making it vital for TechVoice to mobilize and activate on policy issues that advance the industry in the state and the nation," said Elizabeth Hyman, vice president, public advocacy, CompTIA.
"Events like this bring to light policy at the federal and state level impacting small and medium-sized technology firms. The policy issues discussed – immigration, tax reform, cybersecurity, JOBS Act, career and technical training – are truly the building blocks of innovation," said Congressman McHenry "I appreciate the opportunity to share my insights and efforts to bring meaningful reform to one of the country's most prominent high tech research and development centers. Together, we can achieve a fully vitalized economy that brings new innovations, products, businesses and jobs."
"The tech sector really encompasses everyone since all organizations use technology to optimize their performance," said Brooks Raiford, president and chief executive officer, NCTA. "We're grateful that Congressman McHenry participated in this TechVoice initiative and engaged with constituents."
"Influencing economic policy and maintaining a high quality of life for our citizens is our fundamental mission," said Natalie English of the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce. "We truly appreciate networking events and regional chapter meetings like this to discuss issues with national and local policy makers and build networks to advance our mission."
About Rep. Patrick McHenry
Congressman Patrick McHenry is serving his fifth term in Congress representing North Carolina's 10th District in western North Carolina.
About TechVoice
TechVoice is a partnership of CompTIA, the Technology Councils of North America (TECNA), and participating regional technology associations. Collectively, TechVoice represents thousands of technology companies employing millions of workers. Please visit www.techvoice.org.
About the North Carolina Technology Association
The North Carolina Technology Association (NCTA) is the statewide membership association for the tech sector. Contact 704.491.7922/919.856.0393 or www.nctechnology.org
About the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce
A not-for-profit organization owned and operated by business leaders who care about our community. Please visit www.charlottechamber.com.